On 18-19 March, students from the U7+ alliance (including LSE) were selected to attend the NEXT Milan forum at the University of Bocconi. Paula González Vila who is currently studying for an MSc in International Social and Public Policy Research shares her experience and highlights what she learnt below ↓
Why did you decide to take part in the Milan Forum?
I remember reading about the opportunity to represent the LSE in a forum that was taking place in Milan and immediately googled all about the U7+ university alliance, and the amazing debates and talks that Bocconi, OECD and ISPI had organised. I knew I had to be there. This forum was the perfect opportunity to further my expertise and knowledge on the international debates around the policy-making process of measures regarding sustainable development, human rights, and gender equality.
How did you find this experience and what did you enjoy the most?
During the mornings there, before the events organised in the afternoon, we got together with various students from the U7+ alliance to meet lecturers from Bocconi and discuss problems that hinder global access to higher education. Meeting other representatives and young future leaders from universities from around the globe was truly inspiring. I enjoyed debating about policy proposals to alleviate this issue and how our universities can push governments to stop discriminating against some international students whose visas are denied due to ideological and racist reasons.
What is your main takeaway from attending?
Social change and welfare redistribution are possible, but only through the right public policies encouraged by the right leaders. I am determined to research to contribute to that, and the NEXT Milan Forum allowed me to see that we as students can push for that change from our universities.
What has been the most interesting and revealing part of this experience?
It would be naïve of me to believe that public policies can delete inequalities overnight, but it is undeniable that they can alleviate them. This opportunity allowed me to learn from inspiring young people, who also believe in the role that social policies play in encouraging positive change.
Why should future students take part in this opportunity?
I would 100% recommend any student interested in social policy and development to participate in upcoming forums representing the LSE. You will learn a lot about key issues in global sustainability, discover a new university and city, and make long-lasting connections with other young leaders from all over the world.
Photos ©Bocconi University and Paula Gonzales Vila