Lauren Yenari

Lauren Yenari is a Master of Science in Foreign Service (MSFS) candidate at Georgetown University, pursuing a concentration in Geoeconomics, Business, and Finance and a certificate in Asian Studies. She earned a B.A. in Economics, International Studies, and Chinese Studies from Rhodes College in 2022 graduating cum laude and receiving multiple distinctions for academic excellence and campus leadership. Her academic and professional interests center on economic statecraft, international trade, and strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific.

Lauren's professional background reflects a strong foundation in applied economic research, policy analysis, and data-driven evaluation. Prior to joining the program, Lauren was a Senior Analyst at Keybridge Research where she developed expertise analyzing complex datasets, translating quantitative findings into compelling narratives, and generating actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders. Her experience spans macroeconomic and trade trend analysis, program evaluation, and the development of analytical tools that track long-term economic resilience and competitiveness.

Lauren's interest in the field is rooted in her early exposure in global affairs as the grandchild of immigrants from Japan, Korea, Palestine, and Egypt. Being raised in a multicultural household helped Lauren gain awareness for how history, conflict, and displacement can shape foreign relations from a very young age. Lauren aims to leverage her interdisciplinary background and personal heritage to contribute to more nuanced policymaking and deepen understanding of the Indo-Pacific. When Lauren is not on campus for class, you can frequently find her at a concert, theater performance, or taking her dog, Hoshi, for a walk.