Perspectives of an Asian Female Undergraduate on Attending the 2023 World Bank and IMF Meetings. Jeongmin Yoon, American University.

As an intern at Creative Investment Research and an Asian woman pursuing an undergraduate degree in economics, I had the privilege of attending the Spring Meetings 2023 organized by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank in Washington, DC, from April 9 to 16, 2023. The event convened experts from around the world to address pressing global economic issues. Notable attendees included World Bank Chairman David Malpass and Bank of Korea President Lee Chang-yong. Over the course of a week, I participated in eight events and three networking sessions, discussions regarding the global economy.

First, engaging in conversations with economic experts, including high-ranking professionals from various countries, was an invaluable experience for me. The exchange of ideas among economists with diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives provided unique insights and fresh outlooks. Consequently, I gained a broader understanding of not only the economic landscape but also its interconnections with environmental issues, workers' human rights, and gender-related conflicts on a global scale.

Moreover, the event facilitated the presentation of numerous approaches and solutions to global challenges. In-depth discussions on the stability and sustainability of the global economy took place, with proposals aimed at assisting economically vulnerable regions. Additionally, the conference delved into economic issues related to women's human rights and climate change, providing a comprehensive analysis and exploring potential solutions. This deepened my understanding of the complexities facing the global economy and inspired me to consider innovative ways to tackle these problems.

Lastly, the Meetings were organized by two of the world's most influential financial institutions: the IMF and the World Bank Group. They presented me with an opportunity to expand my professional network within the field of economics. Building connections with economists operating worldwide can be mutually beneficial for our respective careers. Overall, attending this event significantly contributed to my personal growth and professional development as a budding economist.