My experience at the Graduate School of Public Policy (GraSPP) at the University of Tokyo was a remarkable academic journey for me and it shaped both my personal and professional development. GraSPP provided a robust foundation, shaping my approach to monetary policy at the Bank of the Lao PDR (BoL).
At GraSPP, I was surrounded by a rigorous academic environment where I had opportunities to explore various public policies and economics. The program was designed to challenge and expand the understanding of public policy through a blend of theory and practices. However, it is flexible as we can explore courses during the shopping weeks, allowing us to choose the right courses that fit our interests.
Courses such as Monetary Policy, Econometrics for Public Policy, and Public-Private Partnership were particularly designed to prepare us for real-world challenges. Participating in seminars and collaborative projects with policy experts and peers enhanced my ability to critically evaluate policy issues and create practical solutions.
One of the most impactful aspects of the GraSPP experience was the diversity of people and culture. As it is an international program, my understanding of global issues was fostered through discussions and debates with students from various backgrounds.
With a strong community led by the Student Council, I enjoyed spending time with peers at the student lounge where collaborative learning is shared beyond the classroom. This collaborative environment helped develop my problem-solving skills and prepared me for the multiple challenges of public policy.
My time at GraSPP also contributed to my personal development. The demanding schedule and rigorous coursework required me to manage my time effectively and remain focused under pressure. With facilities on the campus such as a top-class library, gym, and green space, I can effectively immerse myself into a good work-life balance in which workloads and physical fitness are well managed. Moreover, living in Japan allows me to explore the beauty of its culture, history, and cuisine. These opportunities shaped me to develop resilience and keep up with the goal.
Since graduating, I returned to the BoL, where I joined the Monetary Policy Department. This role involves applying the skills I acquired at GraSPP to real-world monetary policy issues. One of the key projects I have been involved in is developing a forecasting and policy analysis framework to manage inflation and promote economic growth. Drawing on the theoretical framework and thesis project learned at GraSPP, I have been able to contribute to macroeconomic forecasting to support policy formulations that address macroeconomic challenges and promote price stability in Laos.
Transitioning from academia to practice has challenges. Policy implementation is complex and conflicts may arise between macroeconomic objectives. However, my analytical skills and global perspective that I have cultivated at GraSPP have been instrumental in overcoming these challenges.
In summary, my time at GraSPP laid a solid foundation for my career in monetary policy. Working at the BoL is relevant to my academic experiences, allowing me to make meaningful contributions to the field. As I continue to grow in my professional journey, I remain grateful for the experiences at GraSPP that have shaped my path.