Oyakhilome W. Ibhagui

As a 2012 graduate of the QEM MS programme, I am immensely grateful for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship that facilitated my two-year academic journey. With study mobility across Bielefeld, Paris, and Venice, culminating in two enriching semesters in Venice, I savored every moment of my educational experience. Opting for the QEM programme over other funded offers, including a theoretical physics Ph.D. opportunity in the US, proved to be pivotal. In retrospect, it was undoubtedly the right choice, aligning perfectly with my long-term aspirations and broadening my global network. The QEM curriculum delivered rigorous training in modern economics, blending theory and empirics seamlessly. From the demanding economics exposure in Bielefeld to the enriching academic research environment in Venice, I acquired invaluable skills, particularly in financial econometrics and behavioral finance. These skills have been instrumental in shaping my subsequent professional and academic endeavors.

Prospective QEM students should note the Ph.D.-level coursework, emphasizing a strong foundation in mathematics. However, the program's comprehensive training ensures readiness for pursuing an economics Ph.D. or thriving in industries valuing expertise in econometrics, quantitative analytics, economics, and finance.