7 Presentation Tools That Engage Students More Than Slideshows
Slideshows are a popular teaching technique, but they can suck the life out of students. Reading the text aloud doesn't hold students accountable for reading it outside of class. And it makes you look obsolete, since you aren't offering them anything they can't learn from a textbook. Besides, technology has gifted you with dozens of classroom tools that are way more fun for your students (and you) than a traditional slideshow. Here are a few creative options to get you started: Pear Deck Eliminating slideshows means you'll have to rewrite all your lesson plans to replace them. That's a lot of work, so rather than throwing your slideshows out all at once, transition slowly with Pear Deck. This slideshow app has cool features you'll never find in PowerPoint. Students use their mobile devices to distract themselves during traditional slideshows, so Pear Deck plays into that habit. It lets students access your slideshow from their device and follow along on their own. They can also interact with the slides anonymously, so shy students can "speak up" in class without the pressure of actually speaking aloud. The best part: you can collect the data after class to see how students interacted with your presentation and improve it for next time. Mindomo Mindomo takes classroom collaboration to the next level with software that lets you work with students to make "mind maps." Mind maps are visual representations that connect ideas and topics you've talked about in class. With its recording capabilities, Mindomo lets you add audio notes to explain a complicated concept. Students can also use Mindomo to outline group projects together. The software comes in a downloadable app, so your students can collaborate on their phones at any time. And after all that, it still has the ability to turn mind maps into slideshows if you really want. Presentation Binders Let's take a break from technology for an old school classroom tool: three-ring binders. Even the best students can be distracted; after all, it's tough for anybody to sit at a desk day in and day out. Giving them a tangible learning tool will help them harness their energy and give them an acceptable way to fidget. You can present your class with all the information they'll need at the beginning of the semester, or you can use binders as a cumulative tool. Ask them to add to the binders throughout the semester. This will encourage them to be responsible in collecting the latest handouts, and it gives them a convenient space to take notes. Twitter One problem with slideshows is they're too long—nobody wants to listen to you reading from a projector screen for three hours. Twitter is the anti-slideshow: it provides 140-character snippets that today's students love. And as it turns out, Twitter works wonders in the classroom. It's the perfect venue to remind your class about upcoming assignments and facilitate discussion. Students can also use it to ask questions or make their own observations about your class. Once you make an account and hashtag for your class, the sky's the limit. GoAnimate Today's generation is used to being fed a constant stream of video on social sites like YouTube and Snapchat. Even if the video is only ten seconds long, it's more engaging than a still picture because it requires viewers to use multiple senses. You can make your own videos using GoAnimate. This video-making app features scenes from a variety of industries, letting you edit them to be the most relevant to your class. You can even create characters that look like you or your students. WONDERBOOM WONDERBOOM is a portable Bluetooth speaker perfect for playing music in class. Its long battery life means the WONDERBOOM will work all day; you can even take it to your office and enjoy some tunes while you grade papers. Studies show that music can increase students' focus by covering up other potentially distracting noises like a ticking clock or a loud class next door. Even if you don't play music the entire time, letting students listen to one or two songs at the beginning of class will give them a boost of energy and get them pumped for the day. Wireless Microphones This tool is all about connecting with your students on a personal level. They'd rather hear from you than a projector screen—and a wireless mic makes sure they actually can hear you in a crowded lecture hall. When students can hear you better, they're more likely to interact during class. Another key to creating an interactive classroom: let your students do some of the talking. You may have the microphone, but that doesn't mean you have all the answers. Involve your students by asking them open-ended questions. You may not stick to the exact structure you had planned, but your students will bring up excellent points that encourage discussion and make them want to learn more the next day. Bonus Tool: Pranks Joe Dombrowski achieved internet stardom when he posted a video of himself pranking his students with an outlandish April Fool's spelling test. It's not the weirdest thing the teacher has done; another video shows him summoning students from recess, yelling "KA-KAW! KA-KAW!" in a giant bird imitation. The spelling test stunt landed him on The Ellen Show twice and earned him $10,000 that he spent on classroom improvements. Granted, Dombrowski is an elementary school teacher. But he might be on to something. Most college students (and professors for that matter) are secretly still kids at heart—and everybody needs a laugh to get through the rigors of academia.
College students complain about a lot of things—lack of sleep, dining hall food, and finals week, to name a few. As a professor, it isn't your job to address complaints about life outside the classroom. But if students take issue with your teaching style, it's time to listen up. One of their biggest gripes in the classroom: slideshows.
How to Make The Most of Your PhD - Tips For Beginner Doctoral Students
Get to know your fellow PhD students. Doing a PhD is sometimes a lonely experience, but it can also be a chance to meet like-minded people. Whenever possible, take the opportunity to get to know your fellows PhD students at lectures, department events, or social events. As well as being a good way to make new friends, you'll benefit from having people to talk to about your PhD experience and to turn to for help or advice. <11an>limit:3;categories:PhD Programs;disciplines:Economics</11an><o:p></o:p> Find out about the library, IT systems, and university administration. While there is a lot to think about at the start of your PhD, it will only get more busy as time goes on. So take a few days at some point near the start of your PhD to look into your university library and IT systems. Find out where the buildings are located, what kind of log-in information or card you need, and who you can ask if you run into problems. Also find out about the administrative arrangements and student support for matriculation, funding, and other issues. If you need to use these services later down the line, you'll be glad that you already know where to turn for help. Organise regular meetings with both of your supervisors. You need to make sure that you have regular contact with both of your supervisors. Specifics can vary between individuals, but generally you should see your main supervisor at least once every two weeks, and your second supervisor at least once per semester. Set up these meetings early on and be diligent about attending them. Do attend lectures, departmental seminars, and events. With so much pressure on, you might feel like you need to spend all of your time getting started on your research project. But you need to learn about your subject more broadly in order to become a good researcher, and you also need to get to know the other people in your department and university. So do attend extra lectures, departmental seminars, and events – particularly at the beginning of your PhD when you have more time than you will later. Have a plan, but be okay with changing it. When you start you PhD, you will need a plan of what research you are intending to perform, and the timescale in which you will operate. The more detailed this plan is, the better – for example, for a science PhD, try to think through each stage of literature review, hypothesis formation, experimental design, data analysis, and so on - and make a note of how long you think you should spend on each task. Do be realistic here! This is where it helps to talk to other PhDs or academics, as you can ask them how long certain tasks typically (recruitment of participants, for example, always takes far longer than you imagine it would). Draw up your timetable, however, also remember that this plan is subject to change. Perhaps you come up with a new idea, or your first experiment doesn't work out, and you need to change your plan. That's okay! Your plan should be a guideline, but you need to be flexible about how things work out. Look for training courses – especially for soft skills. Soft skills like oral presentation, essay writing, or supervision can be frequently overlooked by PhD students and supervisors alike. However, these skills are essential for you to succeed in your PhD and beyond, so you should make an effort to learn more about them. See if your university or graduate school runs training courses, and sign yourself up if you can – half a day to two days' worth of training on these skills can be incredibly useful throughout your career. Get a support system in place of friends, family, and fellow academics. Working on your PhD can be wonderful, but it can be stressful too! You'll need help and support from others to avoid burning out. Make an effort to get to know new people and to keep in contact with family, friends, and former co-workers to ensure that you have people who can give you emotional support when you need it.
When you start a PhD, there's a lot to think about – so here are our tips on what to do to make the most of your PhD experience.
