Global Student Community

Australia

“My research centers on economic mobility and inequality. Using big data and advanced empirical methods, I want to improve mobility measurement by race, gender, and place, identify key determinants, and inform tractable policy solutions.”

Bhutan

“I want to be part of Bhutan’s growth story as it undergoes economic and governance transformation, and His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s dynamic leadership and vision inspires me. I hope to leverage my Harvard Kennedy School network and education to Bhutan’s advantage. How can Bhutan play a role in a world full of uncertainty, volatility, and inequality by being an ambassador of peace and happiness?”

Canada 

“Mental illness and addiction are at the heart of some of our societies’ most vexing challenges. We can change lives by better informing our communities, enacting more inclusive policies, and harnessing potential. I’m at HKS to be at the forefront with compassion, humility, and personal understanding.” 

Democratic republic of congo

“My country is once again at a pivotal point in its history. As the world decarbonizes, the Democratic Republic of Congo is in a unique position to develop as well as to help the world with its natural resources. I am at HKS to acquire the expertise needed to break down walls that have held us back and empower my people so we can move our country forward.”

Denmark

“I want to be part of shaping a new kind of capitalism where we’re much better at measuring the things that matter for the wellbeing of our society and planet.”

Iraq

“'Why is there inequality between girls and boys?' was a question I often asked myself as a child. 

Growing up in poverty in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, I was surrounded by fear of “honor-killing” in the aftermath of Saddam Hussein’s regime. This experience, among many others, led me to work at international organizations where I could respond to and help prevent gender-based violence. It was my late mother, Rwkhosh Ali, who inspired me the most to take on this fight. She was a teacher, an author, and a fighter and advocate for women’s rights, including her own. I came to HKS to improve my leadership, negotiation, and strategy skills to equip myself for the long battle against inequality in the world.” 

Mexico

“My early exposure to terrible living conditions in a rural Mexican community highlighted the vast disparities of wealth and opportunity in my country. This experience paired with my own modest upbringing ignited in me the need to confront systemic imbalances. I questioned why regions like Latin America—rich in natural resources and culture—grapple with deeply rooted inequality, poverty, and societal challenges.  

I came to HKS to reimagine equitable growth that enhances the natural world and translates into freedom for individuals. I envision a world where economic prosperity alleviates poverty, fosters a strong middle class, and helps the world transition to a decarbonized future. My goal is to collaborate across sectors, crafting policies that address climate justice inequalities and pioneer sustainable solutions.”

Morocco

“I am committed to delving into subjects like network economics, decentralized collective action, and social infrastructure investment policies at HKS. Through a deep understanding of these intricacies, my focus is to influence fiscal and monetary policies to foster economic resilience as well as pave the way for a more equitable future for all.”

Zimbabwe 

“As a Zimbabwean, I have seen the impact of poverty-related issues on all aspects of life, especially for women and girls. I want to leave HKS with the tools to design effective programs that address the most pressing concerns for the most vulnerable people while maintaining their dignity.”