However, Phineas Kiprop, a junior with an Economics and Mathematics double major, has always been passionate about going to graduate school and learning more about how our economy works.
As a student in Ariuna Taivan’s Intermediate Economics class last fall, Kiprop learned about the American Economic Association summer program (AEASP) from Taivan, who is the director of LSBE’s MBA programs and the associate professor of Economics.
Kiprop applied to AEASP and was accepted!
A prestigious program, AEASP brings together talented undergraduate students from across the country to study economics and prepare for graduate school and research careers.
“If it weren’t for Dr. Taivan, I would not have known about this unique opportunity,” said Kiprop.
Held at Howard University in Washington, DC, AEASP includes courses taught by prominent economists and researchers from leading institutions across the globe. Also, students will conduct research with major public organizations and federal agencies, such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Congressional Budget Office, and the U.S. Census Bureau.
“AEASP is a unique opportunity to learn from some of the best and brightest minds in economics.,” said Kiprop. “The program provides a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, which are essential areas of study for pursuing a Ph.D. in economics.
“Being a part of this program, which starts on May 25, will be a great learning experience, and it will help me stand out when I apply to grad school,” added Kiprop. “If I had to decide on a career plan, it would be getting a Ph.D. in developmental economics at MIT or following my childhood dream of being a judge. Although, I’m open to any career opportunities that come from this program.”
Kiprop’s interests have also led him to be involved in UMD’s student government.
“In the Student Government Association, I chair the Academic Affairs Committee where we discuss policy changes and academic issues and host programs to support the student body.”
One such program is the upcoming Late Library Night on April 26 for students as they transition from the end of classes into final’s week.
“Students can stop by the library at 6:00 p.m.,” said Kiprop. “There will be mountains of free snacks and some activities to help reduce stress before going back to studying.”