Dept of Economics Research Fellows Program - Fall 2014

The Kaulkin Ginsberg Research Fellows Program is an excellent opportunity for economics majors to gain practical experience applying knowledge learned in class to the production of market research valued by businesses.  The program constitutes a “practice internship”; students stay on campus but still engage in research activity that they might do as an intern or an entry level employee working on site at a consulting firm.  Entry into the program is competitive; only 16 students will be selected to participate this semester.  A mixture of juniors and seniors will be chosen to participate. Students will work in groups  of 4 to gather macroeconomic and industry-specific data and other qualitative information, analyze that data and interpret the detailed information, and use findings to develop specific recommendations for simulated clients.  Students will be mentored by individuals who completed the program last year.  Students will have two opportunities to practice presenting their findings before a live audience, and feedback will be provided to strengthen communication skills. 

Specific research topics include accounts receivable management and revenue cycle management within the healthcare industry.   In addition to exploring a career option appropriate for economics majors, students who succeed in the program will get an enthusiastic letter of recommendation from a respected business executive and be well-positioned to draw on a network of business contacts.  The time commitment averages about 10 hours a week for 9 weeks.

To present this opportunity, the Department of Economics has partnered with Kaulkin Ginsberg, a leading local firm providing consulting services to other businesses, particularly on mergers and acquisitions in specific sectors of the economy.  Mr. Mike Ginsberg, president and CEO, will supervise the students in conjunction with Dr. Cindy Clement, Director of Undergraduate Studies for the department.   Students with questions about the program should contact Dr. Clement via email:  clement@econ.umd.edu

Minimum qualifications for participation in the Research Fellows Program include:

• cumulative GPA at the University of Maryland of at least 3.25
• successful completion of ECON325 and ECON326
• coursework or other experience using Excel or Access or similar software
• availability to meet on campus Monday evenings 5:30 to 7:30 in late September, all of October, and the first half of November

To apply, please complete the application and return it to Tydings 3108 or send by email to ugadvising@econ.umd.edu before 2:00 PM on Friday, September 12, 2014