Program Assistant Introduction: Marsela Liem MPA ’25
Marsela Liem ’25 is a Masters of Public Administration (MPA) candidate concentrating in Economic and Political Development (EPD) with a specialization in International Organizations and United Nations (IO/UN) concentrations. She was born and raised in Jakarta, Indonesia, where she obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Studies and worked both in the private and public sectors.
As an entrepreneur, she built partnerships with top beauty brands, to sell their products through e-commerce platforms in Indonesia, empowering women from diverse backgrounds, and providing them with skills training and mind-changing employment experience. In the public sectors, Marsela worked with the Third Deputy of Industrialization and Development Affairs in The House of Representatives of Indonesia to champion financial literacy initiatives for grassroots SMEs to avoid loan sharks, access legal and financial services, and significantly enhance their productivity while contributing to Indonesia's national entrepreneurship agenda.
Outside of work, Marsela is passionate about animal rescue and community welfare. She regularly fosters injured stray animals, especially cats and dogs, providing them with veterinary care and finding them loving homes. As a volunteer with the Tzu Chi Foundation, she also supports humanitarian efforts like disaster relief and community blood drives, bringing compassion and commitment to every role she takes on.
What were you doing before you came to SIPA?
Before coming to SIPA, I co-founded and led my own e-commerce beauty shop, partnering with top beauty brands and empowering underprivileged women through skills training and employment. I also served as an Associate Staff Intern in the Indonesian House of Representatives, working on public policy initiatives to support grassroots communities. Additionally, I volunteered in animal rescue and with the Tzu Chi Foundation, contributing to community welfare and humanitarian efforts.
What was the most challenging aspect of the application process?
The most challenging aspect of the application process was conveying the depth and diversity of my experiences in a concise, impactful way. Balancing my background in entrepreneurship, public sector work, and community involvement—while clearly showing how these elements align with my goals at SIPA—required deep, thorough, and careful reflection while conveying it with strategic communication to make each part stand out effectively.
What advice do you have for current applicants?
Show your best qualities through a deep understanding of your own life story. Don’t be someone else. Everyone in SIPA comes from different backgrounds from all over the world, and there’s no one-size-fits-all. You need to realize and exhibit concisely how a SIPA degree will help you personally, and professionally make the change in the field that you’re working on. In terms of finding recommenders, find people who know you best, and are excited about your journey. Find someone who can vouch for your ability and fitness for SIPA programs.
Can you comment specifically on some exciting things about your concentration?
This is the best concentration that you’ll have. Economic and Political Development concentration intersects both public and private sectors in so many way. I learned a lot from this concentration, its’ hands-on approach to learning through workshops and capstone projects give me a chance to work with real clients like international organizations, nonprofits, and government agencies, applying what I’ve learned in the classroom to tackle real-world issues.
Tell me what is your best experience as a Columbia University student and New Yorker?
My best experience as a Columbia student has been connecting with incredibly diverse and inspiring communities, where every conversation sparks new ideas and perspectives. As a New Yorker, I love how the city never sleeps—it’s a constant source of energy and inspiration, from grabbing a chai latte in a bustling Soho café to attending International events that push my thinking and creativity. The blend of academic rigor and the city's dynamic vibe has truly made my time here unforgettable. It’s a “once in a lifetime” experience.
What has been the most challenging part of your SIPA experience?
The most challenging part of my SIPA experience has been juggling the demanding coursework with the countless opportunities to dive into projects, networking events, and the vibrant New York City life. It’s like trying to fit a puzzle together every week—learning how to stay on top of everything while still making time to enjoy the process has been thrilling, yet sometimes overwhelming. Balancing everything needs a strong mental and physical capacity, therefore, as an International student living abroad by myself, I always look for strong emotional support from my family back home and friends that I know here.
What are your goals for the second year?
My goal is to go all out for networking and build a better credential for my future career trajectory. My aim during the second year at SIPA is to focus on building deeper connections through networking and making meaningful friendships. I aim to learn from my peers and professors, drawing from their diverse perspectives and experiences to broaden my own understanding and craft my own unique path. I also want to continue cultivating a positive, open-minded attitude, embracing every opportunity to grow personally and professionally by collaborating with others and contributing to the community.