2025 Graduation Stories: Livia Hoxha

Livia Hoxha MIDP'25 arrived at Duke with a strong foundation in public service, having served in Albania’s Ministry of Finance and Economy, where she contributed to public debt management, donor coordination and EU Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance fund implementation. She designed her Master of International Development Policy (MIDP) studies to focus on environmental and energy policy management, taking courses on international energy systems, sustainable development and environmental data analysis, and participating in the U.N. Climate Change Negotiations Practicum.

From her coursework, she strengthened her skills in policy analysis, strategic project management and problem-solving, while developing a more analytical and systems-oriented mindset that she says will enhance her capacity to tackle complex development challenges and design effective, context-sensitive policy solutions.

Additionally, Livia interned with Veolia Services Bulgaria and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy in Tirana, Albani; served as chief financial officer on the MIDP Student Council; and completed a teaching assistantship for the Policy Analysis of Development class.

She also represented Duke at the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), an experience she describes as a pivotal moment in her academic journey. “Being immersed in global climate discussions and multilateral negotiations gave me a much deeper, more grounded understanding of the complexities of international policy,” she says.

For her master’s project, she examined how to enhance drought resilience for family farmers in Bahia, Brazil, and proposed policy options for sustainable water use. “Through analyzing intersecting vulnerabilities – climate change, water scarcity and weak rural governance – I developed a set of context-sensitive recommendations aimed at improving farmers' adaptive capacities over time,” she explains.

“Bahia represents one of the most vulnerable regions to climate variability, making it an important case for exploring practical policy approaches that could inform broader efforts across similarly affected regions, including my home country of Albania,” she adds. “I chose this topic because of its strong relevance to global development challenges at the intersection of climate resilience, rural livelihoods and water resource management. I wanted to apply my growing expertise in environmental policy to address real-world problems where sustainable solutions could have transformative impacts on marginalized rural communities.”

The Power of Mentorship

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One of the most impactful aspects of Livia’s academic and personal journey at Duke has been her relationship with Professor Natalia Mirovitskaya. “As my professor and mentor, she has continuously inspired me with her deep knowledge, passion for development, and commitment to student success,” Livia explains. “Professor Natalia has supported me by offering detailed, constructive feedback that sharpened my analytical writing and critical thinking. She encouraged me to take on leadership roles and provided invaluable guidance as I shaped my master's project, helping me refine my research questions and think critically about real-world applications.”

“I’ve learned from her the importance of intellectual rigor combined with empathy; an approach I hope to carry forward in my own professional life,” she adds. “She taught me that empathy in development work is essential. It grounds analytical rigor in human reality, ensuring that solutions are not only technically sound but also deeply responsive to the people they aim to help.”

Looking ahead, Livia plans to lead with empathy and work for organizations that are committed to equity, climate resilience and inclusive governance, where she can bridge policy and practice to create meaningful impact.

She also aspires to contribute to Albania’s development trajectory by designing and implementing policies that promote equity, sustainability and good governance. One day she hopes to establish an NGO focused on educating and empowering Albanian youth to understand and act on climate change.

“The MIDP program has been instrumental in preparing me for this path,” she notes. “Its interdisciplinary curriculum, real-world focus and international perspective have equipped me with the analytical tools, policy frameworks and leadership skills needed to make a meaningful impact both globally and at home.”

Q&A

What has been your favorite class and why?

While I’ve genuinely enjoyed all my classes in the MIDP program, Policy Analysis of Development with Professor Natalia Mirovitskaya stands out as a favorite. It wasn’t just a core course - it shifted the way I think. Before the course, I tended to approach development challenges with a focus mainly on good intentions and broad ideas. After the course, my thinking shifted to a more evidence-based and structured mindset, where every recommendation needs to be backed by causal analysis, measurable outcomes and a deep understanding of local context.

The course gave me a strong foundation in analytical tools and frameworks, such as the problem tree analysis, Stakeholder and PESTEL analysis, multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA), and the logical framework (logframe) approach. These tools helped me break down complex development challenges into clear, actionable components and tackle issues with more structure, clarity and strategic thinking.

What really brought the course to life was Professor Mirovitskaya’s thoughtful teaching style and her use of real-world case studies, which made every concept feel relevant and actionable. The class left a lasting impression and continues to shape how I approach my work and long-term goals.

Has your perspective on your chosen field changed throughout your studies?

Yes, my perspective on international development has evolved significantly. While I entered the program with a strong passion for the field, my studies have helped me better understand the systemic nature of development challenges and the importance of context-specific, evidence-based policy solutions. I now see development not just as a technical process, but as a deeply human-centered endeavor requiring empathy, adaptability and humility.

What is one of the most valuable lessons you learned during your time at Duke?

Just how powerful collaboration and interdisciplinary thinking can be when you're trying to make a real difference. Being part of such a diverse community, where everyone brings something unique to the table, taught me that the best ideas often come from open, honest conversations and a willingness to learn from others. Some of the most meaningful moments for me weren’t just in the classroom, but in those late-night brainstorms, group projects and informal chats where perspectives clashed in the best possible way. It reminded me that solving complex problems isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about creating space for shared ideas to grow. That mindset is something I’ll carry with me wherever I go next.

What is your favorite aspect of the MIDP program?

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Without a doubt, the incredible community. Being part of a cohort made up of professionals from all over the world created a learning environment that was as dynamic as it was inspiring. Every conversation – whether in class, over coffee, or during a group project – offered a chance to see the world through someone else’s lens. That kind of diversity pushed me to grow in ways I didn’t expect. But beyond the intellectual exchange, what stood out most was the deep sense of camaraderie and support. There’s something really special about being surrounded by people who are not only passionate about creating change but are also genuinely there for one another. It made Duke feel like home, and those relationships will stay with me long after the program ends.

The program offers so much more than academics; it’s an experience that challenges perspectives, expands horizons, and fosters a truly global network of support and inspiration. It’s not just a degree, it’s a lifelong community. I truly feel it has changed my life, not just by shaping the professional I’m becoming, but by enriching the person I am.

What advice would you give to incoming MIDP fellows?

Be open to learning from everyone: faculty, staff, and especially your fellow MIDP peers.

The richness of the program lies in its diversity, so engage deeply, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Also, take advantage of every opportunity Duke offers, both academically and professionally; you’ll be amazed by how much you grow in just a short time!