Having recently graduated with an MSc in Economics from Reading, Abirah is currently working as an economic adviser in the area of trade remedies in the UK. Within the world of international trade, trade remedies focus on the assessment of whether tariffs should be recommended for specific products due to dumped goods and/or subsidised imports into the UK or a sudden surge in imports to the UK.
Following her undergraduate studies, she went straight into the world of work and, therefore, she recognised the need to brush up on her basic economics knowledge that she hadn’t used in a while.
“Economics at Reading did just that, where intermediate Microeconomics and Macroeconomics modules could be picked before moving onto the more advanced material in separate modules. This allowed me to tailor my learning in a way that I was most comfortable, which was especially important to me as I was working full time while completing the MSc part time.”
Understand Development Economics
Abirah has always been interested in how institutions can shape the trajectory of an economy.
“I loved how the Development Economics module was designed where literature was shared on various topics each week, which provided a broad range of views under each topic area. For example, the institutional literature has predominantly focused on the model of developed Western countries and how developing countries can learn from these models to drive economic growth/progress.
However, there are some credible challenges to this thinking which were explored in this module under this topic. I loved how we were able to critique and debate different ideas.”
Boost your career
In her role, Abirah has exposure to what is happening in the wider international trade arena, which is extremely useful, and she can explore areas of interest through learning and development opportunities. The MSc has made her think about where she wants to take her career in the future.
“It reminded me of the passion that I have for development economics and political economy, especially when I was writing my dissertation as this was the focus. I am keen to explore future opportunities in trade and development, international relations or, potentially, a more public policy-focused role.”
One useful thing that Abirah has taken forward to her job from her experience at Reading is the importance of the ‘economist’s toolbox’ in contributing to the conversation/debate.
“Every profession has their own toolbox, and it is important to value the knowledge and skills that different individuals bring to the table. I understand the value that I can bring as an economist in my job as well as recognising that others can complement my skills and contribute ideas/perspectives that I may have missed.”
