Berna Yılmaz, a fourth-year economics student at Galatasaray University, has achieved a historic selection as the sole representative of Turkey among the 16 students chosen for the 2026 World Bank Treasury Summer Internship program.
Today, July 12, 2026, the Turkish academic and financial world witnesses the international achievement of one of its young elites. Berna Yılmaz, a talented economics student, has successfully secured a place among thousands of applicants worldwide in the final list of 16 for the World Bank's prestigious Treasury Summer Internship [1]. This program, held at the World Bank headquarters in Washington D.C., is recognized as one of the most competitive training courses for preparing the world's future financial leaders [3].
A Path from Excellence to International Institutions Berna Yılmaz, who previously proved her capabilities by ranking 837th in the 2022 Turkish national university entrance exam, is known as a "Superior Success" scholar of the Turkish Education Foundation (TEV) [2]. Raised in a family with banking and military backgrounds, she spent her entire education in public schools and has always pursued ambitious goals with great perseverance. Regarding this success, she states that since her first year of university, her goal was to join the World Bank, and she planned and worked continuously for over two and a half years to reach this position [1].
Preparing for Leadership in the Financial World The World Bank Treasury Internship is not just a simple course; this 10-week program is designed to familiarize top students with the complexities of development economics and macro-level financial management. Berna began her activities in Washington on May 26, 2026, and is currently focusing on projects aimed at enhancing social welfare through sustainable economic models [2]. Her presence as the only representative of Turkey in this group of 16 demonstrates the high level of knowledge and readiness of the country's young elites for the global stage.
Academic Diplomacy and Dual Education One of the key factors in Berna's success has been utilizing international educational opportunities. In addition to studying at Galatasaray University, she is receiving a dual degree in economics through a joint program with Sorbonne University in France [1]. Her proficiency in foreign languages and experience in Erasmus+ projects in Macedonia built a solid resume that caught the attention of the World Bank selection committee. This achievement is not only a personal success but also a testament to the capability of Turkey's elite educational system to compete with the world's top universities [2].
Berna Yılmaz, a fourth-year economics student, undergoing a specialized financial leadership course at the World Bank headquarters.
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- Dünya Bankası’nın seçtiği 16 öğrenci arasına girdi... Berna geleceğin finans lideri — Hürriyet (2026-07-12)
- Berna Yılmaz Dünya Bankası Stajına Kabul Edildi — Bölge Gündemi (2026-07-12)
- World Bank Treasury Summer Internship Program — World Bank (2026-01-19)
