Why did you choose LSE, and why did you choose your programme of study?
I had the chance to participate in a Dual Degree program. I began my first year at the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin and then I joined LSE for the second year. This gave me the opportunity to study in two specifically relevant places. Ultimately, LSE was my number one choice because of its outstanding reputation, the variety of study options and the great link between theory and actual practice of policy-making.
Overall, how do you look back on your LSE experience?
LSE is an experience of its own. The academic environment is of course a particular experience with great teachers, small classes and the facilities on campus. But there was more, that really contributed to my learning experience: first of all, the cohort of fellow students from all around the world which enables you to learn more through extensive debates, the LSE events and guest lectures from noble price winners to current politicians, and the spirit of the school which goes beyond individual subjects and connects different fields.
Please describe your career path to date:
My program taught me to think interdisciplinary and that was ultimately what happened to my career afterwards. I moved from a research institute on development policy to the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs – completely different policy issues which require a similar set of skills that I learned at LSE. Additionally, my previous political volunteering activities – which I also pursued at LSE – were also a big factor in my new job. What I can say from my experience: the academic and theoretical background is a sine qua non, but being interested in your field and engaged beyond your class room is what makes a difference.
Why did you choose your current job?
Despite the perception of public service, it is the field where I find myself able to achieve the most for our common good. Hence, I wanted to move back to the political side of policy-making, where you really put into practice thinking about policy solutions with actually getting things done.
Tell us about your current job:
After I spent three years in the policy planning unit of the Ministry in Berlin, I was offered to work for one of the Parliamentary State Secretaries. In the German bureaucracy this is somewhat of a Vice Minister which is especially responsible for getting policy proposals through the parliament. Hence, I attend committee meetings or negotiations with members of parliament about certain policy proposals. I keep contact to MPs and political groups in the Parliament on the staff level and organize the daily routine of the office. This requires to be knowledgeable about a variety of issues as you often jump from one topic to another, handling a lot of communication both with the ministry and the parliamentary sphere and organizing a safe and happy working place within the office.
What advice do you have for LSE students who are looking to enter a similar profession to you?
If you care for policy: get engaged, whether in a student-run think tank, an NGO or a political party. Having more than your single academic view on an issue is relevant. Because politics and political processes matter and they can only be understood if you experienced them firsthand.