Master of Arts in International Policy Studies

IPSS Assignment: The World Bank – Washington D.C.

Azam was born and raised in the second largest city of Tajikistan – Khujand. His father Khatam was a professor at a prominent University, and his mother Sharofat, was a teacher at the local elementary school. His parents’ academic achievements motivated Azam to excel in his studies and reinforced his understanding of science, mathematics, physics, geometry, and economics. He got his Bachelor’s degree in English and German languages from Khujand State University. After graduating, Azam worked as a management analyst in the private sector and won a Fulbright Scholarship to study International Trade at the Monterey Institute.

While at the Monterey Institute, Azam studied international trade issues focusing on cotton exports and Latin America, becoming an expert on both subjects. He was also an active member in the International Trade and Negotiations club.

For the past six months, Azam interned at the World Bank. While in DC, he attended networking events and discussed international trade issues with experienced executives. Azam worked with his IPSS teammates, Boris Chumak and Noah Lichtenstein, creating a research project on U.S. Policy Options for Mitigating the Negative Impacts of Climate Change. Azam’s interest in Latin America shaped his research project which aims to address U.S.’s inefficient policy regarding ethanol imports. Azam’s position at the World Bank exposed him to experts familiar with the subject of his research and he is especially grateful to his supervisor Darlene Christopher, who helped him develop an extensive network of private and public sector international trade professionals.

After graduation, Azam is planning to work for an international agency dealing with trade issues. After gaining experience, he plans to join the private sector as an expert consultant on trade issues.