Maria Thereza Rios Hortencio

I chose to pursue my master’s at the Stanford Graduate School of Education when I realized that shaping education policy and development was the path I wanted to dedicate my career to. With over six years of experience in social investment and public policy—supporting governments in developing and enhancing policies—I knew I needed to further equip myself for the challenges ahead. The MA in International Education Policy Analysis (IEPA) program at Stanford was the only program I applied to in the U.S., and it was a decision I will never regret. 

Stanford’s MA program offered more than just a curriculum. It provided me with an environment to engage deeply with education policy issues on a global scale. The program’s rigorous focus on research methodology, combined with practical coursework, helped me not only pivot my career trajectory but also deepen my understanding of international education practices. The interdisciplinary and innovative ecosystem at Stanford, coupled with the world-class expertise of the faculty, allowed me to gain the skills I needed. 

One of the key aspects of the program for me was engaging in research. My skills in academic research underwent a transformational change—it's remarkable how much you can learn in just one year. The freedom to choose your research methods and topics, alongside expert guidance, makes an enormous difference. Given the international nature of the program, I had the opportunity to research the country of my choice, exploring a wide variety of topics. In my case, I delved into the scaling of a national education policy in Brazil across different states, conducting a case study that examined local challenges and the state's capacity for policy implementation. This project allowed me to apply my background in public administration while integrating the new perspectives and methodologies I learned at Stanford, creating a powerful synergy that resonated deeply with my professional experiences. 

The small, diverse cohort of the IEPA program was another aspect that made my experience at Stanford stand out. The ICE/IEPA cohort, with around 20 students from all over the world, fosters close relationships with both peers and professors. This tight-knit environment was a major reason why I prioritized Stanford’s program—it allowed for meaningful connections and collaboration that set the program apart. The friendships I built with my classmates and the relationships with faculty have made a huge difference in the richness of this experience. 

Stanford offers so much beyond the classroom. Throughout the year, I sought out additional learning opportunities as a research assistant. I worked at the Clayman Institute for Gender Research, which allowed me to deepen my understanding of gender disparities—something that has always been a personal priority for me. Additionally, my role as a research assistant at the Lemann Center for Entrepreneurship and Educational Innovation in Brazil enabled me to contribute to vocational education research projects, aligning with my Master’s paper and past expertise. 

Being at Stanford means opening yourself to diverse experiences and challenges. I was particularly interested in exploring the development sector and international discussions. This led me to a summer internship at Imago Global Grassroots during my final months at Stanford, where I worked with SEWA (Self-Employed Women’s Association), a trade union founded in India in 1972, dedicated to promoting and defending the rights of women working in the informal sector. This experience was an invaluable opportunity to see how education and development models adapt to diverse contexts, and it was the perfect way to conclude my journey at Stanford. 

Now, I am a program manager at Imago Global Office, responsible for the Brazilian office and international programs, working closely with multilateral organizations. I am confident that this would not have been possible without my time at Stanford. The skills, knowledge, and network I developed there have prepared me to contribute meaningfully to public policy in Brazil and beyond, helping to create more equitable access to opportunities for all. 

The IEPA program is about excellence, challenge, and growth—both intellectually and personally. It’s a journey that equips you with the tools, perspectives, and network to make a meaningful impact, whether in your home country or globally. As I continue my work, I feel a strong sense of responsibility to apply everything I have learned to improve education in Brazil, and I know I am part of a global community committed to making the world a better place.