What To Expect And How To Prepare For The Assessment Centre - A Guide For Economists
Assessments may last for from a couple of hours to several days, depending on the situation. The assessments you will take part in will test your job skills and knowledge to determine whether you will be a good fit for the position you are interviewing for. Written assessments The most common kind of exercise you will have to perform at an assessment centre is a written test. This will be similar to a written undergrdaute exam, in that it is a series of questions to be answered unaided within a limited amount of time. For economists, such written exercises may cover topics such as mathematics and statistics, factual knowledge on economic topics, or logic puzzles. The tests may ask you to write long-form answers to questions, or more commonly will ask for short-form answers, and some may even include multiple choice tests. To prepare for written assessments, you should revise in a similar way to how you would prepare for a written exam during your undergraduate study. Group exercises Another form of assessment used at such centres is the group exercise, in which you must join a discussion or perform a task in a group of around three to twelve people. While you perform the assessment, assessors observe the interactions and the contributions which each person makes to the group. These are challenging to prepare for, as each exercise will be different depending on the personalities, knowledge, and skills of the other group members. One common mistake that people make in such exercises is to be too quiet and reserved, and not to show off their skills and abilities. In order to be assessed well, you have to demonstrate your skills! However, you also want to avoid being too bossy or totally monopolising the group's time, as this will make you look out of touch and difficult to work with. One very useful technique in a group exercise is to take responsibility for keeping the group on track. In discussions, for example, it's easy for the focus of the group to wander away from the most important topic. You can suggest to the group that you re-focus, and help by summing up what other people have said and pointing out areas of disagreement or concordance within the group. This is beneficial for the group, as it makes it more likely that the group will achieve its objective, and it also shows that you personally are a good leader who can listen and work with others. Presentations Sometimes you may have to give a presentation as part of your assessment. On some occasions you will be asked to prepare a presentation in advance. In this case, you should follow the usual presentation advice to use a few slides with just essential keywords on them, to speak clearly and slowly, and to make eye contact with your audience. You may want to tailor your presentation to make it more suitable for a general audience, as the people assessing you may not be experts in your particular field. So make sure that you provide definitions for any technical terms which you may use, and start off with a general introduction to your topic. In other cases, you will be asked to prepare a presentation on the day itself. In this case, the most important advice is to give your presentation a very clear and explicit structure. Don't worry about trying to put too much information into the presentation, but rather keep it simple and to the point.
When you are applying for jobs as a graduate economist, as part of the application process you may be asked to attend an assessment centre. Assessment centres are a tool commonly used in recruitment for government jobs or for joining large companies with extensive graduate recruitment schemes. Typically, you will be invited to attend such a centre after a preliminary interview and before a final decision is made.
Everything You Need To Know About Summer Schools in the Czech Republic
Why apply to a summer school? Summer schools are short non-degree courses offered by universities to students who want to get ahead in their study field during the summer break. It is also a perfect solution for those who would like to gain some international experience but don´t have a chance to spend a full semester or more abroad. Last but not least, summer schools are a great opportunity to get to know a university or a certain subject before you choose it for your further studies. Summer schools are available in a number of different disciplines. This summer, for example, the Czech universities host summer schools focused on Architecture, Food tourism, Fabric patterning, Central Europe history and culture, Business administration, Creative arts or Drama therapy. Many summer schools are focused on culture and language of the hosting country and this brings a great added value in the form of local perspective and experience from the real life. In addition, summer schools usually offer ECTS credits for their courses too. Summer schools are not only about studying and gaining new knowledge but can bring you great experiences that go far beyond the average summer holiday. Social and cultural events with fellow students from all over the world are an important part of the curriculum. Students have a perfect opportunity to improve their language skills, meet locals, live in a different culture and much more. The favorable location of the Czech Republic also makes it easy to plan individual trips to other parts of Europe and explore further countries. Some practical details about summer schools The application deadline for summer schools offered by universities in the Czech Republic is typically the end of May but later deadlines might be possible, depending on the course capacity. The application process is easy and can be done by filling out an online form. Most often, the duration of summer schools at Czech universities varies from 1 to 5 weeks and the tuition language is English. Depending on the institution, programme and duration, the course fee can be around 500 – 1 500 EUR and it usually covers the tuition, reading materials and sometimes also dormitory-style accommodation. Besides, students should consider their travel expenses, visa fees, medical and travel insurance and living costs. In case of certain summer schools you can apply for a scholarship as well. This applies to the Summer Schools of Slavonic Studies. Summer Schools of Slavonic Studies The Summer Schools of Slavonic Studies offering Czech language courses are organised by several public universities in the Czech Republic, namely the Charles University, Masaryk University, Palacký University in Olomouc, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice and the University of West Bohemia in Plzeň. These courses are designed for foreign students, teachers, translators and interpreters and other experts active in the field of Czech or Slavonic studies. Due to their broad scope they are, however, open to anyone else who is interested in the Czech language, literature, history and culture. The summer schools offer language courses at various levels of proficiency, seminars on the Czech literature, culture and history, free-time activities including theatrical, musical and dance performances, trips etc. Each year, the Czech Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport offers a limited number of scholarships for participation in this kind of summer school to applicants from specified countries. The applicants must be nominated by the competent authority in their country, which is usually a respective foreign government agency or the Czech diplomatic mission. The scholarship consists of free board and lodging, coverage of course fees and free access to cultural events which are part of the course programme. Advice and further information can be provided by the Czech diplomatic missions abroad or at the website of the Czech Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports. How to find your summer school in the Czech Republic Have you decided to come to the Czech Republic for a short study stay this summer? You can find a number of summer schools organized by Czech universities in the section Short (non-degree) courses. The list is not exhaustive and you will definitely find some more interesting study abroad courses at the websites of particular universities.
Would you like to spend your summer in the Czech Republic, learn a lot, make new friends and have fun? Many Czech universities organize their summer schools every year during the holiday period and you can choose from a diverse range of topics!
What to Do With Your Economics Degree: Career Paths for An Economist
Researcher One appealing job for economics students is working as a researcher, either in a university setting or for a private company. This career makes use of many of the skills that you will have developed as a student, particularly if you have done postgraduate study which involved independent research. The role is to gather data, analyse it, and write reports which sum up your findings. This is a good career choice for those who have solid quantitative data skills and a high level of written communication skills. However, a disadvantage is that such jobs can be very competitive and sometimes only available as short-term contracts. You would find research jobs for economists with organisations such as the International Monetary Fund (https://www.imf.org/) or the National Bureau of Economic Research (http://www.nber.org/). Teacher If you have completed your economics degree, you could consider working as a teacher in a secondary school, or as a lecturer at a university. It's increasingly common for economics to be taught at schools, and it's important for young people to understand the way that the global financial system operates. Teaching this information can be personally rewarding as you are directly helping young people to have a more financially empowered life. The disadvantage of this type of work is that it is usually poorly compensated when compared to the other types of career which are open to economists. You could find teaching jobs at local secondary schools in your area, or at local and state universities. For example, universities which are currently hiring for economics lecturers include the University of East Anglia in the UK (https://www.uea.ac.uk/) or Charles Darwin University in Australia (http://www.cdu.edu.au/). Analyst A common career path for economics graduates is working as an analyst. This career involves analysing data, creating new solutions, and communicating these solutions to others. This would include roles such as business analyst, policy analyst, financial analyst, or market research analyst. These roles are all in different settings, but include the same fundamental skill set which you will have gained as an economics student. These jobs tend to be well compensated depending on the field, however, the work itself may be less inherently interesting than in other careers. You could work as an analyst at a consulting firm such as McKinsey & Company (http://www.mckinsey.com/). Management Consultant Another career path which offers excellent compensation is working as a management consultant. This role involves joining businesses for a short period to observe their functioning and then offering advice on how the business could be run more efficiently and successfully. For those who are full of new ideas and enjoy problem-solving challenges, this can be an ideal fit. Consultants often use quantitative analyses, so a high level of skill with statistics is desirable. Having a consulting job in which you only spend short amounts of time with a client business can be an advantage for some, but others will find it tiring to be constantly adjusting to new environments and meeting new people. Jobs as a management consultant are available at specialist consultancy firms like A.T. Kearney (https://www.atkearney.com/) or IBM Global Business Services, the professional services arm of IBM (http://www.ibm.com/services/us/gbs/consulting/). Business Reporter or Journalist One career which you might not have considered as an economics graduate is working as a business reporter or journalist. The happenings in the world of business and economics have ramifications beyond just the field, so there is a need for reporting on these events for a general audience. If you are gifted at communicating complex ideas in a simple way, and you are able to grasp business events but also to portray these events in a way which would make sense to the public, then you could be a reporter or journalist. Such work can require long hours and making yourself comfortable in a non-economics environment, but if you can deal with that, then the career can be interesting and worthwhile for broader public education. You can find journalist jobs at newspapers such as the Guardian (https://www.theguardian.com/) or the Financial Times (https://www.ft.com/) and reporter jobs at media outlets such as NBC (http://www.nbcnews.com/business) or the BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/).
