Name: Bianca Onwukwe '16
Title: Junior Stanley S. Surrey Fellow
Employer: the U.S. Department of the Treasury
Major: Economics
What do you enjoy most about your current position?
I truly love the fact that I work in a space that is intellectually demanding, and one that allows for personal and professional growth. I also enjoy the collaborative nature of my job. I’ve worked with both Economists and Lawyers. It’s exciting to work on a variety of policy projects, which gives me the opportunity to learn something new and diversify my skill set.
What is a typical day like in your position?
A typical day as a Surrey fellow includes working on various policy projects that require data processing, manipulation, and analysis using various statistical packages. It also includes conducting literature reviews, assisting Economists with economic research, and providing office-wide administrative support. Lastly, it includes a number of meetings to discuss research projects or data tasks.
How has your coursework helped you in your current position (i.e. quantitative skills, research techniques, communication skills)?
In regards to quantitative research skills, the majority of the coursework I took as an Economics major helped me tremendously in both my internship experiences and my current position as a Surrey Fellow. However, the two courses that helped me the most were Computer Methods in Economics* and Economic Statistics
Which undergraduate experiences (i.e. internships, on-campus leadership, living learning communities, faculty member, etc.) did you find most helpful in preparing you for your current position?
My internships at the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Maryland General Assembly provided invaluable experiences and a unique skill set that definitely prepared me (mentally and professionally) for my current position.
Any job or internship advice for students seeking a position in your field?
Definitely take advantage of the infinite amount of opportunities that the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences and the Department of Economics has to offer! Apply early and do not limit yourself! Anything else you want to share with undergraduates? Work harder than you did yesterday and remember to acknowledge your achievements. Good luck! *This course is now ECON424 Applied Econometrics
