As an institution dedicated to developing highly competent public servants, KDI School takes pride in producing competitive students and public servants who can confidently face the challenges of the modern world. We interviewed two of our outstanding alumni who recently got into a doctoral program and a postdoctoral research position at two of the world's leading academic institutions. Below is a snapshot of our interview:

Rony Rodrigo Maximiliano Rodriguez-Ramirez (2016 MDP | Nicaragua)

Can you please introduce yourself and your background to our readers?

Hello, my name is Rony, and I am from Nicaragua. In 2016, I joined KDI School to pursue a master’s degree in development policy under the Korean Government Scholarship Program. And currently I am taking my doctorate degree in Education Policy and Program Evaluation and Economics at Harvard University.

What are some of the experiences and challenges you've faced that you think have prepared you for this opportunity?

Throughout my academic journey, I faced a lot of challenges and hardships. Moving to Korea to study at KDI School was a big cultural adjustment, but it also taught me the importance of adapting to new environments and learning from different perspectives. I am blessed to have some mentors and a support system who helped me overcome these challenges.

Congratulations again on your Ph.D. scholarship! Can you share with us how KDI School has influenced your career path specifically in getting this scholarship?

I believe that KDI School has had a significant influence on my career path as it helped me develop interest in development economics and education policy. The school provided me with rigorous academic training, exposure to a diverse range of perspectives, and opportunities which was key for me to have the opportunity to join the World Bank, and now be accepted to Harvard University.

What advice do you have for current KDIS students aspiring to follow a similar academic path?

My advice for current KDIS students would be to take advantage of the many opportunities available at the school, including engaging with faculty and other students, attending seminars and workshops, and participating in extracurricular activities. Follow the structure of your master’s program, and take the required courses, then start exploring those courses that are related to your research interests. And, of course, enjoy your stay in Korea. 

Souleymane Yameogo (2021 PP | Burkina Faso)

Can you please introduce yourself and your background to our readers?

Hello, my name is Piiga, and I finished my Masters in Public Policy at KDIS and just recently my PhD in Public Policy also at KDI School. Currently I am here in the UK at the University of Glasgow, where I recently got a research associate post in Democratic Politics.

What was your motivation in deciding to study at KDIS? What are some of the hardships and challenges that you encountered on your academic journey?

The first thing that Led me to study in Korea was because, when I was in my country, I had a Korean professor, who advised me and told me that Korea is the best place for me to learn about my interest in promoting democracy, specifically at KDI since it worked to develop Korea into a progressive country. One of the difficult things was the communication barrier and the challenge to be better at English communication. Writing papers usually took time, and I had to do things ahead and work early to polish my papers. I asked for help from Prof. Plumb in reviewing my papers, read the dictionary, and even Listened to Ted Talks to improve my English skills.

What motivated your application for a postdoctoral role at a leading int'l institution, and how did your KDIS education prepare you for and contribute to securing the position?

Since my specialization is political economy, I want to become an expert in my field - so the goal was to go to one of the best institutions in the west, and I learned that from my KDIS professors. Through KDIS who taught me research skills, I was able to publish papers which I think was pivotal in my acceptance to the post-doctoral post.

What message would you like to share with students aspiring to be successful academically and in life?

Be patient. Be very patient building skills and competence, because when you want something, it takes time to get it. Know that the journey to success is tough, and there are a lot of sacrifices to make but in the end, it will all be worth it.