​Lessons learned and challenges overcome 

Valeria's participation in the Alps Winter School 2025 allowed the UP student to strengthen her capacity for analysis and argumentation in international academic environments. “Receiving feedback from public policy experts enriched my methodological approach and improved the structuring of my research," she noted. 

The sessions she attended also addressed topics such as the construction of public problems, coalition building, and the impact of language and power on decision-making. 

As part of the selection process, Valeria was required to submit a summary of her research, a letter of motivation, and academic references. In her presentation Valeria focused on the clarity and robustness of her arguments, while connecting her findings with theoretical debates and applications in public policymaking. 

One of the most rewarding moments for Valeria was the exchange with researchers from different countries who were studying similar problems from different perspectives. "These discussions expanded my framework of analysis and equipped me with new tools to evaluate the impact of projects such as Chancay Port on territorial and economic development," she said. 

An achievement bearing the seal of the Universidad del Pacífico  

One of the factors that Valeria considers central to her success has been the role of the Universidad del Pacífico in her training, stressing that “the university has provided me with a solid foundation in public policy analysis and rigorous methodological tool."  She also acknowledges the part played by her professors' guidance as well as access to academic discussion spaces. "Being able to count on committed educators who constantly challenge you to improve has been key to my learning process," she added. 

The UP actively promotes the participation of its students in high-level academic events, encouraging the creation of knowledge relevant to the country. "The support of the university and its academic network have been decisive in my being able to access international opportunities like this," said Valeria. 

Valeria also expressed her gratitude to the Center for China and Asia-Pacific Studies (CECHAP) and its specialists for the support they provided during her research. "The CECHAP has been a key space to develop my analysis on the port of Chancay. Its specialists provided me with valuable information, guided me in the focus of my study, and enriched my understanding of the impact of port infrastructure on foreign trade," she explained. 

​Future of the project and next steps 

As for her future plans, Valeria intends to continue and expand her research: "I am planning visits to different ports to carry out a comparative analysis on the impact of port development on local and regional economies."  In addition, she is looking to conduct interviews with experts in international trade, logistics, and public policy, as well as with SME owners who could benefit from or be affected by the growth of Chancay Port. Her goal is to consolidate these findings into an academic paper.

Overall, this experience, has furthered Valeria's academic and professional growth. "This space has motivated me to participate in more international conferences and forums, enriching my vision on the impact of political decisions on society through the exchange of perspectives with experts and academics," said the UP student. 

Valeria's participation in the Alps Winter School 2025 affirms the Universidad del Pacífico's commitment to academic excellence and the development of its students. This achievement reflects not only the talent and efforts of our student but also the commitment of the Universidad del Pacífico to training professionals capable of making an impact in the international arena.