Why did you choose the Scottish Graduate Programme in Economics?
I chose the SGPE because I wanted a challenge. The SGPE offers rigorous training in core economics classes (microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics) and I am very grateful for the problem-solving skills that the core macro and micro classes equipped me with.
Something that I was really keen to improve on during my masters studies was my econometric analysis capabilities and the SGPE provides STATA lab training which is extremely useful for economic analysis and research.
I have always been on the fence when it comes to doing a PhD and so I chose the SGPE because it offers high level economics training, equipping you with the skills needed for PhD programmes at top universities across the world.
What attracted you to this programme in particular?
The main reason I chose to study on the SGPE was because of the choices available to MSc. Students.
The SGPE is hosted by Edinburgh University however, it is a collaboration between eight incredible Scottish universities. Because of this, the SGPE offers a really wide range of optional classes in semester two. I was able to take classes in Economic Policy, Development Economics and Economic History and these were taught by lecturers at the University of Strathclyde, St Andrews, Aberdeen, etc. Therefore, it was really great to be taught by such a diverse team of academics and I wouldn’t have received this method of teaching had I studied elsewhere.
Additionally, my research areas include income and earning inequalities and inclusive growth and because the SGPE is a collaborative programme I was able to have my dissertation supervised by a professor at Strathclyde University with research interests similar to mine.
What did you enjoy most about your time here?
My favourite memory of studying at Edinburgh was the city, particularly visiting the Christmas Market at Princes Street Gardens after my semester one exams. Edinburgh is an extremely beautiful, vibrant and diverse city and there is so much fun to be had after you finish a day of studying in the MSc. Lab!
What are your plans for the future?
I studied on the MSc. Programme part-time whilst working as a research assistant at the Fraser of Allander Institute (FAI), an economic research institute at Strathclyde University. Since graduating from the University of Edinburgh I have been promoted to a research associate and I am currently involved in various commissioned research projects at the institute, particularly those involving regional policy analysis and input-output (IO) modelling. I also lecture on the Economics of Inequality and Inclusive Growth, Regional Development Policy and Professional Development for Economists courses (Strathclyde's Applied Economics MSc) and I supervise Strathclyde MSc. dissertations on topics related to income and earning inequalities and inclusive growth.
My career does not just revolve around economics as I am also the Co-Chair of StrathPride: Strathclyde University’s LGBTQI+ Staff & PGR Network. I feel really passionately about increasing diversity, not only in the economics profession but across all of academia and this new role has allowed me to meet some really interesting people across all disciplines.
My plan for the future is to continue contributing to economic research that has a real impact and working towards making economics a more inclusive profession.
Update: Adam now works for the Bank of England.
If you could offer any advice to new or current students, what would it be?
For those interested in part-time study, I strongly recommend it.
Working as an applied economist whilst studying on the SGPE course allowed me to learn the fundamental theories in macroeconomics, microeconomics and econometrics whilst also giving me experience in the practical side of things – writing policy reports, dealing with clients, etc.
Doing the SGPE part-time meant that I graduated from Edinburgh University with a very well-rounded view of economics.