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MA in Applied Economics Testimonials
Farah Younes, Research and Executive Assistant, UNDP
Building on my background in mathematics, the M.A. in Applied Economics at LAU has provided me with a robust foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of economics. The program’s diverse curriculum and emphasis on applied skills have been instrumental in enhancing my analytical abilities, preparing me for real-world challenges. Engaging with esteemed faculty and participating in research opportunities has not only expanded my knowledge but also helped shape my professional path, particularly in my current role at UNDP. The skills I gained during my studies, particularly in data analysis and economic research, have been invaluable to my career development. This program, and LAU, will always hold a special place in my heart for the profound knowledge and experiences it has offered.
Mohammad Bzeih, Ph.D. Candidate in Economics, City University of New York (CUNY)
Transitioning from a background in mathematics, I embarked on the M.A. in Economics program at LAU, which proved instrumental in facilitating my shift to economics. The program provides a valuable quantitative foundation, essential for both research and professional spheres. One pivotal component of the program is the diverse faculty. Their different backgrounds and interests help students acquire a prerequisite knowledge spanning different disciplines of political economy, environmental economics, and econometrics, thereby enriching students’ academic and professional development and preparing them for the next step.
Wafaa El Baba, Team Lead Economist, AI Economic Pulse
As an alumna of the M.A. in Applied Economics Program at LAU, I am proud to affirm that the program excels in preparing its students for a seamless school-to-work transition amid a fast-paced labor market characterized by high uncertainties and disruptions. The program’s knowledgeable and supportive faculty and well-tailored educational curriculum equipped me with the necessary expertise to launch my career as a research analyst at the United Nations. I am now embarking on a new chapter as a team lead economist at AI Economic Pulse startup. Engaging with the faculty in extracurricular research work elevated my research and analytical skills and helped me identify and refine my research interests for future career and educational opportunities. The program’s emphasis on its applied aspect proved invaluable in meeting the current demanded skills in the job market.
Sara Kassab, Research Analyst, UN-ESCWA
The M.A. in Applied Economics program at LAU has been a transformative journey that has enabled me to reach new heights in my career and life. The program’s consistent emphasis on practical applications has been exceptionally beneficial, equipping me with the proficiency to produce a research paper from inception, a skill I once thought was beyond my reach. The faculty members’ continuous assistance and support have been priceless. They have guided me to explore new horizons and grow both personally and professionally. As I begin my journey as a research analyst at the United Nations, I am filled with a strong sense of confidence and preparedness, knowing that this program has provided me with the necessary tools and knowledge to excel in my new position. I will be forever grateful for the opportunities and experiences this program has provided.
Zeina Lizzaik, Ph.D. Candidate in Economics, Concordia University
The M.A. in Applied Economics program at the Lebanese American University (LAU) has been an enriching experience that has facilitated both my academic and professional growth. Students enrolled in this program gain valuable experience in diverse economic areas and acquire a vast amount of knowledge through the program’s coursework, thanks to the supportive faculty. Furthermore, the program actively promotes research and professional growth through internships and research assistantships, among other opportunities. As I prepare to take the next step in my academic journey with a Ph.D. program, I am sincerely grateful for the knowledge and experiences gained through this exceptional program. I am confident that the strong foundation and expertise acquired will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping my academic and research aspirations for the Ph.D. program and beyond.
Pierre Boutros, Ph.D. Candidate in Economics, University Côte d’Azur
Pierre Boutros is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Economics at GREDEG, a research center associated with the University Côte d’Azur, and he is a consultant at the Lebanese Center for Lebanese Studies (LCPS). He received his master’s degree in Applied Economics from the Lebanese American University and Bachelor’s degree in Financial Engineering from La Sagesse University. He has been active in research and policy reports. His research areas include economics of science, labor economics, and applied economics. Pierre also contributed to the book “The Middle East and North Africa 2022”.