What kind of jobs can you get with an economics degree? Today we're considering five possible careers for economics graduates and the pros and cons of each.
How to Study Abroad in Asia and Save Money?
Find a study abroad program that is priced competitively Not all the study abroad program cost over $10,000 US per semester! There are programs around the world that are being offered for less than $3,000 US per semester. If you are studying in the United States, you will probably already save money here, as your tuition fees are likely to be above the cost of one semester in Asia already! Watch this video to learn more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_eo2zTfYrqc Find out if you are entitled to a grant or a scholarship Find out if you are entitled to any study grants through your University or your government. Most universities offer grants to their students who find a study abroad placement on their own or through a company offering exchange programs. Also some societies that promote cultural exchange give out grants to students applying to study abroad. Snoop around and find out about all the grants you might be entitled to! Find a study abroad destination that the living costs are low in If you really want to save money, pick a study abroad destination that is know for low living costs. While even the bigger cities in Asia are often quite affordable, when compared to the cities in Europe or USA, studying in a place like Singapore or Tokyo will not be extremely cheap when it comes to living costs. In cheaper places around Asia, you can even get your own nice little apartment for less than 150 euros or $200 per month! Choose a destination like Lombok in Indonesia, or Bangkok in Thailand to get more bang for your buck! Book the cheapest flights possible One of the most expensive one-time costs of a study abroad semester is purchasing the flights. But don’t worry; with a bit of planning and searching, you will be able to save significant amounts money on flight fares. Our friends at Asia Exchange published an article recently that will show you how find the lowest price! Use public transport Once you make it to your destination country, take advantage of public transport to save more money! Buses and trains are generally a lot more cheaper than taxis, and also the new ride sharing apps, such as Uber, are often more affordable than taxis in the Asian countries. Eat locally Local food in Asia is not only amazingly delicious but also very affordable! In most Asian countries you can get a nice local dish for about 1 Euro or dollar. Avoid eating out at expensive western restaurants and your wallet will stay thick. Party responsibly While a little partying is not a bad thing to do at all when studying abroad, it can be an easy way to spend more money than you would. After a few too many drinks, most people tend to start getting a bit loose with their spending, and buy rounds to others, or buy unnecessarily expensive cocktails. And believe us, it is quite often that as a result of a night too big, the drunken dummy has also managed to lose their wallet and iPhone. Be smart when you party, and you’ll save money too! Work during your studies While many countries don’t allow exchange students to work while studying, Internet has made it possible to work from anywhere. Blogging is one way to make money while abroad, and depending on your skill set, there are endless opportunities out there for one willing and capable of putting in a few hours of computer work after your studies. Head down the street from your apartment to a nice café, order your latte, power up your MacBook and make some money while studying abroad, it’s that easy! Learn more about studying in Asia at http://www.asiaexchange.org
So you want to make your dreams finally come true, and take off to somewhere in Asia to study abroad for one semester. Many people think that studying abroad is expensive, and that only students with wealthy parents can afford a semester abroad, but that’s not true at all! You can study in Asia and actually save money compared to studying at your home university. In this article our partners at Asia Exchange, one of the world’s leading companies organizing student exchange to Asian countries, take a look on ways to make your semester abroad more affordable.
How to properly cite your conference paper
When you write a conference paper This one is easy – when you're writing a conference paper to present, then you should use the same referencing style that you would use for a publication in your field. Include author names and dates in parentheses in the text, then put a bibliography at the end in which you list full references for each of your citations. When you want to cite something you saw at a conference If you've seen a great poster or presentation at a conference and you want to cite it in your own work, then you may need to check up on the reference format in a style guide, as this will vary between fields. For example, here is the section of the APA style guide on how to cite material which you have seen at a conference. For papers or posters: Adams-Labonte, S. K. (2012, August). Daytime impairment due to college students’ technology use during sleep: Similarities to sleep apnea. Poster session presented at the meeting of the American Psychological Association, Orlando, FL. Nguyen, C. A. (2012, August). Humor and deception in advertising: When laughter may not be the best medicine. Paper presented at the meeting of the American Psychological Association, Orlando, FL. For symposia: Krinsky-McHale, S. J., Zigman, W. B., & Silverman, W. (2012, August). Are neuropsychiatric symptoms markers of prodromal Alzheimer’s disease in adults with Down syndrome? In W. B. Zigman (Chair), Predictors of mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and mortality in adults with Down syndrome. Symposium conducted at the meeting of the American Psychological Association, Orlando, FL. For published proceedings from conferences: Parsons, O. A., Pryzwansky, W. B., Weinstein, D. J., & Wiens, A. N. (1995). Taxonomy for psychology. In J. N. Reich, H. Sands, & A. N. Wiens (Eds.), Education and training beyond the doctoral degree: Proceedings of the American Psychological Association National Conference on Postdoctoral Education and Training in Psychology (pp. 45–50). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association. For blog posts published before, during, or after the conference: Mills, K. I. (2012, July 25). Why do people hurt themselves? [Blog post]. Retrieved from http://apaconvention.com/2012/07/20/why-do-people-hurt-themselves And here are some other examples of citations you would use for conferences papers which you have read online: For conference papers you find online, with DOI available: Author of Paper, A., & Author of Paper, B. (Year, Month date). Title of paper. Paper presented at Title of Conference: Subtitle of Conference, Location. doi:10.XXX/XXXXX.XX For conference papers you find online, with no DOI available: Author of Paper, A., & Author of Paper, B. (Year, Month date). Title of paper. Paper presented at Title of Conference: Subtitle of Conference, Location. Place of publication: Publisher. If you don't use the APA style, you may still need to cite a conference paper using a different style. Here are examples of some other citation styles for the referencing of published conference papers: Harvard style: In text: (Author, 2017) In bibliography: Author, A. (2017). Paper title. In Conference name. City of Publisher: Publisher, pp.1-3. MLA style: In text: (Author, A.) In bibliography: Author, A. "Paper Title". Publisher, Conference Name, 2017, p. 1-3. Chicago style: In text: (Author, 2017) In bibliography: Author, A. 2017. "Paper Title". In Conference Name, 1-3. City of Publisher: Publisher.
