Dual Degree Aspirations: MSc in Applied Economics (CUHK) & MS in Social and Economic Policy (Northwestern University)

Growing up as the daughter of the first secretary of a village in the North China Plain, I have witnessed firsthand the impact of development on my father's village. This experience has deeply connected me to the progress and transformation of the village, from a run-down area to a prosperous community. This journey has been an inspiration for me, and it has fueled my curiosity and ambition to understand the causes of poverty and find ways to lift rural people out of impoverishment.

To pursue my aspirations, I made the decision to transfer to the Institute for Economic and Social Research (IESR) in my sophomore year. This choice has proven to be the most correct decision I have made in the past twenty years. At IESR, I have had the opportunity to explore poverty-related issues and acquire a solid foundation in economics. I have completed courses in advanced microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics, and econometrics, and I have developed proficiency in mathematics. Additionally, I have acquired programming skills using software such as Stata and Python, and I have completed a comprehensive research paper on the health impact of fine particulate matter in China.

In my exploration of poverty-related issues, I have attended lectures on rural revitalization and studied various research papers. For example, I have read about the cycle of poverty and the importance of breaking this cycle, as well as the impact of conditional and unconditional cash transfers on education levels and the welfare of young women. I have also explored the household responsibility system and its contribution to agricultural growth in China. Furthermore, I have delved into the effect of microinsurance on economic activities and its positive impact on farmers' sow production.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have actively served as a research assistant and teaching assistant, assisting professors in their research and teaching. These experiences have further enriched my understanding of economics and allowed me to apply my knowledge in practical settings.

The Dual Degree - MSc in Applied Economics at CUHK and MS in Social and Economic Policy at Northwestern University is the ideal program for me to further enhance my knowledge and skills in economics and policy studies. The CUHK Department of Economics is renowned for its leading research on Chinese economic issues, which aligns with my interests in poverty alleviation and rural revitalization. Northwestern University's School of Education and Social Policy, on the other hand, will provide me with a comprehensive understanding of social, educational, and economic policy studies.

My ultimate goal is to become a policy maker in civil service and contribute to rural revitalization. I believe that understanding the essence of poverty and formulating appropriate policies are crucial in helping individuals escape poverty and prosper rural areas. I am eager to pursue the Dual Degree program because I believe it will provide me with the necessary support and opportunities to achieve my goals.

In conclusion, I am determined to make a difference in my father's village and countless other villages, families, and young individuals. The Dual Degree - MSc in Applied Economics at CUHK and MS in Social and Economic Policy at Northwestern University will equip me with the knowledge and skills to become a successful policy maker. I am confident that this program is the right path for me, and I am excited about the opportunities it will bring.