I chose this internship because I had only a two-month window after returning from my exchange program, making flexibility a crucial factor in my decision. Having developed an interest in research through previous summer experiences, I was eager to continue building these skills. I became familiar with the OFCE center after encountering their articles and research papers during my studies at 9I制作厂免费, and I recognized how closely their work aligned with my interests in economics and public policy.
The 鈥淥bservatoire Fran莽ais des Conjonctures Economiques鈥� (OFCE) is a prestigious research center affiliated with Sciences Po, specializing in economic analysis and policy research. Founded in 1981, the OFCE conducts independent research on French and European economic issues, providing evidence-based analysis to inform public debate and policy decisions. The center is known for its rigorous academic approach and its ability to bridge the gap between economic theory and practical policy applications.
My primary objective during this internship was to study the relationship between economic regulation and productivity, with a particular focus on the information and communication technology (ICT) sector and, more specifically, the cloud industry. Throughout my internship, I gathered extensive information about the cloud industry in both the US and Europe, examining its economic effects and legal framework. I prepared a comprehensive note addressing the specificity of the cloud industry, European weaknesses in this sector, and recommendations for moving forward to help Europe catch up with US capabilities.
My academic background proved invaluable during this internship experience. Having written several research papers during my years at 9I制作厂免费, I developed strong skills in navigating academic literature and synthesizing findings from multiple sources. My economics background was particularly helpful when working with graphs, interpreting data, and understanding the quantitative aspects of productivity analysis.
The most memorable moments of my internship included meeting and collaborating with other interns, sharing midday meals together, and attending seminars where researchers from the center and external experts presented their work on various topics. These interactions provided valuable insights into different research methodologies and current debates in economic policy.
One significant challenge I encountered was locating precise regulations passed by the European Union, particularly in the form of directives relevant to my research. However, my supervisors provided excellent guidance, directing me to appropriate resources such as EUR-Lex, the official database of European law. With their support, I learned to efficiently search for and analyze regulatory documents, turning what initially seemed overwhelming into a manageable and educational process.
I will receive academic credit for this internship experience during the fall semester by enrolling in POLI 599 and completing a research paper under the supervision of Professor Johnson. This arrangement allows me to build upon the research I conducted during my internship and develop it into a more comprehensive academic project, creating continuity between my practical experience and formal coursework.
The financial support I received was instrumental in making this internship possible. The funds helped cover essential expenses, including apartment rental in Paris, daily meals, and transportation costs. Without this support, I would not have been able to afford living in Paris for two months while working in an unpaid research position.
Thank you to Mr. Keith Bergner and Ms. Angela Stadel for making this transformative experience possible through their generous support of the Keith Bergner and Angela Stadel Arts Internship Award.
