ISS is a supportive community where students benefit from strong faculty engagement.
Karin Hanada (Japan)
MA in Development Studies
Name: Karin Hanada
Country: Japan
Background: After graduating with my bachelor’s degree, I worked for a Japanese IT company, managing mobile base station projects and later promoting overseas business in the international division. I also led a JICA project supporting African students in Japan through internships and career development. These experiences deepened my understanding of international development and motivated me to study at ISS.
Why study abroad?
To deepen my knowledge of development studies, I believe it's essential to observe countries from an international perspective and conduct multifaceted analyses. Firsthand experience abroad and engaging with diverse perspectives is invaluable for understanding development challenges and designing practical policies.
In today’s world, access to information online has become easier than ever. However, this is why gaining firsthand experience in an international setting and directly engaging with people from diverse background is invaluable opportunity that cannot be replicated through digital means. By exchanging ideas with people from different cultural and ideological backgrounds, I aim to enhance my understanding of development challenges and cultivate the ability to design and implement practical policies. This process, I believe, will significantly contribute to my personal and professional growth.
Why ISS?
The ISS curriculum integrates economics, political science, and environmental studies, progressing from foundational to specialized knowledge. ISS also offers a diverse, multicultural environment that encourages dialogue and practical understanding of development. Its location in The Hague connects students to international organizations and real-world policy discussions. ISS offers a multicultural and intellectually stimulating environment where theory and practice are integrated. The supportive academic community and strong faculty engagement ensure a well-rounded research experience.
Would you recommend ISS to your friends?
Yes, I would recommend ISS to those interested in development studies, as it offers a comprehensive and dynamic learning environment. Students not only learn the theoretical foundations of policy formation but also develop practical skills through real-world case studies. Engaging with students from diverse backgrounds provides valuable opportunities to examine development issues from multiple perspectives. Professors actively involved in policymaking and addressing critical social issues offer students the chance to engage in insightful discussions and gain practical insights.