Each year, a new group of research associates (RAs) joins the Economic Research team at the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco (SF Fed), while those who have completed their two-year term move on to further opportunities in academia and industry.
Aren Yalcin will attend the London School of Economics for a master’s program in econometrics and mathematical economics. He plans to pursue an economic research role in industry before enrolling in a PhD program. Aren said, “Working at the SF Fed showed me how economic research can help inform policy recommendations and how policy work can in turn inspire research ideas. For this reason, I intend to combine academic research with various policy and industry roles throughout my career. I am interested in macroeconomics, time-series econometrics, and international finance.”
Brandon Miskanic is set to begin a PhD in economics at the University of Rochester. He stated, “I hope to become a professor researching labor economics. As for my time at the SF Fed, I would highlight the closeness of the RAs and how it has felt like a family.”
Valeska Fresquet Kohan will start her PhD studies at UC Berkeley focusing on environmental urban economics. Valeska commented, “I come to work to find three things: questions, community, and answers. At the SF Fed, I learned that the second is crucial to finding the last. I am lucky to develop as a researcher surrounded by curious peers and mentors who have inspired and guided me along the way. I hope to use this experience as an example to build such learning communities in my next steps.”
River Bell also heads to UC Berkeley for doctoral studies on environmental inequality within economics. River said, “During my time in San Francisco, I have enjoyed mentorship from brilliant economists as well as collaboration with a truly talented cohort of research associates. I am grateful that these past few years have empowered me to continue my education across the Bay.”
Christian Hilgemann will attend Harvard University for his PhD in economics after receiving a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship for his proposal on water markets and agricultural adaptation to climate change. Christian remarked, “I appreciated the opportunity to study interactions between the global economy, climate systems, and the environment.”
Cheikh Fall intends to enroll at MIT’s PhD program in economics. Cheikh said, “My time at the SF Fed played a crucial role in my decision to pursue a research career. I’m especially grateful for the mentorship of the economists I worked with and for the collaborative, supportive community fostered by my fellow RAs.”
Caroline Paulson is entering Emory University School of Law with support from the Dean’s Scholarship for Excellence. Caroline noted, “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the SF Fed – due in large part to the community of RAs and support from economists. I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked on insightful and topical research, and I believe it will shape my interests for years to come.”
Lora Dufresne has taken up a position as research analyst at the Consumer Finance Institute within The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. Lora reflected on her experience: “My time at the SF Fed was meaningful and formative. The position allowed me to explore my research interests, build upon my analysis skills, and gain valuable technical and interpersonal skills that will serve as a foundation for my career. The mentorship and support from both economists and fellow RAs helped guide me to a role where I can continue to pursue research through a new lens.”
Aditi Poduri is joining UC Berkeley’s Center for Effective Global Action as an Assistant Specialist. Aditi said, “I’m very grateful to have worked in such a supportive environment of both economists and RAs and am excited to continue working on impactful research in the years to come.”
Deepika Baskar Prabhakar begins work as an Associate at Charles River Associates in Boston after her tenure with SF Fed Economic Research Department. Deepika shared: “My two years at the SF Fed have been transformative. I have been lucky to have been mentored by so many economists, and they have helped me plan my next steps. Being part of the vibrant and supportive RA community has also been incredible.”
The departing group expressed appreciation for their experiences working alongside professional economists at SF Fed Economic Research Department.
The views expressed by individuals do not necessarily reflect those of management or leadership within either The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco or Board of Governors.
