The TSP Journey – Alumni Voices
Every year, ambitious teens from the WBG families apply for a coveted spot in our Teen Summer Program (TSP), and a select few get to experience it firsthand. But what makes this program so special? We caught up with two alumni from last year's TSP 2025 program to find out. From the nerves before arriving to the moments that changed their perspective, they share the real story of their TSP journey; from the surprises, the challenges, to the experiences they'll carry with them for years to come.
What prompted you to apply for the TSP and what were you hoping to gain from the program?
Alvaro Dajani Caceres
The main factor that made me apply was my passion for development and expanding my understanding about the role of these institutions, which I started learning about at school. Moreover, the program offered a great opportunity to interact with professionals in an area I enjoy and it gave me the chance to meet and collaborate with other passionate teens like myself.
Shahmeer Sajid
I first learned about the TSP on a cold December day when my parents told me about the opportunity. The idea of a summer program hosted by globally recognized institutions such as the World Bank, IMF, and IDB immediately caught my attention, prompting me to research the program further. I explored the eligibility criteria, the selection process, and the experiences of past participants.
Having never attended a structured summer program before, I saw the TSP as the perfect chance to challenge myself and broaden my horizons. My primary goals were to strengthen my résumé, build a more competitive academic and professional profile, and deepen my understanding of international development institutions. I also hoped to form meaningful connections with peers from around the world — expectations the program not only met but exceeded.
What were your initial expectations from the program, did you have any preconceptions? What was it like being there with the other participants?
Alvaro Dajani Caceres
Before starting the program, I was expecting to learn about the various projects currently being undertaken and through this, learn about ways to address some of the world’s biggest issues. Also, I was curious to learn what a day-to-day of a professional working in these institutions looks like. Being with participants from different parts of the world was an amazing experience that inspired me to challenge myself and get the most out of the program. Moreover, through the questions asked by my peers, their different perspectives, and the daily conversations, I developed a greater curiosity and deepened my understanding of the various topics we learned about.
Shahmeer Sajid
Before joining the program, I reached out to several TSP alumni, all of whom spoke highly of the experience. Their feedback set my expectations very high. Even so, the program exceeded them from the very first day.
Walking into a room with forty bright, talented teens from across the globe was both exciting and inspiring. Although I had never met any of them before, many participants already seemed comfortable with each other, engaging in thoughtful discussions and sharing their backgrounds. Before the program had even officially begun, we had introduced ourselves, broken the ice, and started forming genuine connections. The diversity of experiences and perspectives within the group enriched every discussion and made the environment both welcoming and intellectually stimulating.
Can you share an experience from the program that stood out to you? Something you learned that you never expected. Tell us your story!
Alvaro Dajani Caceres
One of my most memorable experiences of the TSP was when we undertook our projects at the IDB, where my team focused on the education sector. By collaborating with the professionals at the IDB, we were introduced to an ongoing project in Suriname. Through the days we worked on it, I was able to learn much more about a country I knew very little about. By the end, I had a good understanding of its spatial patterns, the possible sources of energy it could use, and its development challenges. This experience gave me my first insight into how these institutions design and implement well-thought out projects and fueled my interest in the world of development.
Shahmeer Sajid
One of the most memorable and unexpected experiences for me was taking a salsa class at the IDB. It was something I never imagined myself doing, yet it turned out to be an unforgettable and enjoyable activity. Remarkably, I still remember most of the steps today.
Another standout experience was the group project at the IMF. I was placed with a highly knowledgeable team, and working with them taught me a great deal about effective presentations, economic concepts, and collaborative problem solving. Beyond the structured program, we frequently met outside of sessions, forming strong friendships and creating memories I truly cherish. These moments were not something I had anticipated before attending, and they became some of the highlights of my summer.
How has being part of TSP affected you? Any skills, perspectives you gained that you've actively used since completing the program?
Alvaro Dajani Caceres
Being part of the TSP has affected me greatly, not only have I explored and developed a greater interest in an area that I want to pursue in the future, I have also created some great relationships that I would not have made without the program. Throughout the weeks, I learned the importance of asking good questions and I improved my collaboration and creative-thinking skills throughout the different projects and activities, now actively implementing these skills in my final year of high school. I also learned the holistic nature of development projects created by the institutions and the importance of having multiple perspectives to spot early on any potential challenges and the impact it can have on the communities. Currently, while applying to universities, a number of interviewers have requested to know more about the TSP and why I chose it so it has allowed me to explain my interest in the field of development.
Shahmeer Sajid
The TSP equipped me with a wide range of practical and professional skills. From delivering a polished elevator pitch to understanding how credit scores work, effectively using AI, grasping the basics of economic management, and even practicing self defense — the program was comprehensive and transformative.
More importantly, the TSP taught me how to navigate professional environments and network confidently. Since returning to Pakistan, I have applied these skills consistently and have noticed a positive shift in the way people engage with me. The program also provided valuable guidance on career planning and university preparation, which is incredibly beneficial for students entering their senior academic years.
Before the TSP, my knowledge of institutions like the World Bank, IMF, and IDB came only from newspapers or the news. The program gave me a practical understanding of their operations, structures, funding mechanisms, and overarching missions. This exposure significantly broadened my perspective on global economic development.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering applying for the next TSP, what would it be?
Alvaro Dajani Caceres
Do not hesitate, apply! You will learn and experience what it is like to make a real positive impact in communities and how these institutions play a key role in reducing poverty and supporting economic development. Moreover, being in an environment like the one the TSP provides is very special and the three weeks will allow you to get really close with your peers and by the end of it, make great connections that I still nurture.
Shahmeer Sajid
If you are considering applying to the TSP, I strongly encourage you to go for it. It is an exceptional opportunity that you will not regret. If selected, make the most of every moment — be proactive, engage with people, and step outside your comfort zone. Talk to your peers, learn from them, build connections, and try to plan meet ups outside the program as well.
The TSP is truly a remarkable experience, and I wish I could participate in something like it again. For anyone who gives it their best and earns a spot in the program: congratulations. An exciting and transformative journey awaits you.