Five days ago, I arrived in Boston with my life packed up in three bags, and thanks to Amazon, I had a mattress, sheets and towels waiting for me in the lobby of my student housing. After moving every year for the past 6 years (Atlanta, San Francisco, Nairobi, Bogota, NYC x2), it thankfully does not take me long to feel settled in a new place.

Within the first hour of arriving, I excitedly walked over to the Harvard Kennedy School building, where I will be spending much of the next two years completing a Master in Public Policy.

Through this program, I will take classes in economics, statistics, political science, leadership and management, and other economic development courses. I will have the privilege to meet former presidents, prime ministers, business leaders, diplomats from around the world. I will get the opportunity to learn about and discuss immigration, healthcare, education and other global issues. I will strengthen my voice and leadership skills. I will make friends with future global leaders, all “asking what they can do.”

I am determined to make the most of this incredible time, because it is an honor and privilege to be here. I worked hard to get here, and I am ready to work even harder while I am here. I will continue to challenge and grow myself  into the best person I can be – mentally, emotionally and physically.

I look forward to sharing what I learn through this 2-year program and from this new chapter in Boston!