Sarah studied for a master's in Development Economics at City, University of London, and graduated in 2016.
What do you do now? What do you enjoy about what you do?
I am a Government Economic Service Assistant Economist. I provide economic analysis to support the development of new policies in the Higher Education sector, I analyse of the supply-side of the sector, in particular, around how the sector will look following reforms, institutional behaviours and the extent and nature of competition. I am also providing analysis on EU students and staff and education exports.
I enjoy the wide variety of work that I undertake, although the work can be very challenging, and at times gains a lot of media attention, I enjoy seeing the effect my day to day work has on government policy and its wider reaching effects to other aspects of the education sector and beyond.
What path have you taken to get there? Were there any particular areas of interest that lead to you specialising?
I studied Politics and Economics at undergraduate level, which gave me a passion for the political system and made me want to work in an area that could effect policy. However, my masters course at City gave me the deeper analytical skills needed to carry out my role effectively.
Why did you choose to study at City, University of London and how has it helped you?
I chose to study at city because it offered the a Development course, I wanted to study modules that would allow me to understand how economic analysis can be used in real world situations in order to bring about change and influence good policy making. The Development Economics course offered modules on development, welfare and microfinance, giving me a greater knowledge of practical economics.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
I enjoyed the wide variety of modules that were available to choose from, allowing me to tailor my course in a way that best suited my strengths and my desired career path.
What was the hardest part of your course?
At times the course was very challenging, and I particularly struggled with Macroeconomics, but fellow students and staff were always available to help.
What was your favourite part of being a City Student?
The diversity of the student body.
If you could give one piece of advice to a prospective City Development Economics student, what would it be?
Get involved, engage with the course material (readings and lectures), and if you are ever unsure of anything just ask! Lecturers and other students are always willing to help.
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