"An Incredible Learning Experience" - Economics STUdents Participate in Bank of Canada Governor's Challenge
A group of economics STUdents put their in-class learning to work competing against Canadian universities in the Bank of Canada Governor's Challenge.
The Governor's Challenge simulates the monetary policy decision-making process by putting students in the role of advisors to the Bank's Governing Council.
"Taking part in this challenge allowed me to demonstrate the abilities that STU promotes – collaboration, public speaking, and the ability to understand complicated texts," said third-year STUdent and principal researcher Kate Haché.
The students' research for the challenge included the effects of immigration and inflation on topics like interest rates, housing, and unemployment.
Third-year STUdent and researcher for the challenge, Alejandra Baca, noted the experience heightened her research and public speaking skills, along with her understanding of economics.
"Participating in the challenge was an incredible learning experience. It was especially rewarding to see how what we learned in class applied to real-life situations and how our skills improved throughout the challenge," said Baca.
"This opportunity was amazing because I got to meet with very knowledgeable people who helped me improve my knowledge of economics."
A Stepping Stone for Future STUdents
Economics professor Dr. Fariba Solati introduced the opportunity to students as an extracurricular activity. Haché then assembled a team of fellow students who would act as researchers and research assistants, hoping that entering the competition this year would create a stepping stone for students to participate in this challenge annually.
“As someone who is interested in honouring in economics, I find this experience crucial for my time as a student,” said Haché.
“This challenge has equipped me with the tools necessary to read graphs, understand long-run macro principles, and appreciate the interconnectedness of macroeconomic factors. I now feel more prepared to write a thesis using complicated material.”
Principal Researcher: Kate Haché
Researchers: Alejandra Baca, Elias Stiphout, Itamar Santos Filho
Research Assistants: Matthew Oprea, Nicole Vera Giler, James Brennan, Alberto Chavez
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Fariba Solati