In November 2023, I came across an exciting opportunity organized by the University of Minnesota's Economics Department: A Career Exploration Tour in Washington, DC scheduled for the 2024 Spring Break. Recognizing the prestige of the university's Economics program, ranked 18th in the US and 20th globally (Shanghai Ranking’s 2023 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects), I knew this was an opportunity not to be missed.

Despite being relatively new to campus life, I was filled with a blend of excitement and nervousness. The competition for limited spots on the tour was fierce, with numerous Economics students vying for the chance to participate. However, I was determined to seize the opportunity, guided by the belief that “where there is a will there is a way.”

To my delight, I was accepted into the program. What is more, my fellows and I were awarded the prestigious Edward G. Clark Jr. scholarship, which would help offset the financial expenses associated with the tour. This scholarship not only guaranteed my participation but also eased some of the financial strain, enhancing the value of the experience for me.

Time passes by so quickly! I arrived in DC a few days before the program began. I took advantage of this early arrival to catch up with friends and explore the city. During my visit, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with Eliya, Faye, and Johileny, whom I met at The Asia Foundation’s LeadNext Fellows Program back in 2022.

To my surprise, I also ran into my former supervisor and mentor, Maun Héctor, who happened to be in town for a business trip. It was a delightful coincidence to see him, and I was grateful for the opportunity to catch up with him and his family. Having familiar faces around when you are far from home is always comforting.

The much-anticipated activities of our trip finally commenced, marking the beginning of an enriching experience. Our day kicked off with a series of meetings with distinguished University of Minnesota alumni, each making waves in their respective fields. Personally drawn to the policy analysis and design, I seized the opportunity to engage with a Policy Adviser to a Minnesota Senator. Through our conversation, I gained a deeper understanding of his motivations and the practical application of economic concepts in his work.

Throughout our time in Washington, DC, our schedules were packed with engagements at various Federal agencies and organizations. We delved into the inner workings of institutions such as the US Department of State, USAID, the Government Accountability Office, as well as global entities like the World Bank, IMF, Chemonics, International Republican Institute, and Deloitte.

Despite the hectic activities, a standout moment emerged during an evening networking event at the prestigious Cosmos Club. Alongside my fellow attendees, we had the chance to talk to Master’s students from U of M’s Humphrey School of Public Policy, as well as esteemed leaders and influencers from diverse economic and policy backgrounds. This experience not only provided invaluable insights but also fostered connections that are poised to significantly impact our future pursuits in the realm of public policy or graduate studies.

On my last day in Washington DC, I took my time to fully immerse myself in the city's attractions and reconnect with a dear friend. I took the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely lunch with my friend Maun Tim at the distinguished US State Department. It was a lovely reunion that added a personal touch to my visit. After the meal, I embarked on a tour of the vibrant Georgetown area. Exploring the historic streets, I made a point of visiting Georgetown University, an iconic institution that occupies a significant place in the city's cultural landscape.

Continuing my exploration, I delved into the rich offerings of several renowned museums. At the National Museum of the American Indian, I was impressed by the many exhibits showcasing indigenous cultures and histories. Then, at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, I was captivated by the fascinating displays of human creativity in designing airplanes.

Reflecting on the time I spent in Washington DC, where I engaged with leaders across industries and deepened friendships, I realized and argue that building relationships and trust are the foundation for success. What impressed me was the common trait among the speakers I encountered: humility in listening. This realization led me to recognize that although having high IQ skills is valuable, it is still not enough on its own. True success requires humility to nurture trust and relationships, which in turn contribute to a person's integrity.

Individuals who possess high IQ and integrity have a unique advantage in expanding their networks, ultimately making them highly sought after. This powerful combination makes them practically unstoppable. In essence, my personal experiences highlight the vital role of humility, confidence, and integrity in achieving goals and making notable progress, both personally and professionally.