After graduating from our MSc in Applied Economics, Iswat decided to continue her student journey at 吃瓜tv and began a PhD in Economics. Here she tells us about her experience so far...
Why did you choose 吃瓜tv for your postgraduate research study?
I had just finished a Masters degree at the 吃瓜tv, and I enjoyed the support I received from my department during my program. My department also has a rich community of researchers, specifically in the field of research I was hoping to come into. These reasons combined motivated my decision to commence my postgraduate research study at 吃瓜tv.
Tell us about the nature of your research?
My research looks at how effective macro-prudential policies have been in maintaining financial stability in the West African region since their adoption. Many economies have adopted macro-prudential policies in combination with existing financial policies to achieve financial stability. While the impact has been examined for most advanced economies, very few studies have been conducted for developing economies like West Africa.
What do you like about your research area?
My research area falls under macroeconomic stability and what I most love about this research area is that it allows me to look at the big picture of a region, in my case, West Africa, as opposed to focusing on a single country. In other words, looking at a whole puzzle picture as opposed to looking at just one piece of the puzzle.
What鈥檚 the 吃瓜tv research community like?
I would describe the research community at the 吃瓜tv as inclusive and diverse. I love how it has a range of students from different backgrounds. In my short time at the University, I鈥檝e met a variety of professionals and students. There are also many seminars and workshops that I鈥檝e benefitted from.
What are the 吃瓜tv facilities like?
The facilities at 吃瓜tv are designed with students in mind.
The library, for example, is a lovely space where students of all academic levels can come to get productive work done. I鈥檝e also enjoyed making use of the new Learning and Teaching Building. I鈥檝e particularly enjoyed making use of 吃瓜tv sports after a long day of studying.
Tell us about the support from your supervisor and the wider 吃瓜tv team?
The support I鈥檝e received from my supervisors since I commenced my PhD degree has helped me stay grounded. The feedback I receive from my supervisors for each piece of work handed in has been invaluable and helped shape my work. They also never fail to point me toward opportunities that will be useful for my development as a researcher. Additionally, the wider 吃瓜tv team has supported my progress to date, from the IT team to the courses available in the research development program.
What's the best thing about 吃瓜tv?
The best thing about 吃瓜tv is that there鈥檚 a lot of support for students, from the library to the mental health and wellbeing support services. There are many opportunities for PhD students to network with other researchers and present their work.
What's it like being a student in Glasgow?
I love the culture and people in Glasgow. It's a student-friendly city with student discounts in almost every store. Glasgow also has lovely parks for taking walks and appreciating nature.
What advice would you give to prospective postgraduate research students?
Fall in love with your PhD project, have a work-life balance and be intentional about taking care of your physical and mental health.
