Name: Ristyanadya Laksmi Gupita
Programme: Master of Public Policy (MPP), Class of 2023
Nationality: Indonesia
Congratulations on your recent graduation from the LSE Master of Public Policy (MPP) programme! How does it feel to be a MPP graduate?
It feels truly amazing! Graduating from the MPP program has established a profound sense of empowerment.
As throughout my time in the program, I did not only gain a comprehensive understanding of policy-making but also broadened my knowledge about the intricacies of the world.
This accomplishment feels like a significant milestone in my personal and academic journey, equipping me with the skills and insights necessary to contribute meaningfully to the field of public policy.
What have been your key takeaways from your studies and how are you applying these in your future plans?
Through my experience in the MPP Programme, I learnt the necessity of approaching policy-making from a multidisciplinary standpoint. I learnt that relying solely on one discipline is insufficient; instead, we must discern the advantages, opportunities, and potential pitfalls that lie on various facets of a given policy issue.
Consequently, I aspire to integrate this multifaceted perspective that I have acquired to ensure a more comprehensive and effective policy approach in addressing complex challenges.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and your motivation for your studies?
I pursued my undergraduate studies in International Relations in Indonesia, setting the foundation for my career. Subsequently, I embarked on a professional journey as an Assistant to the Special Advisor of the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, where I had the invaluable opportunity to witness and contribute to the policy-making process, particularly during challenging times like the pandemic.
Following this, I assumed the role of Project Manager for Research and Data within the Digital Literacy Program. In this capacity, my primary responsibility was to devise strategic approaches aimed at educating a substantial segment of the Indonesian population, with the ambitious target of reaching at least 50 million citizens by 2024.
These cumulative experiences served as a driving force behind my decision to pursue a Master of Public Policy program. I recognized the need to enhance my knowledge and skills in order to engage in more effective and comprehensive policy-making, particularly in the dynamic and complex landscape of today's fast-paced moving world.
Why did you choose to study the MPP programme at LSE School of Public Policy?
The MPP program was designed to provide a concise yet all-encompassing respite from the professional world, spanning just nine months. Furthermore, it stands out for its diverse array of disciplinary modules, offering a multifaceted approach that allows us to explore public policy from a rich and comprehensive perspective. Other than that, the reputation of LSE School of Public Policy also became one of the main contributing factors in choosing this programme.
Were there any standout modules from your studies?
Absolutely! Among the core modules, PP415 (Technology, Data Science, and Policy) stands out as my personal favourite. This module showed me the fact that technology is reshaping our world at an astonishing pace, while regulation often struggles to keep up.
This dynamic particularly resonates with the ongoing advancements in technologies like AI, highlighting the urgent need for both society and regulators to swiftly adapt.
Additionally, I opted for Policy Paper as my elective module. Doing this module can be quite challenging, but I unexpectedly found myself developing a profound affection for research during this project.
Can you tell us any more about your MPP Public Policy Applications project?
The Public Policy Applications project has been an immensely enlightening experience in my life. Through this project, I gained valuable insights into the intricacies of collaborating with other stakeholders while addressing complex issues. It provided a platform for us to translate our theories, knowledge, and practical experiences into meaningful solutions for the challenges we encountered. This journey has truly been a transformative one.
How did you make the most of being a part of the LSE community during your studies? What are your highlights from your time with your classmates?
My time at LSE was truly enriched by the close-knit and supportive community I became a part of. I made the most of this experience by forging deep connections with both my peers and faculty members.
We gathered for study sessions that turned into profound discussions, pooling our diverse perspectives to unravel complex topics. The sense of global friendship extended beyond the classroom, we regularly shared cultural experiences through global dinners, hangouts, and celebrated each other's achievements.
The accessibility and willingness of the staff to assist and mentor us were equally instrumental. Whether seeking academic guidance or career advice, they were always there, offering invaluable insights that helped shape my educational and professional journey.
This collaborative spirit, nurtured by friends, colleagues, and staff, defined my LSE experience, making it an unforgettable chapter in my life.
Who would you recommend the programme to? What advice would you give to people who are considering studying the MPP?
I would recommend this programme to everyone who not only wants to learn about policy-making in the world but also wants to meet the most diverse and amazing cohort from across the globe. MPP has been one of the best nine months of my life. Going thousand miles from Indonesia to London has been the best decision that I took.
Do you have any practical advice or tips for our new MPP students?
Certainly! As you embark on your MPP journey, here are some practical tips to make the most of your experience:
- Stay Organised: With a very busy and hectic year, time management is key.
- Engage with your peers and colleagues. Share ideas, study together, and learn from each other's experiences.
- Don't hesitate to reach out to your professors, TAs and faculty members. They are there to help you succeed and can provide valuable guidance and mentorship.
- Enjoy your time in London with your friends! Take a break from studying once in a while.
- Attend seminars, workshops, and conferences. It’ll broaden your knowledge, and SPP holds a lot of conferences and workshops throughout the year.
- Enjoy the Journey: Lastly, remember that learning is a lifelong journey. Embrace the opportunity to expand your knowledge, and don't forget to have fun along the way. Your time at LSE will be as much about personal growth and exploration as it is about academics
Best of luck with your MPP studies, and make the most of this exciting chapter in your life!
How would you describe your SPP experience in three words?
Invigorating, Empowering, Enlightening
Gupita is happy to connect with SPP students and applicants via Linkedin