By Maleni Palacios MPP 2027
So you’re thinking about a master’s degree—maybe even one at Harvard Kennedy School. Whether you’re comparing a few different programs or just starting to explore the idea, you’ve probably wondering whether this is the right next step for you. I’m here to tell you that if the thought keeps coming back, it’s worth exploring thoughtfully.
You might be thinking, “But Maleni, where do I even start? I’ve been in my job for the last 10 years.” Or maybe you’ve only been working a few years and are thinking about making a career pivot. Whatever your situation, this blog should provide you with some tips for approaching your graduate school search.
Research schools and programs
Start by thinking about where you want to be, physically and professionally. Is it the west coast, the east coast, or somewhere outside the United States? For me, I knew very specifically that I wanted to be involved in federal domestic policy. Where better to do that than Washington, D.C.? That’s why it was important for me to focus on programs on the east coast. I was also looking for schools that offered combined MBA/MPP programs because that combination aligned with my long-term goals. Schools that offered one but not the other were easy no’s for me.
I also paid close attention to financial aid opportunities. At HKS, for example, I was excited to learn about fellowship opportunities through the Center for Public Leadership. Every school has different funding options, timelines, and resources available to students, so it’s important to do your research. Think carefully about what kind of program makes sense for your goals. Maybe a one-year program is the right fit for you. Maybe it’s a two-year program. Maybe you want a combined degree. The more clarity you have on what you’re looking for, the easier it becomes to narrow your list.
Start studying for the GRE or GMAT—or at least make a plan
In my opinion, this is the least fun part of applying to graduate school. That said, it’s a necessary hurdle, and getting it out of the way early can make the rest of the application process much easier. Once testing is behind you, you can focus your energy on essays, applications, and securing strong letters of recommendation. Take some time to research which exam best fits your learning style and test-taking strengths. Then, make a plan.
For me, that meant creating a rigorous three-month study schedule where I dedicated a few hours every day to prepare. My goal was simple: test well and be done with it. That approach worked for me, but your plan may look different. The important thing is to decide on a strategy and stick to it.
“Every school has different funding options, timelines, and resources available to students, so it’s important to do your research. Think carefully about what kind of program makes sense for your goals.”
Talk to alumni and current students
There is only so much you can learn from a school’s website. Summer is a great time to connect with alumni who are doing the kind of work you’re interested in. You may want to ask alums for informal coffee chats and discuss why they chose their program, what their favorite classes were, and what opportunities made the biggest difference in their experience.
I would also encourage you to talk with current students. They’re often in the best position to tell you what surprised them, what they wish they had known before applying, and what life is actually like on campus. These conversations helped me tremendously. They gave me a much clearer picture of what each program offered beyond the brochures and rankings, and presented me with a more accurate picture of the student experience.
Ask yourself why you want to go to graduate school
I’ve just walked through a few practical to-dos, but this is the most important one. Spend some time this summer thinking deeply about why graduate school—and why now? What do you hope this degree will help you accomplish? Are you trying to switch careers, build a new skillset, expand your network, or position yourself for leadership? Would you be willing to take out loans, move to a new city, and put your life on pause for a year or two?
Whether it’s through journaling, long walks, or conversations with your partner, family, or best friend, these are questions you’ll eventually need clear answers to. The application process—and especially the essays—will ask you to articulate your motivations. Start thinking about them now while the stakes are low.
Give yourself grace
For many of you, graduate school would be a significant life change. Maybe it’s been years since you’ve been in a classroom. Maybe the idea of moving to a new city feels intimidating. Maybe you’re worried about whether you’re qualified enough to apply.
Don’t talk yourself out of the opportunity before you’ve even given yourself a chance. Know that it is possible, and remember that people from all kinds of backgrounds make this leap every year. The key is being intentional about why you want it and creating a plan to get there.
Give yourself grace and allow the summer to be a season of exploration. You don’t need to have every answer today. You just need to be curious enough to take the first step. We’ll be here when you’re ready to make the leap.
Master’s Degree Programs
The master’s degree programs at Harvard Kennedy School are designed to equip you with the essential skills to shape public policy, champion impactful ideas, and elevate your leadership potential.
