By Ivan Melchor MPP 2027
Growing up first-generation in a Latino community in North Carolina, I witnessed family members and friends jump through hoops to afford basic health and education services. Later, as a legal assistant at a legal aid organization, I worked with families navigating complex processes to address Medicaid denials, tax credit eligibility, and rental assistance.
Because of these experiences, I knew I wanted to work on maximizing participation in social benefit programs, and just as importantly, I wanted to improve benefits service delivery so that families would not have to endure unnecessary hardships to live with dignity.
With this goal in mind, I determined that earning a Master in Public Policy would be the best way to pursue my objectives. I began saving up money to try and make graduate school affordable, but as the deadline for applications approached, I became increasingly nervous that I might not be able to afford the high cost of education.
Around this time last year, I visited my mom and updated her on my graduate school applications. As I shared my worries, she paused and asked if I was going to apply to Harvard. I remember explaining to her that Harvard Kennedy School didn’t offer many full-scholarships. At the time, I had imposter syndrome, and the idea that I would be competitive for a full scholarship seemed far-fetched.
“Through the Center for Public Leadership, I’ve had the chance to develop friendships with an incredible group of people who all have inspiring stories and are committed to public service.”
Despite my self-doubt, my mom insisted that I apply. I remember her saying, “Why couldn’t you get a scholarship? You’ve already accomplished so much.” Motivated by her encouragement, I applied for admission and began working on the financial aid application in November.
It was during this time that I learned about the Center for Public Leadership’s fellowships. If awarded one of the fellowships, I would be able to attend HKS through a scholarship that would cover the cost of tuition. I felt that the fellowship’s focus on supporting students interested in reducing disparities in the Latino community in the United States aligned with my lived and professional experiences.
I was in shock when I was offered a spot in the 2025 fellowship cohort. I almost didn’t apply, but I’m so glad I did. As I write this, I am finishing my first semester in the MPP Program at the Harvard Kennedy School. Through the Center for Public Leadership, I’ve had the chance to develop friendships with an incredible group of people who all have inspiring stories and are committed to public service. At the same time, I’ve already had the chance to benefit from courses and research assistant opportunities that align with my career objectives. I hope my story can serve as a message that even if you are doubting yourself, you should at least try and apply.