One of the great things about attending conferences is getting to learn about the latest and most cutting-edge research before its published in journals or books. You can hear authors presenting their newest work, sometimes even before their experiments or data collection are complete. This information is very interesting to have, however, it is also more speculative than published work as it has not been peer-reviewed or edited. For this reason, it's important to be clear when you cite a conference paper, so that your audience can see that the work has not been peer-reviewed. To help with this, here's a guide on citing conference papers.
5 Tips to improve your experience at conferences
2. Go and see talks on topics which sound interesting, even if they're not directly related to your work If you've planned out ahead of time which talks and posters you want to see, you've probably honed in on those topics which are directly related to your research. And this is an excellent way to get the most informational value out of a conference. But conferences are also a change to re-energise and inspire you, particularly if you're finding it hard to motivate yourself. If a talk catches your eye, or a poster sounds interesting, then go along and see, even if it isn't directly tied to your research. Getting yourself excited about your subject is always a worthwhile activity! 3. Spend some time with students of the hosting department One group of attendees at conferences who are often overlooked are the undergraduate or postgraduate students of the hosting department, who often help out with administration or support tasks during the event. If you want to get the real scoop on what it's like to work in the institution which is hosting the event, or you want information on how labs or other research groups work in practice, then you can learn a lot from these students. Have a chat to the people who are handing out badges or helping attendees find their way around the event space, and you might learn something helpful. 4. Be bold with your opinions during discussions Whether you're participating in a discussion following the keynote lecture, or taking part in a casual debate over dinner, don't let yourself be intimidated by large crowds or famous names at a conference. Be bold in sharing your thoughts and opinions, and you will learn a lot more from your conference experience and make more of an impression on others. Keep your comments professional, of course, but feel free to state your mind and don't be shy about participating – that's what these events are for, after all! 5. Get plenty of rest, water, and food We feel a bit like your mother reminding you of this – but it's important to keep yourself healthy while you're at a conference! Travelling can be exhausting all on its own, and that's before you consider the added pressure of a conference environment. With so much to do, you might be tempted to cut back on sleep, but this would be a mistake. In order to do your best academic work, you need to be well rested, so make sure you're getting at least 8 hours of sleep a night, preferably in a quiet environment. Avoid noisy, chaotic hostel room where you share with lots of other people, and try to get your own room instead. Also remember to bring some small snacks with you each day in case food isn't provided, and make sure that you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. These tips can help you to have an even better conference experience. For more advice on attending conferences as well as extensive lists of conferences which you could attend, see our website conferencemonkey.org.
1. Talk to people you don't know as well as those you do Conferences are, among other things, a great place to catch up with friends and fellow academics working in your field. If you've been in academia for a while then it's likely that you'll bump into some people you already know at a conference, or maybe you'll even arrange a meetup with friends beforehand. It's good to keep in touch and to have an excuse to get together socially with your colleagues. However, don't forget to make time for speaking to new people too. Not only will this help you hear new ideas and new perspectives, it will also help you to grow your professional network. So make an effort to talk to some new faces as well as catching up with friends.
Economists and Entrepreneurship: Can Economists Be Good Entrepreneurs?
Good numeracy and a solid understanding of statistics One distinct advantage that you'll gain from the study of economics is an understanding of statistics, statistical tests, and statistics software. This, along with mathematics, will strengthen your numeracy skills, which are of great importance to entrepreneurs. To succeed as an entrepreneur, it's not enough just to have a great idea for a business – you also need to be able to assess whether your business will be profitable, to work out how much you should charge for your product or service, and to be able to handle complex budgets. All of these skills will be much easier to learn for those who already have a solid grasp of statistics. Basic understanding of finance Related to the importance of numeracy for an entrepreneur is that importance of understanding the basic principles of finance. Economists may well have studied finance units as part of their degrees, and they will certainly have a better than average knowledge about taxes, loans, investments, and so on. This puts economists ahead of the curve when it comes to starting their own businesses, which will require a large amount of practical financial management. Understanding risk and probability Another advantage for entrepreneurship which is conveyed by studying economics is an understanding of risk and probability. When looking at possibilities for investment, for example, an economist can call on their training to think about the likelihood of a return on their investment, how large the return could be, and whether the possible gains outweigh the risks in any given deal. Entrepreneurs do need to be risk takers, as they need to be willing to try new things even if they may not succeed, but an understanding of what is a probable outcome will allow you to run a business in a smarter and more successful way. Critical thinking and logic An under-rated skill gained from the study of economics is critical thinking and the ability to apply logic to a complex problem. Economists even more than most academics are used to uncertainty and multiple possible answers to any given question. This ability to confront uncertainty and to use logic to find creative solutions to problems is an essential skill for the entrepreneur. In business, there is rarely one correct answer which applies in all situations – rather, multiple courses of action are possible and each has different advantages and disadvantages. Academic training in economics will help build the confidence and skills to make these decisions in business. Communication skills like oral presentation One skill which is vital for an entrepreneur is the ability to present your ideas, your business's performance, and yourself to others. In order to gain investment, to attract talent to work with you, and to promote your business, you'll need solid communication skills. A high standard of written communication is important and will be well trained by studying economics, but even more important is the skill of oral presentation. Being able to stand in front of an audience and speak with confidence and poise will be required in order for people to have confidence in your business, and giving academic oral presentations is an excellent way to refine this skill. As you can see, studying economics is not just a path to a career as an economist. It can also set you up well for other careers, as it gives you plenty of transferable skills. The particular skills required to be a successful entrepreneur are often skills that you can pick up while studying economics.
If you're studying economics and are thinking about possible career options, have you considered entrepreneurship? Studying economics gives you many skills which are useful in running your own business. Here are some of the qualities which you'll gain from training in economics which are valuable for entrepreneurship:
Economic Development, Innovation and Growth (JEL O)
Asia is leading the world With some 1.4 billion people living just in China, Asia is by far the biggest continent in the world in terms of population and trade. Many of the world’s leading companies are based in Asia, and studying there can be a nice addition to your resume when applying for a job at any of these companies or firms that do business with them. Culture The culture in Asia is different! If you grew up in the western-world, going to Asia for the first time will be an eye-opening experience. The way people live, their habits and traditions, and on a more general level, everything really, is different. Best way to experience the culture is to live somewhere for an extended period of time, and there’s no better way to do that than studying there! Adventures What would a semester abroad be without adventures? From exploring some of the world’s biggest cities like Shanghai, to hikes through dense rain forests and diving with turtles in Lombok, Asia really has it all. Study in Asia and make every day of your time abroad an adventure! Food Mmmmm. Where should we even start? Each Asian country has its own cuisine, and all of them are mouth-watering! Asian kitchen typically mixes sweet flavors with some spice, and often the dishes are served with a side of rice. For an exchange student, not only is the food in Asia amazingly tasty, it’s also affordable! One could spend years traveling Asia just trying new foods every day – we sure would love to as well! Affordabilit­­y Most countries in South East Asia are well known for the low living costs. Especially if you are receiving financial aid for your studies from your government or a study grant from your university or another institute, your expenses will remain very low! When compared to the tuition fees of the colleges and universities in United States, the program fees of Asia Exchange are extremely affordable too! If you love the beach… Asia has some of the nicest beaches in the whole world, and the ocean is always warm! With world-renowned holiday destinations like Phuket, Lombok, and Bali to choose from, you will be able to combine a semester abroad with plenty of time spent on a perfect white sand beach. High standard of education Asian universities have been climbing up on the world’s top university ranks lately. With many of the biggest businesses of the world being based in Asian countries, especially the business schools in bigger cities provide education of highest standard. Likewise, many traditional public and private universities have stepped up considerably in the university rankings, as many Asian countries invest heavily on higher education. Ultra-modern cities World’s highest skyscrapers, malls that are never-ending complexes you can spend the whole day exploring (some of them even have rollercoasters inside them), and amazing modern architecture next to historical buildings. Cities like Seoul in South Korea are nothing short of mind-boggling and to study in one these modern metropolises will be a life changing experience for most of us. History All Asian countries have rich and long histories dating back thousands of years. From dynasties of China to evidence of some of the first populations to ever exist on this planet found from Indonesia, there is so much to visit in Asia for those interested in the days of the past. Numerous ruins and museums can be found in all of the Asia countries. Memorable experience Studying abroad in Asia is something that the students will remember for the rest of their lives. New friendships, and adventures together with these new faces – sometimes people end up falling in love with Asia so that they move there permanently! Even if you don’t end up moving to Asia, you will go back home with not only new skills learned and friends made but also with a heart full of memories of adventures that you otherwise would have never gotten to experience. Learn more about studying in Asia at http://www.asiaexchange.org
As studying abroad is becoming more and more popular, we are taking a look at why one should go and study in Asia. Our partners at Asia Exchange are one of the world’s leading companies organizing student exchange to Asian countries, so who would be better to ask for a Top-10 in Reasons to Study in Asia for!
