MA in Economics

Guleena Khan, 2019

Guleena Khan

What made you interested in studying economics?

I grew up travelling to different countries, like East Timor, Australia, Thailand, Indonesia etc. I could not fail to notice the difference in the standard of living of each place I travelled to. Originating from Pakistan, this contrast remained ever present. The study of economics helped shed light on the question I had been asking everyone around me. My interest in the field of economics has only grown since then.

What have you enjoyed about studying economics at Mason?

Austrian Economics was introduced to me at GMU. It was a completely new perspective (for me). Simultaneously it is very relevant at present. How can one move away from such logic, once being exposed to it? I will never know. I learn something new out of every class, be it from my teachers or from my class fellows. The environment set for students of economics at GMU, nurtures and allows them to flourish.

What kinds of opportunities have been available to you while being at Mason?

Having full time access to the economics faculty at GMU, is an opportunity unlike any other. There is a constant flurry of activities and conferences for students to attend. I had the opportunity to sit through a lecture by Nobel Laureate Vernon Smith, during my first semester! I know for a fact that many other, such opportunities will come up as my degree progresses.

What do you like about Mason?

Starting my graduate degree at GMU was a big step for me as it was a completely new system of administration and education. What really surprised me was that every student, faculty member as well as members of the administration that I met, went out of their way to help me settle in. This easy transition allowed me to focus on my studies more.

What are your career goals after graduation? How do you think your degree will prepare you for your career goals?

Having been mainly interested in Institutional and Development Economics I plan on working at one of the International organizations such as the IMF, the World Bank, or the United Nations. GMU is helping in preparing me for the public sector especially in understanding policy making and policy analysis.

What advice do you have for prospective students?

My advice for prospective students would be to make most of the unique school of thought taught here at George Mason, having some of the best minds in the fields of Public Choice and Austrian Economics the opportunities here should not be overlooked.