How did you decide on your research project?
The topic was presented to me by Dr. Lamdin of the Economics Department.
What courses or other experiences prepared you for this research project?
I work in the field of finance which definitely helped when exploring different concepts while I researched the topic. The courses I'd taken in personal finance as well as macroeconomics definitely helped when applying the ideas and implications of the data to the real world.
What was the hardest part of your research?
The hardest part was pulling all of the data together to form cohesive conclusions. With so much information, it took a lot of time and analysis to figure out which parts were most relevant. I also wanted those who saw my presentation and/or read my paper to really grasp the implications, so getting my points across congruently was challenging, but definitely an enriching learning experience.
Does your research connect back to the courses you are taking?
My research definitely connected to my classes, most specifically the macroeconomics class I was taking at the time through large scale implications of the research itself. Becoming familiar with more research methods and formats gave me new perspective on some of the material covered in previous classes as well. I had taken Dr. Lamdin's corporate finance class and I applied material learned from that class and statistics classes in gathering and analyzing the data.
What are your plans for after UMBC?
I want to do the Master's program at UMBC through the Economics and Public Policy departments. I may also complete a Master's program elsewhere in Economics; more specifically, International Economic Policy and Analysis, but I'm very interested in many different subjects as they relate to Economics, Public Policy and Finance.
Do you plan to do anything that builds on your research?
I've definitely had many ideas that have come from researching this topic that tie financial markets with economic indicators as well as analyzing past economic policy's effects on current conditions in both the US and other areas of the world. I believe this topic has many, many different paths for interest and I'm open to exploring some of them in the future.
What advice do you have for other undergraduate about the research opportunities at UMBC?
Definitely be active in seeking out opportunities and if you're like me and are presented with the opportunity, do not hesitate to do it. I had a lot going on the past semester, but researching was such as rewarding experience even though my workload was stacked. Also, don't be afraid to look into every possibility for information because you never know what aspect may be important to your research.
Read more about William's research at the link below. 