Should I Choose an MBA Concentration? - Pros & Cons
Pros of an MBA concentration At some business schools, you will find that having a concentration is mandatory. But if choosing a concentration is optional for you, then you should consider your long-term career goals. If you know exactly which job you are aiming for after graduation, a concentration during the MBA can help you get an edge on other applicants. For example, if you wish to enter a career in financial services, then a finance concentration will help, both to prepare you better for your future role, and to help you to stand out from the crowd when you are applying for highly competitive positions with very large numbers of applicants, all or most of whom have an MBA. There can also be a financial advantage to choosing a concentration, as some of the best compensated jobs which are open to MBA students – such as in banking or risk management – are roles in which you can specialise while you are still studying. Typically, an MBA with a concentration can help you earn more over a lifetime career than an equivalent Master's degree. So if you are focused on getting a well-paid job once you graduate then a specialisation can help you to achieve this. Even a field which you think you may not like, such as information technology, or a field which seems obscure, such as sustainability, may prove not only more interesting than you think, but also rewarding. Employers in niche areas who are looking to fill a position with an MBA graduate are likely to prefer applicants with knowledge of their field, and also willing to pay a higher salary for the right candidate. Cons of an MBA concentration If you already have a degree in economics, and are looking for an MBA as a means of transitioning into general business and management, then in a sense you already have a specialisation in economics. With an understanding of economic theory, and an awareness of how markets work and the role that businesses function within them, with an additional, general MBA in your pocket you will be well-placed to make smart decisions and advance up the management structure. One common motivator for students pursuing an MBA is the desire to be entrepreneurs once they graduate. If you wish to start up your own business, then it is in your interest to have as broad a range of skills and knowledge as possible. In this case, an MBA concentration, unless perhaps a concentration in entrepreneurship, would come at the cost of breadth of knowledge, and may not be the right option. Also worth noting is that some MBA concentrations are less worthwhile, financially speaking, than others. Specialisations in human resources, for example, tend to produce lower salaries than those in consulting or operations. If you are aiming to specialise not because of a passion for one area, but because of a notion that you might be more employable and therefore better paid, do your homework before deciding. Similarly, be careful about choosing an MBA specialisation if you haven't yet decided what you want to do after you graduate. If you only know that you want to go into business, but aren't sure in what capacity, then it is to your advantage to study as many areas of business as possible. Selecting a concentration, while not exactly ruling out other areas in future, certainly gives you a more difficult story to tell a potential employer, explaining why you specialised in one area but are applying for a job in another. In this sense, a general MBA degree keeps your options open. Secret option number three: Look for alternatives to an MBA If you know you want to work in a specific field, then there may be cheaper and more effective courses than an MBA. For example, if your interest is in working in HR, you may be better served by first looking for a job and gaining real-world experience, perhaps supplementing it with additional professional training courses, rather than paying for an expensive MBA course. Similarly, in a field such as accounting you may be better served by a cheaper and quicker one-year master's degree in accounting, than a longer and more expensive MBA with a specialisation in accounting. Whether or not you specialise in your MBA (or decide to do an MBA at all) of course depends on your own career status, ambition and financial situation. While some employers insist on an MBA, for others a graduate degree in economics or related field may be sufficient. If you are already decided on an MBA, and perhaps specialising within it, then hopefully this post has given you some food for thought. Do your research, think carefully about what is right for you, your wallet, and for your career, and look forward to one of the most interesting, and in the long-term rewarding years of your life.
When you begin studying for an MBA, you may have the chance to choose a concentration – that is, a specialisation in which you focus on a particular area of business to study in-depth. Students with an economics graduate degree who are starting an MBA program are especially likely to be tempted towards a concentration option, with the perspective gained from an economics program offering an advantage in career paths like consulting, finance or information systems. It is particularly common in the USA for MBA students to have the chance to choose a concentration before they begin their course, similar to how other students would choose a major. If you are given this chance, should you choose a concentration? Here are the pros and cons of specialising during your MBA.
Step-by-step Guide on Applying to Universities in the Czech Republic
Although Czech is the main language of tuition at universities, over 1000 study programmes in English are offered at all degree levels and across all fields. Below you can find a step-by-step guide that will help you in getting started with your application! 1. Find your study programme Start by choosing the degree programme that fits your interests and ideas. You can study in the Czech language, in English and selected programmes even in other foreign languages. Use the interactive finder of study programmes at www.studyin.cz with various search functions to get started. Studies in foreign languages are subject to tuition fees, although these are generally much lower than in Western Europe. Maybe you can even take advantage of some of the scholarship opportunities offered to foreign students, so have a look at this page. Studies in the Czech language at public universities are free of charge. Many universities offer one-year long language courses that can prepare you for studies in the Czech language as well as for entrance examinations. Find out more here. 2. Prepare basic documents The basic condition for entering studies is the successful completion of the previous level of study (certificate of graduation from a secondary school for Bachelor´s (3 years) and long-cycle Master´s degree programmes (5-6 years); Bachelor’s degree for a follow-up Master´s; Master’s degree for a Doctoral study programme). If you have degrees issued abroad and wish to enroll at the university in the Czech Republic, you will be required to obtain an official document confirming that your degree is recognised in the Czech Republic. For details see this page. Besides certified copies of your educational qualifications, the minimum entry requirements usually include a completed and submitted application, proof of the admission procedure fee payment and compliance with the conditions for the specific study programme (e.g. letter of motivation, letter of recommendation, portfolio, English proficiency test). 3. Check specific entry requirements Once you have decided where you want to apply to, you can search for detailed information on entry requirements and deadlines. In the Czech Republic, each university is responsible for its own admission procedure and the conditions vary from programme to programme. You should therefore always check the specific requirements on the university websites and if you need some advice, you can contact the study department or the international office of the relevant university. The application deadline is mostly between February and April. Students may apply for several study programmes at various universities and faculties. 4. Submit your application The application forms are available on university websites. Universities use the system of electronic applications forms, which simply guide the students and allow them to track their application status throughout the entire process. After filling in the application, it is necessary to print it out, sign it and send it by post to the relevant university or faculty together with the required documents. You might be asked to pay the application fee and attach a receipt of payment to your application, if required by the university. The next steps will be communicated to you through the online application system and by a letter or email from the university. 5. Sit the entrance exams If you are an eligible applicant, you may be required to sit an entrance exam. It can include a written test and oral interview. The entrance exams are usually held in the Czech Republic, but some options also exist for taking the exam abroad (e.g. via Skype). 6. Wait for the notification of acceptance When the application period and the possible entrance exams are over, the university will make the final admission decisions. Results are usually announced by the end of June. After receiving the decision, you will be asked to pay the tuition fee for the first semester, if applicable. The university will then send you an official letter of admission, admission confirmation for the visa and accommodation purposes, and the study contract. 7. Apply for visa Depending on your nationality you may need to apply for a visa or residence permit to enter the Czech Republic. You should start your visa application process as soon as you have received the official letter of admission, especially if you are a non-EU citizen, as the whole procedure requires some paperwork and can take up to 60 days. Find out more here. 8. Arrange practical aspects of your arrival to the Czech Republic You should keep in touch with the study department of the university or with the study programme coordinator. Your host university can advise you best on the arrangement of all the practical details of your arrival to the Czech Republic, including local student accommodation options and available student services. 9. Arrive and enjoy your stay! Make sure to save some free time next to your studies for the many attractions Czech Republic offers! Find out more about studying in the Czech Republic at www.studyin.cz.
