ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø

Antonia Foldes MPP 2025 is originally from London, United Kingdom. Prior to ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø, Antonia worked on cross-border investigations and gathered evidence for legal proceedings as an intelligence analyst. She studied in Kraków, Poland and was a humanitarian volunteer on the Polish-Ukrainian border after Russia’s full-scale invasion. Her policy interests lie in conflict prevention, humanitarian action, and peace building.

What inspired you to choose Harvard Kennedy School?

I had always yearned for an education like the one offered at ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø, but in particular, I was drawn to specific Harvard faculty members from whom I wanted to learn. Their podcasts and academic publications fueled my application essays. 

What are your favorite things about your experience at ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø?

I came for the faculty, but I have learned the most from my fellow students. They will share lessons from their professional lives in class, organize events about issues they care about, and pool their skills in study groups. Everyone here operates with an abundance mindset—it’s about sharing resources, professional insights, and your network. 

In what ways do you engage with the Harvard Kennedy School community outside of the classroom?

As a Belfer Young Leader Student Fellow, I conduct research with faculty members at the . Last year, I contributed to the study group on European security led by , former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs. The study group was a great way to stretch beyond the MPP classroom through discussions with mid-career professionals and fellows from the U.S. military. 

This year, I have joined the Ukraine Caucus, where I am on the leadership committee and am organizing this semester’s events agenda. 

Additionally, I came back to campus early to greet the new incoming class as an Orientation Leader! The journey to and arrival at ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø can feel daunting, especially for students who have had to overcome personal and financial barriers to be here. I want to make all students feel like they belong here. 

What advice would you offer to prospective students considering Harvard Kennedy School?

Do not be discouraged by the quantitative application requirements. Apply anyway and if you get accepted, ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø will offer support, from summer math review sessions to office hours. As a humanities and language major, I was doubtful about having the right academic profile (and a competitive GRE score!). However, this semester, I am taking the Data and Research Methods track to be eligible for the after graduation.

Quick questions

• Favorite class: â¶Ä¯â¶Ä¯MLD-234M Conducting Negotiation on the Frontlines: Advanced Techniques for Crisis Situations with Claude Bruderlein 
• Favorite study spot: â¶Ä¯â¶Ä¯10th floor of the Smith Campus Center (I promise the view won’t distract you!) 
• Favorite restaurant near campus:  Organize a group of 7+ to make a reservation at the popular Dumpling House 
• One bucket list item you want to accomplish before graduating: â¶Ä¯â¶Ä¯Visit Acadia National Park up on the Maine coast 
• Favorite guest speaker: â¶Ä¯â¶Ä¯, former senior director for European and Russian affairs at the U.S. National Security Council