Why did you choose graduate school at IUPUI?
I chose IUPUI's economics graduate program due to its focus on research in health economics, supported by exceptional faculty. The welcoming and collaborative atmosphere within the department also played a significant role in my decision. A compelling combination of academic excellence, research opportunities, and a supportive community at IUPUI led to my decision to choose graduate school here.
What has been your favorite academic accomplishment since you’ve been here?
Throughout my academic journey at IUPUI, I've had the privilege of engaging in my passion for teaching and research within the field of economics. Achieving a balance between these pursuits has been personally rewarding. Alongside the guidance from supportive academic mentors and advisors, receiving the Carlin Award for Outstanding Graduate Student Paper in Empirical Economics and being honored with the Robert B. Harris Graduate Teaching Recognition Scholarship in Economics have been significant milestones in affirming my dedication to both research and education.
What do you enjoy most about life in Indianapolis?
I appreciate Indy for its welcoming and helpful communities, where kindness is a way of life. The diverse atmosphere creates a sense of belonging for everyone. There's a wealth of enjoyable activities to explore, from cultural events to outdoor adventures, making everyday life vibrant and fulfilling. It's the friendly atmosphere, great friendships, inclusivity, and variety of activities that make living here an enjoyable experience.
Please provide some details about your work/research as a graduate student and/or any activities you are involved in.
My research focus encompasses Applied Econometrics, Health Economics, and Health Services Research, particularly in developing and applying econometric methods for health policy analysis and causal inference, specifically in count data modeling involving endogeneity. Presenting my work at renowned conferences, including investigations into fertility and population studies, and the effects of marijuana consumption and legalization on adolescent health, has been a highlight. Alongside my academic pursuits, the internship opportunity at a multi-family housing firm through IUPUI allowed me to apply my econometrics knowledge to real-world research projects, gaining valuable insights into industry challenges. The coursework and research experiences, supported by inspirational faculty mentors, have thoroughly prepared me for my envisioned career path as both an educator and a researcher.