Gabriel Angarita

Hometown: Bogotá, Colombia

Why did you choose McCourt? McCourt provides a unique opportunity to study in the heart of the world’s most important policy city. You will learn from exceptional teachers, collaborate with outstanding classmates, and develop essential skills and knowledge for your future career.

What professional/ work experience did you have prior to coming to McCourt? 

I have 10 years of work experience. My first 5 years were spent on one NGO that oversees elections, makes recommendations to the national government, and provides capacity-building and information to citizens about democracy and public participation.

After that experience, I spent five years working in the local government of Bogotá, Colombia’s capital. During this time, I held various roles, primarily focusing on the city’s most critical issues. I helped facilitate communication between different agencies to address these challenges and took the lead when action was lacking. Ultimately, I took on a more institutional role, managing the budget of one agency and developing and implementing public policies to benefit the citizens of Bogotá.

What has been the best part of your experience so far? The classes are exciting, and the professors have tons of experience, something I appreciate. That makes classes entertaining. 

Student organization involvement while at McCourt: Latin American & Caribbean Policy Association (LAPA)

Undergraduate University, degree, and major: Universidad de Los Andes, Degree in Political Science

Hobbies/ Interests: Implementation of Public Policies. Reading. Playing sports like soccer and running across the city. Enjoy the museums.