What were you doing prior to the MSc and why did you opt to do this programme?
Prior to the MSc in Applied Economics, I was working as an editor and researcher for Alternative Policy Solutions, a public policy research centre attached to the American University in Cairo. I loved working alongside economists and wanted to develop the ability to undertake economic analyses myself. I applied for the MSc because I was drawn to the programme’s strong emphasis on data analysis and economic modelling.
What are your thoughts on the programme?
The programme really gave me a strong foundation not only in the data skills economists need, but also the big questions facing economies today. Lecturers made connections between current events and our syllabus, which I found very helpful. The highlights for me are centred on the coursework, which covered really topical issues ranging from energy independence to a universal basic income.
What was your highlight from the programme?
I was lucky to be selected for a placement at the Fraser of Allander Institute. This was a great opportunity where I was tasked with writing an overview of social security spending in Scotland, including the implications of the recent Economic and Fiscal Forecasts, and how much expenditure on social security is expected to increase in the coming years. This experience really helped me hone my skills in telling a complicated story with data and is in a way a microcosm of the whole goal of Applied Economics, where it’s not just about finding and interpreting the economic evidence but translating it for a wider audience.
Have your career plans been influenced by the MSc?
Before undertaking the masters, I was already interested in energy economics, and the course - with its choice of electives like Energy Economics and Energy Technologies - really reinforced this interest. I was really motivated to explore the field further, which led me to my current job. I now work as an Economic Analyst for Stonehaven, a global strategy, policy and advocacy consultancy with deep expertise in energy, sustainability and climate change issues, based in London.