Peter Sagun // he/him
OEL Master’s in Education ‘25
Philippines/Sweden
Above all, HGSE has been far more than an academic journey—it’s been a personal and professional transformation.
My journey in education leadership began in international schools across Asia and Europe, primarily within IB World School settings. Over the years, I’ve dedicated myself to inclusive leadership, empowering teachers, and fostering meaningful learning experiences across culturally and linguistically diverse communities. I came to HGSE with a desire to expand my impact—not only within individual schools, but across entire educational systems. I was drawn by the opportunity to pursue purposeful, equity-centered leadership that has the power to transform learning experiences for all students and members of the learning community.
This program has truly been a turning point. It has equipped me with practical tools to lead with clarity and compassion, and has sharpened my ability to navigate the complex realities of school communities. More than anything, it has reinforced my commitment to keeping students and teachers at the heart of every decision.
Since my work is grounded in international education beyond the U.S. context, one of the most powerful aspects of this program has been learning how to translate and adapt key concepts to diverse settings. While much of the coursework is anchored in U.S.-based case studies, the professors at HGSE have been incredibly supportive—encouraging me to bridge theory and practice across borders, and to honor the cultural, social, organizational and demographic contexts of the communities I serve. Their openness and mentorship have not only expanded my global lens, but also validated the importance of inclusive leadership in every part of the world.
This program… has reinforced my commitment to keeping students and teachers at the heart of every decision.
The learning hasn’t just come from the faculty—it’s been deeply enriched by my classmates. Each of them brings unique perspectives from public, private, charter, independent and international schools, and learning alongside them has been one of the most inspiring aspects of my time here. Their stories, insights, and lived experiences have challenged me to think more expansively about what leadership looks like in different systems and settings.
Among the most impactful moments of the year were those that pushed me outside my comfort zone. In Brave Conversations, I had the chance to craft and deliver speeches shaped by personal reflection and bold prompts. The highlight? Learning from former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who joined our class to speak about leadership anchored in empathy and authenticity. Her example of combining logos and pathos—logic and emotion—reminded me of the transformative power of values-driven communication.
Another standout experience was Strategic Financing for School Leaders. I walked into that class with a bit of apprehension, but I walked out with confidence. It helped me see the essential connection between mission and money—how aligning resources with a school’s vision is not just smart leadership, but ethical leadership.
Finally, the Negotiation and Conflict Resolution course reshaped the way I approach conversations and collaboration. It helped me move from positional bargaining to a more collaborative and interest-based approach—one that seeks shared understanding and builds trust in ways that are sustainable and human-centered.
Above all, HGSE has been far more than an academic journey—it’s been a personal and professional transformation. It has given me the language, tools, connection and conviction to lead boldly and compassionately in PreK–12 (international) education, wherever in the world this work takes me next.
HGSE Admissions Blog 