Are you thinking about completing your degree abroad? Have you considered studying in a centrally located European country, with a rich history, beautiful architecture and nature, low cost of living and a long tradition of quality education? The Czech Republic offers all of this!
How to choose the right conference for me
National or international? The first factor to consider is whether you would like to attend a national or an international conference. National conferences are aimed at researchers from a particular discipline within their home country, while international conferences are for researchers from all over the world. International conferences lend to be larger and more well-regarded, so if you're looking for the biggest boost to you career then you should attend an international conference. However, there are also good reasons for attending a national conference: they are generally cheaper in terms of travel and attendance costs, so are better if you are on a tight budget. Also, if English is not your first language and you are not very comfortable with it, you might want to consider a national conference. International conferences generally operate in English, while national conferences operate in the local language, which may be more comfortable for some attendees. Large or small? Conferences can be small, with fewer than fifty attendees, or large, with thousands of attendees. These give rise to very different conference experiences. Large conferences give you the chance to meet vast numbers of people and to create a very large network, but only if you are diligent about taking note of names and contact details and then following up with people afterwards. Large conferences are also more likely to attract big names in your field, so if you want to make contact with famous researchers then they are a good option. There are advantages to a smaller conference, however. With fewer people attending, it will be easier to get to know them and the socializing is likely to be more casual. Also, you usually have a greater chance of being accepted to present a poster or to give a talk at a smaller conference, and having a talk on your CV is always impressive, even at a small conference. Specialist or general? Conferences may be focused on a very specific topic, or they may be more general. At general conferences, any topic within the relevant subject would be appropriate for presentation or discussion, whereas at a specialist conference, the presentations and discussion will revolve around a particular issue within the field. In some cases, you may find a general conference which has a theme for the year. The better your work fits to the conference's theme, the more likely you are to be accepted to present, so if you can find a conference in your particular topic then that is usually preferable. However, general conferences can also be very useful to keep you informed about the latest developments being made in all areas of your subjects. Single discipline or interdisciplinary? In addition to the specialist or general factor, conferences may be single discipline or multidisciplinary. For example, a specialist conference could be held on European economic polices for international aid, while a general conference could be about the whole topic of international development. In this case, a single discipline conference could look at these topics in terms of economics, while an interdisciplinary conference could include sociologists, historians, and politics researchers too. Single discipline conferences will be full of familiar names, faces, and topics if you have been working in the field, and can be helpful when you need input from other researchers with similar backgrounds to you. An interdisciplinary conference, on the other hand, will expose you to a broad range of methodologies and approaches which you might not have been aware of previously. Just the conference or extra events too? Finally, consider that most conferences run for between two and five days. However, there may also be additional events before or after the official conference days, such as workshops or training. If you are interested in expanding your skills, for example by attending a workshop on data analysis, then you can look to see if there are additional events around the conference that could be beneficial to you. We hope this helps you to choose the right conference for you. You can find a list of all of the biggest economics conferences right here on our website: https://inomics.com/top/conferences
With so many great conferences being held every year, it can be hard to decide which you should attend. Most researchers have a limited budget for conference travel, so it's important to pick your conferences wisely. But how do you know which conference is right for you and for your career? Here are five factors to consider when choosing a conference to attend.
How to Wisely Plan a Budget for Conference Trip
Check up on your institutional funding Your conference costs should be covered by your institution – either by your program, your department, or your university – so find out who is providing the funding. You need to contact the finance department or find the relevant set of guidance about expenses on the university website. Different organisations will have different rules about exactly what is covered, how much you can spend, and what level of expenses are acceptable. There might be rules such as a maximum amount that can be spent on accommodation per day. Specific expenses You should allocate money the following items for your budget, provided they are covered by your institution: Travel costs, including flights, transfers from the airport, buses fares while you are there, and possibly taxi fares Accommodation costs Cost of registration for the conference Costs of conference events such as the conference dinner Possibly a daily per diem for small daily expenses Travel Conference expenses should usually cover an economy class flight to the nearest airport to the conference, plus the cost of transfers from the airport to the location. Generally, institutions will cover the cost of economy class flights, but not business class or first class unless you are very senior. Don't forget to take account of the travel costs you will incur during the conference week, such as costs of taking a bus from your hotel to the conference venue. Also, you may need to budget for taxi rides. In most situations, it would be acceptable to expense the cost of a taxi on the way home from a late night dinner event, for example, but you would be expected to travel mostly on public transport when it is available. If you want to travel to the conference location a few days early or to stay on a few days afterwards, it is usually not a problem for expenses claims. You can only claim accommodation costs for the days of the actual conference (for example, if you stay for 6 days but the conference only runs for 3 of those days, you ca only claim for 3 days of accommodation costs), but if there is not a big difference in the cost of the flights when they are a few days apart, then it will be fine to claim the costs. Accommodation You will generally be expected to find the most affordable accommodation, within reason. For academics who are postdoctoral or more senior, it would be typical to stay in their own room in an affordable hotel. Masters and PhD students might sometimes be expected to stay in a cheaper hostel, however, even in these cases it is usually possible for them to have their own private room in the hostel. Although you can get cheap accommodation if you are willing to share a room with others in a hostel, this is not an ideal situation for conference travel. You will need plenty of sleep in order to perform well at the conference, and shared rooms in hostels tend to be very noisy and chaotic. It is vastly preferable to have a private room, and the extra expense should be covered by your institution. Food expenses In some countries, such as Germany, it is common for institutions to have strict rules against paying for food expenses. Therefore, you will be expected to cover your own foods costs as you would if you were at home. In other places, however, you may find that a food budget can be provided for a conference trip. Conference costs The final set of costs you should consider is the costs of the conference itself. There will typically be a registration cost which you will have to pay in advance, and for which you should get a receipt so that you can claim the money back later. There may also be costs for events such as the conference dinner, or for joining extra workshops. For lots more advice for attending your first conference, see our site at conference-monkey.org.
Planning a budget for a conference trip is fairly straight forward, but if this is your first conference then you need some basic information to help you with your planning. Here are some tips on how you can plan your budget.
