In Their Words: Dahyeon Jeong

Name: Dahyeon Jeong

Department: Economics Department

What Award/ Scholarship did you receive? (Milam-McGinty- Kaun) MMK

What year do you expect to graduate? 2020

College: Graduate Division

Where do you call home? Santa Cruz

With all of the choices for college, what made UC Santa Cruz stand out? Great faculty members in Economics department

What is your field of focus? Development Economics

What do you hope to do once you graduate from UC Santa Cruz? I hope to work at a major research university. I will continue producing research that can contribute to reducing absolute poverty in developing countries. Additionally, I want to teach students economics, which is one of the most rewarding duties.

What is one memorable moment that stands out for you as a student here? As a graduate student, the most memorable moment is when I achieve something in my research. I still remember I was very excited when my first academic paper (joint with my advisor) was submitted to a journal for publication. Another memorable moment was when my economics proposal received favorable reviews from NSF with research funding.

What is your one piece of advice for incoming students about life at UC Santa Cruz? I would like students to explore various aspects of life and find what they are truly passionate for. When you are intrinsically motivated to do something, that’s when your potential and productivity are maximized. UCSC definitely offers such an opportunity.

How will this scholarship impact your academic life /research? This MMK award is the highest honor for teaching in the division of Social Sciences. I am really honored and proud to have received this award. We all know that university teaching can have enormous impact on students’ lives. This award was again a great reminder for that.