How are you applying your degree in Economics from Concordia?
For my current role, I implement the revenue optimization methodology where I propose new ways of capturing the value and pricing of products and services offered by the bank, to ensure that we’re generating value today and obtaining growth in the future. Therefore data analysis skills are very important to my mandate, as well as applying a good quantity of statistical topics, to ensure the reliability of results.
What do you value most from your Economics experience?
The self-discipline I learned when I had to study by myself while everyone else seemed to be more used to this. That’s because most of the other students in the master’s program were really young and very few of them had the type of work experience that I did, where working as a team and group discussions are key for success.
Also, having Professor Bryan Campbell as an instructor. His dark sense of humor was enjoyable! He just had a special way to explain things and he would relate class topics to real life situations. He would always welcome conversations in his office hours, and he had an ability to simplify complex math theories.
Is there a particular memory that stands out from your time at Concordia?
Long study nights during exam periods, with lots of coffee and cigarette breaks!
One of the most vivid memories I have from this time is when I surprised my classmates the moment they realized that I was going to submit my graduation paper before them…they did not think I could make it as early as I did. I’m thankful to a couple of friends for helping me get there – we were patient and willing to work as a team in order to help each other achieve our goals.
What advice would you give to someone considering graduate studies in Economics?
The best piece of advice I could give is to get ready to study several, very challenging subjects that will give you a thorough understanding of economics. Despite the challenge, it is absolutely worth putting in the effort because it will help you develop deep analytical skills, as well as a critical point of view that will enrich your discussions and understanding of different topics in this field. Also, building a good study group is key to pushing each other forward and to better understand what you learn in class.