Name: Yuliia Dziuba
Programme and year: MPP Class of 2024
Nationality: Ukrainian
Can you tell us about your background and why you chose to study the MPP programme at SPP?
I am a Ukrainian policymaker with over five years of experience in the public sector. My career began in the private sector, but in 2019, I transitioned to the Parliament of Ukraine, where I currently serve as a parliamentary assistant and advisor to the Chairperson of the Ukrainian delegation to the Council of Europe.
I chose to study the MPP programme at LSE because it represented a crucial step in advancing my career as a policymaker and helping my country. Meeting with MPP graduates solidified my belief that this unique experience would not only foster my professional growth, but also expand my international network and explore new opportunities.
What have been some of your takeaways from your studies? How do you plan to use these in your future career?
The main takeaway from my studies is the importance of persistence and resilience. It's crucial to explore opportunities, even when they seem daunting, and to embrace rejection or setbacks as part of a long-term strategy. I plan to use these lessons in my future career to navigate challenges and seize opportunities for positive change.
What makes you feel #partoflse?
I feel #partoflse because of the supportive environment that encourages reaching out to professors and alumni. The willingness of everyone to offer advice, mentorship, or even a casual conversation over tea creates a welcoming community. My alumni mentor and a professor, who became my career advisor, have been invaluable in guiding my professional development.
What are your favourite memories of student life at SPP?
One of my favourite memories is the Welcome Week, where I first met my classmates, professors, and the MPP team. The excitement of starting the journey together and the warm reception we received set a positive tone for the next nine months.
What’s the best thing about being a SPP student?
The best aspect of being an SPP student is having colleagues and friends from all over the world. We share our achievements, insights, and ideas, which helps us shape policies in our respective countries and stay connected even after graduation.
Who should study the MPP?
The MPP programme is ideal for policymakers who aspire to make a real impact locally, nationally, and globally. It suits those who are ready to share their experiences, embrace new ideas, and collaborate intensively while studying hard.
What advice would you give to anyone who is considering studying the MPP?
Ensure you have enough time in your schedule to fully engage with the course and participate in additional events and activities. This holistic involvement will enrich your learning experience.
What are your plans and ambitions after graduation?
My mission is clear: to continue my journey as a policymaker and help Ukraine while expanding my international profile. I aim to use the skills and knowledge gained to effect positive changes in policy across Europe and beyond.
How was your experience of your policy application project and the MPP symposium?
The policy application project and MPP symposium were both exciting and challenging. I worked with colleagues from the USA and Yemen on integrating post-war Ukraine into European economic value chains. Our diverse perspectives led to innovative policy recommendations, which we presented to the IMF, receiving positive feedback and future research ideas.
What skills do you think future policy leaders need?
Future policy leaders need to be creative, adaptable, open-minded, and continuous learners. They should leverage new technologies to create effective policies in an era of instability and uncertainty, always considering who is missing from the table.
Do you have any practical advice for our offer holders who are preparing to join us in September?
Start reading relevant materials and books now to save time later and cover more information. Also, enjoy your summer, as the next nine months will be very busy!
Where is your favourite place in London?
Greenwich Park and the Cutty Sark area are my favourite spots. This charming landscape offers a beautiful view of London from its highest hill and features the world-famous Royal Observatory, marking the Greenwich Prime Meridian.
Where is your favourite place on or near campus?
The coffee shop in the Saw Swee Hock Student Centre is my favourite place on campus. It’s perfect for enjoying a morning coffee, chatting with friends, or preparing for seminars.
Can you describe your SPP experience in three words?
Future-oriented. Innovative. Transformative.
Yuliia is happy to connect on LinkedIn.
Watch Yuliia's video on her Graduation Day reflections: