- Current Graduate Program: Ph.D. in Public Policy
- Concentration/Area of Emphasis: Economic Policy
- Program Schedule: Full-Time
- Delivery Method: In-Person
- Current Employer: Department of Economics
- Position: Teaching Assistant
- Anticipated Graduation: May 2028
- Undergraduate Institution: University of Education, Winneba - Ghana
- Undergraduate Degree: B.A. in Economics
- Favorite Place in Charlotte: Frank Liske Park
- Hometown: Kumasi, Ghana
- Dream Job: Professor
What has been your driving force for enrolling in your degree program?
What primarily inspired me to pursue this route is the fact that I came to understand that "policy is the medicine of every societal problem." As a result, having completed both my bachelor's and master's in economics, equipping me with relevant statistical and economic skill sets, I wanted to get into a field where I would apply these tools to real-life issues and not just go through another traditional curriculum again. Public Policy was the answer to my query; it's a field that, in the long run, I will be fully equipped to contribute to policy discourse through the conduct of evidence-based research to address societal challenges. My career plan is to be well-equipped to take on a role as either a professor or work in policy think tanks and consulting organizations. Thus, this degree is the best fit, and I'm positive the prize is near.
Why did you choose UNC Charlotte over other universities?
It was mainly due to three reasons; firstly, it was due to being able to identify faculty members whom my area of interest aligns with, in terms of welfare economics. Also, the curriculum structure is enriched with rigorously methodological courses, coupled with being able to dive deep into my field of interest in public policy. Lastly, I was awarded a graduate assistantship where I assist Dr. Kelly Vosters and Dr. Lisa Schulkind in the economics department, giving me the opportunity to not just develop professionally, but assist them with courses and research that are cognizant of my growth and career trajectory.
What lessons have you learned in your courses that you could apply on the job?
I'm currently employed at UNC Charlotte, specifically in the economics department, where I serve as a Teaching Assistant. My courses have been instrumental in being able to offer tutoring assistance to students and assist professors with grading and some teaching assignments.
What has been the best part of your academic experience so far?
So far, it's been my teaching assistantship. Being privileged to assist with undergraduate econometrics has been an advantage to not only help the student but strengthen my methodological rigor. Also, my professors have been keen on being able to learn on the job while performing my duties.
Are you involved in any research projects? If so, can you briefly describe your research and its potential impact?
Currently, I have been assisting Dr. Kelly Vosters and Dr. Lisa Schulkind with a project that is looking into intergenerational homeownership in the USA. In a snapshot, studies in the UK and other countries have confirmed that homeownership is a key wealth marker, and as such this study seeks to extend the discourse by using a rich and robust dataset compared to the other datasets used in other studies known as the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) to trace the role of homeownership in intergenerational mobility in the USA. I have been helping with curating some relevant literature and data cleaning duties. Personally, I have been able to extend some of my term papers into "publishable" works where I have looked into how social protection policies contribute to inclusive growth in Sub-Saharan Africa. Another project that is also under review is the impact of cash transfer on labor supply decisions of indebted, vulnerable households and individuals.
How would you describe UNC Charlotte to someone considering a graduate program?
From my experience so far, UNC Charlotte is my "home away from home." Being an international student settling into a different culture is not that rosy considering the cultural dynamics. However, taking a leap step into UNC Charlotte, I found that there's a space for everyone to find their "people" or tribe through various organizations and activities.
Are you involved in any student organizations or clubs? How has your involvement in these organizations enhanced your graduate experience?
I was involved with the Ghanaian Student Association at UNC Charlotte and served as their social media manager. With this role, I was designing flyers, publicizing the association's events, and, of course, managing the social media handles. I'm also a member of the Graduate Public Policy Association (GPPA).
What are some of your favorite activities or places to visit in Charlotte outside of campus?
One of my favorite escapes from the demands of graduate school is Frank Liske Park. There's something incredibly soothing about sitting by the lake, watching the geese glide across the water with such calm. It’s a place where I can truly unwind and find peace amidst the chaos of academic life—I’m completely captivated by its serene beauty.
Have you found any mentors during your time at UNC Charlotte? How have they influenced your academic and professional journey?
Yes, my immediate program director, Dr. Elizabeth Stearns, has been instrumental in making some key academic decisions with her rich and meticulous advice. Also, the predecessors in our program have been helpful as well.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying to your program?
One key piece of advice is to first try and go through the faculty profile and identify the ones whose research interests align with yours. A Ph.D. is beyond coursework, so being able to at least have a glimpse of faculty members interested in what you intend to pursue is the first point of contact. Next, work on your documents in terms of your CV, statement of purpose (pour your heart into it; avoid generic essays), reference letters, transcript, degree certificate, and any other relevant required document.