Sezarya Fei

"I believe quantitative analysis is vital to understanding and solving complex economic issues. This programme offers a rigorous and structured approach to integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills, which is crucial for my future goals.

"I was fortunate to receive a scholarship in my first year, which influenced my decision to study at the University of Auckland. My family is based in Auckland, so the opportunity to stay close to them while studying was also an important factor in my decision.

"I enjoy the focused curriculum of the Quantitative Economics programme, which allows me to concentrate on mathematics, economics, and statistics. I like that I have been able to delve into the subjects that fascinate me the most, with a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application.

"I'm immensely proud of many achievements throughout my undergraduate degree, including receiving the top score in Introduction to Economics and Microeconomics and high distinctions in numerous mathematics and statistics courses.

"I've had the privilege of engaging in several projects and assignments that have challenged me and sparked my passion for mathematical modeling, particularly within economics and finance.

"A stand-out experience for me was participating in a summer research scholarship under the guidance of Professor Graham Donovan in the mathematics department. The project focused on Equation Discovery from Data, which allowed me to refine my mathematical modeling skills further and opened my eyes to the profound impact of meticulous research. It was a learning curve that went beyond the classroom, enhancing my academic knowledge and practical programming skills.

"I have also developed my programming knowledge over the past three years. Having no prior knowledge of any programming languages, I am now fluent in MATLAB, STATA, and R, which are indispensable in quantitative analysis. This journey has been incredibly rewarding. I am grateful for these experiences and am eager to see where it will take me next.

"After graduation, I plan to complete a masters degree in Mathematical Modelling or Computational Finance in pursuit of a career in investment banking, actuarial science, or quantitative analysis. The BSc in Quantitative Economics is a critical step towards this goal.

"I have received the University of Auckland Summer Research Scholarship in Mathematics, valued at $6,750, and the University of Auckland International School Leaver Scholarship, worth $20,000. These scholarships have significantly lightened the financial burden of my studies, allowing me to focus more on my academic pursuits and research projects. They have acknowledged my hard work and achievements and enabled me to engage more deeply with my interests in mathematical modeling and quantitative economics, providing me with invaluable resources and opportunities for growth."