Carrying a shared vision

Choosing ISS 

When Anand Kole began searching for a place to pursue his academic career in development economics, his aunt’s stories of ISS were already part of his upbringing. ‘Since I was interested in pursuing my academic career in development economics, it was suggested by my family member to consider ISS as an option as well. Upon further research, I found the courses ISS provided to my liking more than any other universities. I also found the ISS courses were very much diverse and some exemplary work is being done at the institute.’ 

Memories passed down 

Anand grew up hearing from his aunt, Jyoti Patil, that ISS was ‘a place to be for anybody in the development sector.’ He also learned more about the faculty and ISS’ dynamic environment: ' She emphasized the reputation of ISS in the international arena, which helped students land interesting jobs after their Masters.’ 

Jyoti herself studied in a former programme, Rural Livelihoods and Global Change, graduating in 2008. She recalls ISS as ‘a space alive with dreams and aspirations of people from different cultures, age groups and backgrounds; all passionate about changing the world, curious and enthusiastic. Everyone at the institute was warm, understanding, loving and caring. The space was lively – someone playing guitar, someone telling stories.’ 

Two journeys, one vision 

When Anand chose ISS, Jyoti was delighted: ‘I was thoroughly excited when my nephew chose ISS and got the admission. I knew he was headed for a life-changing experience, not just academically but socially and culturally.’ 

For Anand, that experience has echoed many of the qualities Jyoti described. ‘The experience has been quite the same, but in a different era with diverse visions and problems. The transition of ISS from a research institute for mid-work professionals to a recent graduate based cohort has altered the approaches of the institute and professors. However, it has upheld values of diversity and inclusion, making academia more receptable of everyone.’ 

He adds: ‘The flexibility was a first-hand experience for me, in multiple occasions, from getting a last-minute scholarship to attending extra courses. The professors are very approachable and it is always an interesting conversation on varied topics with them.’ 

Continuing the conversation 

Though Jyoti has not returned to ISS since her graduation, she recognizes herself in Anand’s experience. ‘We discuss development issues; share papers and often have animated conversations regarding sustainable development.’ 

Across generations, both nephew and aunt carry forward the same sense of connection and purpose that first drew them to ISS – a commitment to curiosity, diversity and rethinking development.