Yara Sleiman, PhD Candidate at the Department of Political Science, University College London
The M.A. in Applied Economics program was a challenging but rewarding experience that allowed me to grow academically and professionally. The coursework helped me advance my empirical research skills and learn how to effectively handle complex datasets in my research. This skill set has been instrumental in my pursuit of a doctoral degree and has set me up for success in my academic career. I was also fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with a dedicated and knowledgeable faculty who were always willing to provide guidance and support.
Ghina Abdul Baki, Ph.D. candidate in Economics, University of Ottawa
The Applied Economics Graduate Program at LAU offers a high educational quality that is vital for a future career or academic success. It also creates supportive and encouraging learning and research environment for students to step out of their comfort zone, and that is what defines an authentic education.
Giorgio Maarraoui, Ph.D. candidate in Economics, the University of Manchester
The M.A. in Applied Economics has greatly boosted my software skills (STATA, Mathematica, and GAMS) as an economist. Needless to say, knowledge of these skills is in high demand in the labor market in Lebanon and abroad. In addition, the program not only enriched me with the theoretical baggage needed for a Ph.D., but also allowed me to learn how to write referee reports, think about real-life economic problems strategically and methodically, and write economic papers from A to Z.
Ghida Matar, PhD candidate, ICN Business School
The MA in Applied Economics program at LAU provided a solid foundation for my research journey and has been instrumental in my success as a PhD candidate in Accounting and Finance at ICN Business School. Admission to this highly competitive PhD program (9 accepted out of 600+ applicants) required an impressive research proposal, strong econometric skills, and expertise in Stata—all honed during my MA. My three Q1 Scopus-indexed publications, developed with professors, further strengthened my application. The program’s high-quality instruction and practical insights enhanced my clarity on research methodology and have been pivotal in excelling during my demanding first-year PhD coursework. The guidance and knowledge gained during my MA have been invaluable in navigating the challenges of my PhD pursuit.
Hadi Safieddine, Business Performance Analyst, Elie Saab
The MA in Applied Economics at LAU sharpened my analytical and problem-solving skills. This has been important in shaping my approach to challenges in my current role as a Business Performance Analyst.
Hassan Bairam, Deputy General Manager, Samana for Business
Mira Al Khalili, PhD candidate, Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), in Spain (Reus)
Earning an MA in Applied Economics from LAU provided me with a strong foundation in research and analytical skills, opening the door to my PhD journey and shaping my academic career. Recently, I had the opportunity to present my research—part of my PhD thesis—at a conference in Reus, Spain, highlighting the impact of power supply on firm growth in the MENA region.
BS in Economics Testimonials
Roy Jason Hourany, Senior Performance Marketing Executive; Publicis Media | LVMH
The BS in Economics at LAU has equipped me with a fully rounded way of thinking, helping me make better informed quantitative and qualitative decisions in my current position as Senior Performance Marketing Executive for Publicis Media | LVMH. It has challenged me to be a better decision-maker maker, driving businesses to better streamline their marketing expenses to streamline their marketing expenses better.
Mouhannad Arabi, Retirement Consultant at WTW, Belguim
My journey began at LAU in 2016, where I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Economics, supported by scholarships from LIFE and LAU. Those years were transformative—I graduated in 2019 with high distinction, along with minors in Mathematics and Actuarial Science. LAU wasn’t just about academics; it was about mentorship and growth. Professors like Dr. Jachi left a lasting impact, teaching me that decision-making isn’t just for business—it’s a life skill. With LAU’s solid foundation, I pursued a Master’s in Actuarial and Financial Engineering at KU Leuven, graduating with distinction in 2021, and a second Master’s in Statistics and Data Science, also with distinction, in 2024. Along the way, I worked as a Senior Actuarial Analyst at Cigna and now as a Retirement Consultant at WTW while pursuing an MBA at IE University. LAU’s lessons still guide me, shaping the person and professional I am today.”
Shady Abi Fares, Chevening Scholar, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).
Pursuing a dual degree in Economics and Political Science/International Affairs at LAU during a transformative and turbulent period in Lebanon shaped my interest in development studies. The combination of multidimensional economics coursework and exposure to the country’s unfolding economic and social crises helped deepen my understanding of Lebanon’s development challenges. It ultimately led to a role at the United Nations Development Programme in Beirut. My academic and professional background earned me a prestigious Chevening Scholarship to study in the UK, where I am currently pursuing an MSc in Development Management at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).
