"ISS offers a deep understanding of today's societal challenges and helps us gain fresh perspectives."
Melisa Try Hatmanti (Indonesia)
MA in Development Studies
Name: Melisa Try Hatmanti
Major: Social Policy for Development
Country: Indonesia
Background: I have a background in economics for my undergraduate degree. Before coming to ISS, I worked at the USAID (United States Agency for International Development) as a Research Assistant for about two years.
Why study abroad?
Studying abroad has been a game-changer for me. It opens the door to countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. During my bachelor's degree, I went on an exchange program and had an amazing time. From meeting people with diverse backgrounds and cultures to navigating unfamiliar environments, I became more independent. This experience made me want to continue my studies abroad to keep growing and learning in new environments.
Why ISS?
I chose the International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) because their Development Studies program perfectly matches my diverse interests in social welfare, inequalities, and gender issues. ISS's multidisciplinary approach allows me to explore all these areas together. Plus, their program is highly ranked, placing among the top 5 in the European Union and within the top 10% globally, which speaks to its credibility and quality.
What are your future plans?
I plan to continue my career with international organizations or NGOs, focusing on women's and children's issues. I'm also exploring job opportunities in the Netherlands, aiming to contribute to initiatives that support families and improve children's life chances.
Would you recommend ISS to your friends?
Yes, I will definitely recommend ISS to my friends who are interested in continuing their studies in development area, because I think ISS is an institution that can provide a deep understanding of the underlying issues that the society is currently grappling with, and help us gain a fresh perspective.