Nora, International Consultant at the UN DESA, New-York

I believe intellectual curiosity and an unwavering determination to make a meaningful impact on the world were what contributed to my success at PSIA. The rich academic environment, combined with opportunities to deeply engage with the diverse perspectives of high-level speakers, professors, and fellow students nurtured a mindset that values both analytical rigour and empathetic engagement, which I believe are essential skills for navigating the complex challenges of international affairs and diplomacy. 

Whether through my involvement in initiatives like Model United Nations, Junior Diplomat Initiative, and Sciences Po Environnement, I continually sought out opportunities to challenge my understanding and broaden my horizons. This openness to dialogue and relentless pursuit of knowledge not only enriched my academic experience, but also laid a strong foundation for my current role at the United Nations, where I strive to apply these skills in bringing together experts and decision-makers to address complex sustainable development issues globally.

These experiences and skills I learned at PSIA also influenced my role as a finalist in the Women@Dior program, where I co-founded an initiative for women’s education and leadership through a partnership with Christian Dior Couture and UNESCO. 

My time at PSIA was a period of profound growth, both personally and professionally. The intellectual stimulation, innovative learning environment, and exposure to global thought leaders were invaluable in shaping my career path. Graduating cum laude in International Public Management was a testament to the rigorous academic training I received, but it was the practical experiences - from presenting on the protection of intangible cultural heritage to analyzing the development of the Gulf monarchies and engaging with world leaders - that truly prepared me for my current role at the United Nations Secretariat.

Courses like the one on cultural diplomacy with former UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova and the countless opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogues with decision-makers and practitioners at PSIA had a profound impact, inspiring me to pursue a career that bridges academia and practice. My involvement in debates on global conflicts, coupled with my internship experience advising the Canadian Minister of International Development on policy, equipped me with a deep understanding of global governance and sustainable development. PSIA's environment of dialogue and innovation continues to inspire my contributions as an international guest speaker and board member today.

At our graduation ceremony, Michelle Bachelet shared words that have stayed with me: “A life built with the others in mind, grounded in our common humanity, is one truly worth fighting for”. As we stand at a critical juncture for the world, my advice to current and future PSIA students is to embrace this philosophy. The strength of PSIA lies in its community - diverse, driven, and dedicated to solving the world’s most pressing challenges. Engage fully with your peers, learn to build bridges rather than walls, and leverage the PSIA community to broaden your perspectives and develop the skills needed to address these interconnected and global issues.

The relationships and networks you build here will be invaluable in your future endeavours, just as they have been in mine. Whether through academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, or professional experiences, seize every opportunity to learn, grow, and ask questions. Remember, the impact we can have as individuals is magnified when we work together with a shared sense of purpose and responsibility.