Peking University, April 21, 2023: The Peking University Student Career Center organized a visit on April 13 to the World Bank as part of the "International Organization Visit” series. The visit was hosted by PKU alumni who are currently working at the World Bank, including Senior Human Resource Business Partner Jiao Yingli, Senior Urban Development Specialist Xiao Yuan, and Business Analyst Zhu Hua, who shared their experience of working in the World Bank with our students and faculty staff.

Group photo

Delving into her own career experiences, Xiao shared about her journey after graduating from university. She stressed the importance of being a lifelong learner and constantly improving one’s professionalism and competitive advantage. In her introduction to the World Bank’s urban development projects, she shared personal anecdotes from her work in Saudi Arabia to illustrate the different facets of a career as an international civil servant. She encouraged STEM students to consider a career in the international civil service, and advised all the students to engage in more cross-cultural communication to improve their cultural sensitivity. 

Sharing by Xiao Yuan

Zhu provided an overview of the World Bank Group’s project operations and their partnerships with China. She also explained how sustainability and the provision of global public goods have become new focal points in international cooperation, For instance, the World Bank’s Climate Change Action Plan 2021-2025 allocates 35% of its to support climate action, and the World Bank’s cooperation with China has already shifted from traditional infrastructure projects to green and sustainable development. Lastly, she advised students to learn more about the different pathways to join the United Nations (UN), especially the UN Young Professionals Program.

Sharing by Zhu Hua

Jiao introduced the talent recruitment and training process at the World Bank. She shared that the World Bank seeks to recruit professional and multi-disciplinary talents, and explained the different tracks for recruitment. She advised students to step out of their comfort zones, to express their opinions boldly both in their studies and work, and to improve their communication skills. 

Sharing by Jiao Yingli

During the Q&A session, PKU students and faculty had the opportunity to discuss various policy issues such as climate change, and seek further advice on career selection and development. The visit was concluded with a tour of the World Bank.

Q&A session

Written by: Chan Zi Qing
Edited by: Su Huangyi
Source: PKU News (Chinese)