The annual economics conference, held at Georgetown University from 19 – 22 April 2018, attracts leading undergraduates from universities across the world who go through a rigorous selection process to present their research on an international stage. Jake, who’s originally from Southport and is in his third year studying Economics at LUMS, will be presenting his dissertation research on English football leagues.

Jake said: “I still can’t believe I’m going. I’ve never been to anything like this before, and being offered such a prestigious place is a bit overwhelming. It should give me the chance to get some feedback on my research, improve my research skills and meet some of the best economists around. Plus, this will be the first time I’ve been to America and the first time I’ve travelled on my own – so it will be a big experience for me personally too.”

What’s surprising is that Jake initially arrived in Lancaster to study Geography, but changed his course in the second year after having a taste of what Economics has to offer. He said: “I didn’t realise economics could be so interesting. I hadn’t really decided what else I’d do alongside geography but the economics talk really grabbed me. I’ve always liked maths and the maths focus of economics was really appealing, as was the idea that you can use different models to interpret data to predict outcomes of all sorts of different situations. Economics is definitely for me, and I’m now considering doing a Masters.”

The Carroll Round is in its 17^th year and encourages an informed debate about global economic issues by bringing together students and economists from academic and policy backgrounds. It is known to attract significant speakers, with Nobel Prize winners among those who have delivered talks at previous events.

Professor Maurizio Zanardi, Head of Economics, said: “I was delighted to hear that Jake has been invited to take part and wish him luck for the big day! Being invited to an event like this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. LUMS continues to attract some of the best students from around the world and this will be the perfect opportunity to show others what Jake and Lancaster has to offer.”