“I was curious about social issues from an early age, long wondering why some people had so little while others have a lot more. I am a first-generation college student, born and raised in a small town in Northern #Peru. Both of my parents worked hard to make ends meet and to provide my sisters and I with opportunities to achieve our fullest potential. Resilience is the one word that would best describe my childhood. Today, I’m most passionate about contributing to a more equitable and just world. I believe it is our responsibility to use our talent to close the widening gaps that keep many people in the periphery of what we call ‘development.’ I decided to pursue a career in public policy because I am committed to bringing a different perspective to the table where many crucial decisions are taken. Before enrolling at @PrincetonSPIA, I worked at @poverty_action, conducting impact evaluation studies in Peru and other Latin American countries on the areas of early childhood development and education. I’ve also worked in the Planning and Budgeting Office at the Ministry of Education in Peru. Working at the Ministry during the pandemic outbreak was one of the greatest challenges I faced before beginning this program. I am excited to engage in this learning journey surrounded by incredible classmates and faculty and cannot wait to see our future contribution to our fields.” — María Luisa Zeta Valladolid MPA ’21.