Class of 2012 Student Profiles

Veronica Jubera Maldonado, 2013, France, Peru, and Spain

Why I chose Fletcher: I came to Fletcher to focus on development issues, in particular urban poverty. At Fletcher, I'm getting a very unique education thanks to the interdisciplinary approach, where complex issues are studied from the political, economic and legal perspectives. I am able to tailor my own personal curriculum and gain exposure to the specific issues that I am interested in. I feel very privileged to be able to discuss topics and have meaningful exchanges with the faculty as well as with my amazingly diverse student peers. The sense of community here is a key part of the Fletcher experience, and new students feel an immediate sense of belonging.

How I plan to use my experience at Fletcher to make a difference in the world: I grew up in Peru, in a city surrounded by slums. My childhood experiences triggered a curiosity in development issues, in particular urban poverty. My experience at Fletcher will help me to work on poverty-alleviation issues in slums, such as the role that the private sector plays in upgrading projects and improving settlements. The MALD program provides both the theoretical and practical knowledge that will enable me to make a real difference to South American low-income housing.