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When introduced to economics in high school I
realized that it interestingly qualified as a subject of both Arts and
Science. It was an area defined by precise rules, principles and axioms
and yet there was tremendous scope for self-expression in the form of
interpretation and analysis. This facet of economics intrigued me very
much and I decided to pursue further studies in Economics.
During my Master's program I equipped myself as
best as I could, with various tools used in economic analysis. I
obtained rigorous training in mathematics, econometrics and game
theory. After completing the Master's program, I joined National
Institute of Public Finance and Policy, as I was very eager to see how one might use economics to tackle real life
problems, where simplified models, and assuming away of problems may
offer no respite. I did some very interesting work here, which is
described in my resume. I want to delve deeper into the subject
to be able to carry out independent research and analysis, hence my
decision to join the Ph.D. program at UCLA.
International Economics is an area I would really
like to explore. I am fascinated by game theoretic modeling of issues
pertaining to International Economics. I believe that game theoretic
models can be effectively used in international economics as many
policy issues such as negotiations over mutual reductions in tariffs,
formation and preservation of customs unions, establishment of cartels
in the case of internationally traded goods, all have some game
theoretic character.
The current "Regionalism versus Multilateralism"
debate holds its own attraction. It should be interesting to
analyze the trade diversion effects of Preferential Trading Agreements
and also their impact on multilateral institutions like GATT. The
strategic trading that takes place in foreign exchange markets and the
variety of auction like mechanisms that have been used for foreign
exchange trade, especially in developing countries, are intriguing.
During my graduate studies I aim to equip myself
with some advanced tools and develop my analytical and research
capabilities. I want to get an excellent command over econometrics to
be able to confront stochastic statistical data with exact models of
economic theories and also for empirical verification of other models,
which might otherwise be set in a partial equilibrium framework.
I expect to emerge as an economic engineer and an expert in model
building.Econometrics per se, also interests me as a subject of
economics and I might like to research in econometric methodology. I
want to be an academic economist. I have cleared the National
Eligibility test conducted by the University Grants Commission of
India, which makes me eligible to teach an undergraduate course in
economics in any Indian university.
I want to study at UCLA, as it emphasizes on the
rigor and analytical tools that are necessary for academic research. I
have well-developed analytical and mathematical skills and I want to
exploit these skills to the greatest extent. I feel the help and
guidance that can be provided to me by the distinguished faculty of
your university will be invaluable. I am sure if I am given the
opportunity to study at your university that attracts some of the best
students from all over the world, it will provide an environment
competitive enough to bring out the best in me.
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