Shiru Kimani is a Master of Global Policy Studies student and a second-generation Kenyan American from Hayward, Calif. A candidate for our upcoming May graduation, Shiru completed her undergraduate degree in International Economics and Multi-Language from St. Lawrence University in Canton, N.Y. The aspiring diplomat and Pickering Fellow was drawn to the LBJ School to further grasp the connection between the U.S. economy and its leadership in the global market.
Shiru Kimani, MGPS
Policy interests: International development, economics
“I am passionate about commercial diplomacy because the private and public sectors haven't been as cohesive as they could be. There is a gap of support in which the government can help U.S. businesses thrive domestically and internationally, but only the most prominent businesses are aware. I long to help bridge the gap and help small businesses understand the investment climate in different countries as a U.S. diplomat abroad.”
“I wanted to pursue a degree in global policy because I wanted to grasp the connection between the U.S. economy and its role as a global hegemon. I chose LBJ because it ranks in the top 10 in public policy and is located in the capital of Texas, which played a pivotal role in the history of U.S. nation-building.”
Please share your academic and professional journey.
I was born and raised in the Bay Area, California, which is a melting pot of different cultures. Growing up surrounded by many entrepreneurs, I became fascinated by the economic conditions that allowed their businesses to thrive. I studied AP Macroeconomics and Microeconomics at a high school in East Palo Alto. Later, I pursued a double major in international economics and multilanguage at St. Lawrence University in upstate New York. During my junior year, I interned at JP Morgan Wealth Management, where I realized my passion for public service rather than consulting for wealthy individuals. Now, I am pursuing a Master of Global Policy degree in preparation for becoming a U.S. diplomat upon graduation.
What do you see as the biggest challenges facing US or global policy today?
The biggest challenge facing global policy today is migration. The global North needs to create effective immigration policies that provide access and opportunity for migrants to seek asylum or immigrate legally.
What goals do you hope to achieve in your career?
I hope to become a U.S. diplomat in the economics career track, facilitating partnerships between U.S. businesses and host countries in the area of sustainable development. Additionally, I aspire to collaborate with businesses in the retirement industry that are committed to creating wholesome retirement communities to support the globally growing aging population.
Learn more about the Master of Global Policy Studies. The Round 2 Deadline is March 1.