MA International Political Economy Personal Purpose

Amidst a swirling world of diverse cultures and economies, a focused editor works diligently on her laptop, embodying the essence of international political economy.

As a young boy in St. Petersburg, within the Soviet Union and behind the Iron Curtain, my father and I would secretly gather around an AM radio, listening to the Voice of America—our only link to the outside world. Reflecting on those times now, as I read publications like the Economist, Foreign Affairs, or the Herald Tribune, I feel fortunate to have gained a perspective that included the other side of the Curtain. During my early university years, I wondered if my American classmates, steeped in consumeristic Western ideals, could truly comprehend the depth of Rousseau's thoughts or the significance of Locke's ideas. For them, socialism was just a concept to be tested on, while for me, it was my heritage and roots.

When the Soviet Union and the Iron Curtain eventually fell, my family and I emigrated to the United States. This was a complete cultural transformation, immersing me in the renaissance of ideas I had only heard through the crackle of the AM radio. Here, individualism, democracy, and the full spectrum of Western values were real. Later, we briefly returned to a transformed Russia, lived in Cyprus, and then Israel, making me fluent in three languages and learning a fourth. These experiences have broadened my worldview through my work with an IBC. Indeed, my role as an export manager has taken me across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.

While my career as an export manager has provided financial security for my family and me, I feel I have reached the limits of my current role and am eager to pursue studies in International Political Economy. I am particularly interested in expanding my understanding of international law and politics, with a strong focus on human rights and development. The IPE program is dynamic and wide-ranging, covering many subjects. My bachelor's degree in government, diplomacy, and strategy with a focus on International Affairs and Middle East Politics shares this multidisciplinary approach. It covered all aspects of international affairs, including an overview of the history of international relations, international political economy, conflict resolution, international law, and both micro and macroeconomics.

Attending LSE's summer school for two months has been a preview of the high-quality educational experience I anticipate. While taking courses in English Law and World Politics, I was impressed by the LSE professors' approach to learning. More than that, the atmosphere was one of seriousness about the academic process, evident in my interactions with professors, attendance at seminars, and participation in extracurricular activities. Additionally, London is an incredible city. I am excited to immerse myself once more in a new and stimulating culture, this time in London. What better place to study IPE than in a city that embodies the spirit of the EU and is a hub of Britain's political scene?

My academic goal is to complete my IPE MSc in one year, deepening my understanding of the history and development of contemporary political economy, various approaches to international political economy, and the political economy of international trade.

In the future, I hope to become a political officer at the UN or hold a managerial position within an NGO, contributing to the efforts for peace. Either path would allow me to act as an agent of change in human rights and international conflict resolution. My life experiences across four continents, combined with my multilingual abilities, have enabled me to effectively engage with people from diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and societal levels. The IPE program's multidisciplinary academic foundation is complemented by my life experiences.

I am eager to develop myself as a creative leader in human rights and conflict resolution. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to a personal interview.

MA International Political Economy Personal Purpose Editor