5 Biggest Mistakes Conference Attendees Make
1. Trying to do too much At every conference, there will be so much to do that it can be easy to become overwhelmed. Between keynote talks, regular talks, poster presentations, workshops, and social events, it's hard to keep up with everything. Trying to attend absolutely all of it will only leave you tired and stressed, so be selective with which sessions you will attend. Get a copy of the conference timetable before you leave home – you can usually download the timetable from the conference's website – and go through it and highlight sessions that you absolutely want to attend. Check for any clashes and prioritise the sessions which will give your information that you won't be able to get elsewhere. Once you've chosen your sessions, plan out your time so that you can get to each one. And don't forget – at big conferences, it can take some time to move between sessions, so make sure to leave some travel time in your plan. 2. Attending only academic events or only social events When you're choosing the sessions to attend, it can seem sensible to focus just on the academic sessions which will give you information directly relevant to your research. Conversely, some people would much rather attend the fun social events and parties than the academic talks. But in fact, either of these approaches is a mistake. The value in a conference is in both hearing about new academic work, and getting to know fellow researchers in a social context. Therefore, you want to balance your conference program so that it includes both talks and social events to get the most from your conference experience. Consider attending 4-6 sessions during the day, then 1-2 social events in the evenings to achieve a good balance. 3. Partying too hard in the evenings On the subject of social events, it can be tricky to navigate the social norms of conference events. Often, events will have a relaxed party vibe and may include a large amount of alcohol, sometimes even an open bar. But beware! While there's nothing wrong with having a drink or two in the evening, drinking to excess is a mistake. Not only will being too drunk make you look unprofessional, but you'll also be hungover the next morning and not get the most out of the sessions that you attend. Remember that you'll need to get up early and be productive the next day, so take it easy in the evenings and don't party too hard. 4. Not being technologically prepared for a presentation If you're giving a talk at a conference, you've probably spent a lot of time preparing your material, making your slides, and practising your presentation. But one aspect which conference attendees often forget about presenting is the technological factor. If you're using slides, then you'll need a computer and a projector or display which is compatible. The venue should provide these things, but you need to ensure that your material is in a compatible format. There can be problems, for example, with using Microsoft Office files on a Mac computer, or in connecting a computer with only VGA outputs to a projector which only takes HDMI inputs. If you're presenting, make sure that you check whether your materials will work, preferably at least a day before your presentation. That way, if you do have problems, you have enough time to contact the technical support department or to find the adaptors which you will need. Then when you come to present, everything will be smooth and ready to go. 5. Leaving no time to explore the city the conference is held in Finally, remember that a conference is not only an academic experience - it is also a chance for you to travel: to see new places, experience a different culture, and to learn more broadly. So try to set aside half a day or so to explore the place in which the conference is held. Conferences are often held in major cities, so there will be historical sites, tourist attractions, and restaurants and cafes for you to explore. If you can, arrive at the conference a day early or leave a day late and give yourself a bit of time to enjoy your travels as well as learning from the conference.
Make your conference experience better by avoiding these five common mistakes:
Professors Think That Academic Publications Are Much More Relevant For Their Employability Than Their Teaching Skills
The INOMICS Salary Survey asked Assistant, Associate and Full Professors for their opinions as to what they thought were the most relevant academic characteristics that justified a higher salary in academia. The Survey has attempted to answer the general question often posed by potential academic job applicants, as to which skills, qualities and achievements will justify and bring about a higher salary. One’s educational level was seen as most important in Asia and North America, suggesting a more rigid, defined and traditional university and academic hierarchy in these regions. Further, Asia placed last in terms of the importance it gave to academic publications whilst placing the most importance of the group sampled, on language ability. This may be an indicator that Asian Professors view their roles perhaps, as much more instructional and indicative of status, rather than as a practical tool for the furtherance of development in a given field. Interestingly, across all levels of Professors, student evaluation is not considered to play an instrumental role in the justification of higher salaries. The competence of Professors based on academic publications is seen to be the main justification for higher salaries. This suggests that for Professors, research ability is far more important than pedagogical skills. The INOMICS Salary Report also includes skills and experiences justifying higher salaries in the private sector, answered by senior and mid-level respondents. To learn more about worldwide salary by gender and region, please visit this page to download the full report for free. Information in the graph is based on the INOMICS Salary Report 2016. The report reflects job market and salary trends for economists, ranging from those just starting their Master’s to those working as senior professors or researchers in academia and the private sector. Key findings include: ✓ Professors consider research publications more relevant for their employability than teaching skills. ✓ The gender pay-gap for economics professors at North American universities seems to have narrowed to the point of non-existence. If anything, female academics seem to earn slightly more than their male counterparts. ✓ Salary is not a primary motivator, although it has a demotivating effect if too low. ✓ A higher salary is considered as more important in some regions, for example in Asia, especially among people working outside of academia.
The world of academia is constantly changing, so much so that the importance to Professors, of different academic and career achievements, is shifting in ways that may be somewhat unexpected.
10 New Year's Resolutions for an Economics Student
1. I will try to stay up to date on world politics and the effect it has on global economics. Economics in the real world is intricately connected to politics, international relations, and sociology. To be the best economics student, you need to stay updated on global political events, so make a point of regularly reading newspapers, websites, or magazines. 2. I will read up on related fields like finance, business, and psychology. Keep expanding your mind and learning more from fields which are related to economics. It is both interesting and valuable to understand how one discipline affects work in another. 3. I will think about the transferable skills I am learning and identify areas where I need to learn more. When it comes to career success, it's not just good grades that you need to consider. Think about what jobs you'd like to do in the futue, and what skills you would need for them. Then consider the skills you're learning (like programming, presentation, writing, and so on) and which skills you still need to work on. 4. I will work on my mathematical and data analysis skills. Talking of skills, remember that data analysis is an important part of economics which students often struggle with. Especially if you're not terribly mathematically inclined, put aside some time to work on your data analysis so you can approach this area of your studies with more confidence. 5. I will start looking for internships or jobs as soon as possible. If you need to complete an internship as part of your degree, or if you're nearing the end of your studies and are thinking about your next steps, then it will help to get started hunting for positions early. Internships can be filled as early as 6 months before they start, so if you need to land a position then the sooner you start looking, the better. 6. I will arrive on time to all my classes, and I will listen attentively during class. Not only is this polite to your lecturers and fellow students, but it will also be good practice for the working world where you'll need to be on time. 7. I will participate in debates and discussions within classes and outside of them, and I will seriously consider opposing viewpoints. When you first start debating in class it can seem like the point is to “win” - to show that you're right and to persuade other people. But in fact you can learn even more from discussions but really trying to listen to and understand opposing view points. 8. I will plan out my assignments in advance and hand them in on time. Everyone finds it stressful to have to complete essays or to take written exams, but you can make the experience easier for yourself if you start preparing in plenty of time. Give yourself a month to work on your essay or exam revision and you'll learn more and feel less stressed than if you leave it until the last minute. 9. I will attend a conference, workshop, or public lecture in my field. One of the best ways to hear about the latest work in your field and to meet other academics is to attend events like conferences, workshops, or lectures, so don't miss out on these opportunities. 10. I will look for grants or scholarships which I could apply for, for added financial security and as a boost for my CV. It's always helpful to have more sources of funding, and being awarded a grant or scholarship will make you stand out when applying for jobs or further study.
Now it's time to start looking ahead to the new year and thinking about what you want to achieve. For economics students, we've got suggestions for 10 new year's resolutions which will help to make your studies more engaging, less stressful, and more rewarding.
