Home > Resources and Services > Admissions > Contact Admissions Office
Sidney Nakao Nakahodo, 2005 MIA Graduate with a concentration in International Economic Policy
Back to Students, Faculty and Alumni Interviews
Sidney Nakao Nakahodo, a native of Brazil, graduated in 2005 with a concentration in International Economic Policy and now works for the World Bank as a Caron Finance Analyst. He talks about why he chose SIPA and elaborates on his experience as a student.
What are you doing now?
“As an analyst at the World Bank's carbon finance unit, I provide logistical and analytical support to carbon funds that sponsor projects in developing countries aimed at mitigating carbon emissions.”
Describe your background prior to attending SIPA?
“I graduated with a degree in materials science and engineering in college and worked as a technical specialist in the chemical business. I also helped set up a environmental consulting firm and volunteered as a research assistant and worked on energy policy related issues.”
Why did you choose to attend at SIPA?
“I figured out that SIPA was the right place to me when I came to visit the school as a prospective student for three reasons. First, I was particularly interested in economic policy and Latin American studies, and I was fortunate to be introduced to a very charismatic professor named Professor Albert Fishlow, the director of the Center for Brazilian Studies at that time, who has served as a mentor for generations of academics and practitioners in Brazil, my home country.
Second, the reputation of Columbia as one of the world's finest universities and its location in the heart of New York City were factors that greatly appealed to me.
Finally, during my visit to SIPA, someone told me about an extraordinary place called International House where many of the students used to live, which I saw as a perfect place to interact with people with a broad background and life experiences.”
How would you describe your experience at SIPA?
“Without any doubt, the years I spent at SIPA were the best ones of my life, from the academic and personal perspectives. Not only could I explore different interests, given the curriculum flexibility, but I also had the chance establish a close relationship with professors, some of whom I'm still in touch with. Above all, the most memorable part of my SIPA experience was the amazing group of friends I made from all corners of the world.”
Can you talk about the internships and/or workshops you completed while at SIPA?
“I did my summer internship at the UNDP's Evaluation Office in New York, an opportunity that I found out about through a SIPA classmate. It was my first professional experience in an international organization, where I experienced the possibilities and constraints faced by the professionals working in such institutions. It was certainly an important milestone in my professional career that helped me get where I currently stand.”
Did you take classes at other Columbia schools during your time at SIPA?
“Yes, I took classes at the Law School, and the Psychology, Political Science, and Economics departments. One of the greatest advantages of SIPA is the possibility of attending courses in different schools and, with the orientation of my professors, I tried to take full advantage of that fact.”
What is your estimation of SIPA's reputation in academic and professional settings?
“During my internship at the UNDP, a fact that drew my attention was the number of SIPA alumni in the UN system, which tells us a lot about the school's reputation. I've also come across a large number of SIPA alumni at the World Bank and other international organizations. With all certainty, SIPA and Columbia are well respected names that make a résumé stand out in any job application process.”
What is the most valuable thing you took away from your time at SIPA?
“Without any doubt the great people I had the chance to come across among professors, staff, and classmates.”
What is your relationship with SIPA now?
“I contribute with the SIPA community by volunteering to offer career advice, receiving students for informational interviews, and helping in the organization of events for the alumni in the DC area. I also try to keep in touch with staff and faculty and often write to provide update of my career progression and reaffirm the fundamental role they have played with their lessons, support, and advising.”
In your view, what type of person is "right" for SIPA?
“Despite the make up of such a diverse community, SIPA people in general share some common characteristics: they tend to be idealistic but have their "feet on the ground"; they are high achievers and passionate about what they do.”
Do you think SIPA graduates "make a difference" in the world?
“The best way to answer the question is to cite a few personal examples: a close SIPA friend is currently the chief negotiator of the free trade agreement between Peru and China and another classmate serves an advisor for a UN undersecretary. I recently helped organize a youth development conference at the World Bank where one of the speakers once played an unforgettable role in a SIPA follies!”
Did SIPA help you in the job search process upon graduation?
“Absolutely. When I started looking for jobs I attended an informational interview with someone who was well aware of SIPA and eventually end up becoming my boss. Besides, I first arrived at the World Bank after a SIPA friend contacted me about a consulting position being offered in her department.”