Mariana De Lucio’s Post

A couple of weeks ago, I graduated with a Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Oxford. Reflecting on this journey, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for how far I’ve come. It took years of shaping my profile, improving my English to engage with complex issues, battling imposter syndrome, and making personal sacrifices to save every penny to make this dream a reality. But I didn’t walk this path alone. Thanks to the incredible support from Chevening Awards and Weidenfeld Hoffmann Trust Scholarship and Leadership Programme I was honored not only to receive a full scholarship, but two. Being a Chevening-WHT scholar opened doors to an invaluable network and a community that empowered me throughout my preparation in Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford I truly consider it a golden ticket. Now, after an incredible year at Oxford, I’ve returned to Mexico, a country facing significant challenges—especially with aggressive reforms threatening to erode our democracy. The situation has forced me to reevaluate my path. The public sector, where I have always envisioned contributing, is becoming less open to those of us who value principles and integrity. Even more personally, due to the judicial overhaul, the office where I work is being dismantled. My career plans are in flux. But, during my graduation, a fellow MPP colleague shared something that resonated deeply with me: “This means you have a purpose now.” At that moment, I realized how right she was. The challenges I face now are precisely what my year at Oxford has prepared me for. It has strengthened my commitment to fight for the principles I hold dear—democracy, justice, and human rights. While the road ahead will be tough, I’m more determined than ever to embrace change and continue fighting for what’s right. There’s much work to be done to protect the values we stand for in Mexico, and I am ready to contribute to that cause. So, here’s to the next chapter. Let the new journey begin. One again, thank you Oxford for the most insightful year (so far).