My BEST Scholarship year at Harvard Kennedy School

Focused on education through travel - the BUNAC Education Scholarship Trust (BEST) was created 35+ years ago to help UK students and graduates to undertake postgraduate study in the USA and Canada. Here's scholarship awardee, Peter, on his year studying at Harvard.

What did you study and how did it shape your goals?

I had a tremendous year studying a Masters of Public Administration at Harvard Kennedy School and gaining a better understanding of American society with the support of BUNAC. I focused my studies on economic development, energy and climate change policies in developing countries – which is an area I would like to continue working in in the future. At school and in university-led trips to the Middle East and Africa, I had opportunities to discuss politics and policy challenges of delivering economic development and responding to climate change with the most senior members of government.

What skills did you develop studying in America?

I studied adaptive leadership, enabling me to better understand the psychological and social dynamics that affect mobilisation of groups, and gained a better understanding of my own values and approach to influencing people. I also took classes on negotiation, which gave me training in how to engage large groups diverse, opposing interests and objectives. I am convinced that my studies have prepared me to be a more effective policymaker in the future.

What were the highlights of your year in the US?

Throughout the year I had countless opportunities to meet with and learn from people passionate about effecting a positive impact in society, whether in the USA or around the world. I have also greatly expanded my own understanding of American culture and society through discussions of the 2024 Presidential election and travelling to different parts of the USA. Highlights were attending Climate Week in New York, exploring national parks in California, and listening to jazz in New Orleans.

Looking to get financial support to study overseas? Applications for BEST Scholarship funding close on the 14 March '25. Find out more and apply over at our JENZA Travel Group scholarship page here.