1. The conference program You'll probably be given a program for the conference when you arrive to register, and it will include a list of the talks and poster presentations that will be held, abstracts for each, and information on some of the key event organisers. You might also find details of social events, workshops, or other related events which are happening over the conference. This program is incredibly useful, so keep it with you at all times. However, if you lose it, it's not the end of the world – there's usually an online version of the program available on the conference website too. 2. The conference timetable In addition to the conference program, or sometimes included within it, you should find a timetable which lays out exactly when and where each talk or event is happening. With multiple overlapping sessions happening throughout the conference, the timetable will help you to plan which talks you want to see. Get a highlighter and mark your must-see events on the timetable so you can be sure not to miss them. 3. Your conference badge You should receive a badge at registration too, which will show your name and university affiliation. This badge is important for several reasons – firstly, it allows you access to the conference events and spaces, and secondly, it lets everyone know who you are and helps them remember your name. Put your badge on a lanyard or clip it to your clothes and make sure you always have it with you. 4. Your laptop Obviously it's useful to have a computer and phone with you, and most conferences will have free wi-fi so you can back up your notes or download any information that you need. Do bring along a laptop sleeve or padded bag to keep your computer in so that it won't get too banged about during travel. 5. A notepad and pens A notebook? Why would you want paper when you have a laptop? Well, often you might need to scribble down a quick note while you're on the go, and it's a pain to have to pull out a computer and boot it up. Keep a small pad and a pen in your pocket to keep track of little titbits of information as you go about the conference. 6. A map of the city Once again, when it comes to navigating around an unfamiliar city, then paper really is better than electronic. Find a fold-out map of the local area and mark on it your hotel and the conference location, to be sure that you can always find your way around. 7. A public transport map Similarly, if you're planning to use local buses, trains, or trams, then it'll help to have a transport map that you can consult to know which interchanges to use and which stops to get off at. 8. A tourist guide book Hopefully you'll have a bit of time off from the conference to explore the local area and see some of the sights. Even if you've already planned out your sight seeing trips before you leave, it can help to have a guide book with you to suggest restaurants or other places to eat while you're on the go. 9. Appropriate clothing and outerwear We've previously written advice for you on what to wear for conferences, so you should have no problem picking out some appropriate outfits. Chuck some casual clothes in your bag too for travelling in, and do think about weather-appropriate outerwear, like a raincoat if it's likely to be wet wherever you are, or a thick warm coat if you know it's going to be cold. 10. A bottle of water Finally, you'll be working hard and travelling a lot during a conference, so remember to stay hydrated. Keep a bottle of water with you and drink plenty of it to make sure that you stay fit and healthy during your trip.
When you're packing for a conference, there are some essentials to bring along that will make your life much easier. Check out our list of these items below and make sure you have them in your bag so your conference trip is as smooth as possible.
Top 10 Christmas Gifts For Economics University Teachers
INOMICS and our parent company 11 Academia Networks are Amazon Associates, meaning we are a part of their affiliate program. This article contains affiliate links from them and other partners, which means we may earn money through any qualifying purchases made after you click through. However, this is not a sponsored post. 1. Monopoly The absolute classic gift for an economist is the Monopoly board game, which was designed to explain trades and property acquisition to children. Who doesn't love a good board game? Just don't blame use if it causes drama over Christmas... 2. GDP: keep it real magnets Give these magnets to your teacher so they can show off their nerdy sense of humour. With the formula for GDP written right there, they can refer to a nation's GDP every time they open their fridge. 3. Can You Outsmart an Economist? - Puzzle Book Do you know an economics teacher who can't resist a challenge (i.e. probably any economist). Then give them this econ-flavoured puzzle book. 4. One year's access to The Economist digital archive The Economist is a beloved publication which is known for some of the best coverage of business, finance, and politics. But its historical archives are a wealth of fascinating information too. Gift your favourite teacher with a year's access to The Economist's digital archive and they'll have interesting material to read all year long. 5. First class economics teacher mug Of all the economics teachers you could have ended up with, you got one who's really great, right? That's why you want to buy them a gift! So show your appreciation with any one of these witty economics teacher mugs. 6. Trust me, I'm an economist apron In times of uncertainty and doubt, who should you turn to? An economist, of course! That's the basis of this “Trust me, I'm an economist” shirt. 7. Macroeconomics reference guide poster For a slightly more sensible present which would be practical and useful for an economics teacher, this laminated poster lays out the basic principles of macroeconomics and would make a great addition to any economics classroom. 8. Supply and demand throw pillow For something on the more fun and silly end of the presents scale, here's a pillow which helpfully charts out the relationship between supply and demand – so you can learn about basic economics principles while lying on the couch! 9. The Economist 2017 mini diary Another genuinely useful gift is this 2017 mini diary from The Economist. With special content like information on world populations, international dialling codes, and world hotels, it's the perfect gift for the economics professor who travels a lot. 10. Cold, hard cash You'll have to watch out with this one, lest your economics teacher thinks that you're offering them a bribe! But according to economics experts, by far the most efficient gift is cold, hard cash. It's not very festive though... If you're after more content for economists, like tips for economics students, careers advice, or notifications about the latest jobs and conferences in the field, then head to our website for all your economics needs!
Christmas is coming up soon, and you know what that means – it's time for Christmas shopping! If you're thinking about getting a present for your economics teacher at university, here are our suggestions for top gifts for them.
Tips For Students Attending Their First Academic Conference
Check the program before you leave Most conference organisers will put their programs online before the conference starts – sometimes even including timetables and abstracts of the talks and poster presentations which will be taking place. Take advantage of this and you can plan out sessions which you want to see before you even arrive. Check the program for familiar names, talks which are related to your project, or just abstracts which sound interesting to you. Then highlight the sessions you're interested in on the timetable so that you won't miss out on a session which you'd like to attend once you're there. Do try to talk to new people, even if you're feeling intimidated It can be intimidating talking to people at conferences – especially when everyone is much more senior than you and they all seem to know each other already. But you'll miss out on one of the biggest advantages of conferences – getting to know people and expanding your network – if you don't take the chance to talk to other attendees. Try asking questions at the end of talks, or talking to people who are giving poster presentations about their work. And do attend the social events such as the conference dinner, where socialising is the point of the event and so people will be happy to talk to you. Don't drink too much or party too hard That said, you will need to exercise some restraint when it comes to parties and other social events. There will often be a lot of alcohol available at these events – sometime for free – and it can be tempting to drink to help you loosen up and feel more sociable. But watch out, because it's not a good idea to overindulge at a conference. You need to maintain a professional bearing, especially if you're younger or more junior, and this is much harder when you've been drinking. Stick to a drink or two per night and you can avoid any embarrassing memories the next morning! Plan out your travel and tourism too If the conference you're travelling to is in a place which you haven't visited before, it will help to make plans in advance. Check out the details or the airport or train station you'll be arriving in, and know which connections you need to take and how to reach them. Make a note of any bus routes or train lines which you'll need to use while you're at the conference, and make sure you have a map with your hotel and the conference venue marked on it. Also, have a look to see what tourist attractions are available in the area, and give yourself an afternoon or two to explore the place you're visiting as well as working hard at the conference. Bring business cards if you have them, and a notebook You'll want to have a way of taking notes while you're at the conference. Of course, there might be data or ideas presented which are interesting to you for your research, and you should note these down. But more importantly, you want to keep a note of the email addresses or other contacts details for the people you meet. When you talk to someone who works in a related field to you, it's helpful to keep in contact with them so that you can expand your network. On that note, do bring along business cards if you have them, or offer to write down your email address for people if you don't. Finally, a great tip if you're presenting a poster or making a handout is to make sure that your email address is somewhere in the header or footer of the document, so people can contact you if they have any questions about your work.
Attending a conference for the first time can be both a lot of fun and a rather scary experience! So here are some tips for students attending their first conference, to make it as enjoyable and beneficial as possible.