David Chipanta (Zambia) 

Master in Public Administration / International Development (2005)

Why I chose KSG:

I chose the Kennedy School of Government because of its application of rigorous quantitative and qualitative analysis to current public policy challenges that confront developing countries. .

My former roommate, Roberta an American Harvard alumnus was instrumental in introducing me to the KSG. She and her family have assisted me in attaining a Bachelors degree in Economics and getting to Harvard. They supported me for 5 years in my education. I also worked very hard on different types of formal and informal jobs.

From the time my initial application into the Masters in Public Administration and International Development (MPA/ID) program was rejected in 1999 because I did not have a Bachelor's degree then, I knew that Harvard was the place for me. I rolled up my sleeves and went to work to fulfill the requirements of the program.

Armed everyday for 4 years with the MPA/ID admission requirements and plenty of faith and resilience I ploughed through Calculus, Geology, Economics, etc and eventually attained a BA in Economics from San Diego State University with distinctions . I then applied to KSG. Harvard finally said I was ready to join all the very bright and capable people from the world in the MPA/ID program.

I often pinch myself that I am actually walking through the brown bricks of one of the world top schools considering that I come from a very modest family with very little prospects to reach as far as I have.

My needs as an African:

Ever since I have been at Harvard I have never regretted. I have ploughed through some very difficult but necessary classes. The endless support and companion from friends whose eyes to me have been color blind has been simply unmatched.

Now I have a match more solid understanding of development challenges facing the world . My skills in quantitative and qualitative analysis, consensus building, strategic planning and management are transferable to almost any development field. If there is any place in world one would like to learn development from, the Kennedy School of Government is simply the best place.

To my fellow Africans:

Even if one comes from a humble background like me, there is space for focused determination, faith and resilience at the Kennedy School of Government. Good luck to fellow Africans applying to the school. You have made one of your best decisions in life.

Africa needs us all!!