Renee Gebran, Consultant in Sustainable Finance, A2 Consulting, France.
During my time at LAU, I grew both academically and personally. The three years I spent there provided me with a strong foundation in Economics and helped shape my personality, preparing me for the challenges of pursuing a master’s degree abroad. I am now working in sustainability consulting in Paris, and I’m grateful for how my studies at LAU contributed to getting me where I am today. I’ll always be thankful for the instructors who inspired me and the connections that made my journey so memorable.
Hussein Wizani, Business Analyst, Podeo
With a passion for economics, I joined LAU’s prestigious Department of Economics, a decision that shaped my academic and professional journey. The program’s balance of theory and practice sharpened my critical thinking and research skills. LAU’s reputation made it easier to secure internships before graduating, including at Caux – Initiatives of Change in Switzerland and the Central Bank of Lebanon. After graduating in 2016, I worked in market research and later as a cloud consultant. Returning to LAU in 2020 for a master’s, I joined Podeo Inc., MENA’s fastest-growing podcasting startup, where I lead analytics. Now, I am pursuing an MBA in Business Analytics.
Mazen Kanaan, Co-founder and CEO of House of Pops
My academic journey at LAU was truly transformative. The BS in Economics program laid a solid foundation for my career, from its rigorous academic training to the invaluable experience of founding and presiding over the Economics Club. Earning high distinction and receiving the Torch Award remains one of my proudest achievements, reflecting the inspiring environment LAU fosters. Today, as the co-founder and CEO of House of Pops, a 100-person company producing ice cream in Dubai and selling across the GCC and recently Lebanon, I frequently draw on the analytical and strategic thinking cultivated during my time at LAU. The supportive faculty and collaborative spirit of the university were instrumental in shaping my path to success.
Ahmad Hani Bidawi, Panthéon-Sorbonne University
My BS in Economics at LAU provided a well-rounded education, seamlessly blending quantitative precisionwith qualitative analysis. A strong foundation in economics paired with advanced econometric coursework and lab sessions enhanced my analytical skills and prepared me for my master’s studies at Panthéon-Sorbonne University. Beyond academics, LAU fostered a vibrant community and a mindset of curiosity and critical thinking that drove my career forward. Seminars and collaborative projects bridged theory with practice, cultivating adaptability and problem-solving skills that I now apply daily in my sustainability consulting work in Paris. I’m proud to be an alumnus of this program.
Lara Kloumian, Senior Business Development & Support Officer, Berytech
My bachelor’s in economics from the Lebanese American University laid the foundation for my career in economic development. It provided me with a reservoir of knowledge to understand global economic trends and challenges while equipping me with tools and strategies to support SMEs and drive innovation and economic growth.
Theresia Rahme, Economics Reporter, LBCI
My academic journey began when I was selected by the U.S. Embassy to study economics at LAU, where I also pursued a minor in Arabic studies. Professionally, I worked as a media account consultant for Yellow Pages in Canada and interned at MEIRSS and the Central Bank, building expertise in economic research and monetary policy. As President of LAU’s Economics Club, I led impactful initiatives. Today, I work as an economic reporter at LBCI while pursuing my master’s in applied economics at LAU.
Jamal Skaiky, SKEMA Business School, Intern at CBRE, France
My journey at LAU as an economics student was nothing short of life-changing. The Economics Department felt like a second home, with incredible professors who nurtured my curiosity and pushed me to achieve my best. I cherished every moment, growing academically and personally. Today, I’m pursuing an MA in France and proudly interning at CBRE, carrying the lessons and values instilled by LAU with me.
Jessica Yarak, University of Melbourne
Graduating with a BS in Economics from LAU provided a strong foundation for my Master’s in Public Policy at the University of Melbourne. It enabled me to tutor students from multiple international institutions and led to my role as an economics tutor at Ormond College, University of Melbourne, and as a research fellow at the Tech Global Institute.