Uyen Le’s 2024 Annual Conference Student Scholar Reflection
Uyen Le
Finance and Accounting Major, Seattle University
Transitioning from a biology background to a finance career has been an eye-opening journey for me. Last summer, during my internship at the Port of Seattle, I gained invaluable insights into organizational operations and the crucial role of risk management. Participating in meetings and listening to discussions about strategic risk assessment and mitigation strategies captivated me. Witnessing how these measures could effectively safeguard the Port's assets and operations sparked a newfound passion within me for risk management. This experience motivated me to delve deeper into understanding the dynamics of risk management.
This newfound passion and interest ultimately led me to pursue further opportunities for learning and growth. When I learned about the chance to become a student scholar and attend the 2024 PRIMA Annual Conference in Nashville, I saw it as a golden opportunity to expand my knowledge and connect with experts in the field. Attending such a prestigious conference would allow me to deepen my understanding of risk management practices, network with industry leaders and explore innovative strategies.
During the conference, I was filled with excitement and anticipation as I navigated through sessions and workshops led by industry experts. Each session offered a unique perspective on risk management, covering interesting topics such as the Passion Effect, the history of risk management, emerging trends and cyber security. The opportunity to learn directly from leaders at their fields' forefront was inspiring and educational. Moreover, networking at the conference was instrumental in broadening my understanding of risk management across industries. Engaging with professionals not only provided invaluable insights into current industry trends but also offered invaluable mentorship opportunities. Discussions with fellow attendees, including other student scholars, fostered an environment where diverse perspectives enriched my passion for the field.
Beyond the enriching learning sessions, exploring Tennessee added a captivating cultural dimension to my conference experience. Immersing myself in Nashville's vibrant music scene and rich history offered a refreshing perspective that complemented the intensive learning atmosphere. From visiting iconic music venues to discovering the city's historical landmarks, every moment outside the conference venue added to my appreciation of Nashville's unique cultural heritage.
Looking ahead, the insights gained from the 2024 PRIMA conference have reinforced my commitment to pursuing a career where I can effectively navigate uncertainties and foster organizational resilience. I am eager to apply the knowledge and strategies learned to contribute meaningfully to the field of risk management. This experience has also motivated me to continue seeking opportunities for professional development and growth, including further education and networking within the industry. Overall, the conference exceeded my expectations by providing a comprehensive and immersive experience that deepened my appreciation for the complexities and opportunities within risk management. It has undoubtedly shaped my career aspirations and equipped me with valuable insights that will guide my future endeavors in the field.
*The views and opinions expressed in the Public Risk Management Association (PRIMA) blogs are those of each respective author. The views and opinions do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of PRIMA.*
By: Uyen Le
Finance and Accounting Major, Seattle University
Uyen is a graduate student at Seattle University majoring in finance and accounting, having previously graduated from St. John’s University with a degree in biology. Her unconventional transition from a biology background to the field of business stems from her desire to directly assist people, recognizing the importance of finance in shaping our lives. During her previous internship at the Port of Seattle, her interest in risk management was piqued while researching capitalization policies at airports nationwide to assess their financial viability. Her goal is to apply her unique experiences, perspectives and knowledge to assist individuals and businesses in navigating challenges and achieving success. In her free time, she enjoys contributing to the Vietnamese community through teaching and serving as a portfolio analyst for the Redhawk Fund Team at her school.
