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Knowing that real estate accounts for significant amounts of carbon emissions and the need for humans to transit to a sustainable economy, I chose to pursue an MSc in urban economic development at UCL to delve into urban development studies, inclusive and sustainable development on a global level. In addition, DPU's courses incorporate theoretical and practical curricula, and two practice engagement opportunities can allow me to participate in a real-life case study and provide strategies to the communities.
At DPU, not only did I acquire knowledge in economics, urban development, and sustainability, but I also met many amazing people I could learn from. The core module, Managing the City Economy, combines urban economics theory from the macroeconomic scale to regional development, enabling me to build a solid theoretical understanding of the city economy. In this module, each group has to deliver a group presentation depending on a different weekly topic, and I particularly gain a lot of insight from this activity.
In addition, the London project allowed me to cooperate with the Great London Authority (GLA) and Hatch Ltd to gain practical knowledge in sustainability and deeply understand what the real world is doing! The project aims to accelerate London's current decarbonisation agenda by providing insight and innovative ideas from cities around the globe on decarbonising their energy infrastructure and examines how those models can be applied to the framework set out in the decarbonisation scenarios and net zero agenda. My group mates and I conducted an in-depth analysis of the questionnaire and interviews with different stakeholders and scholars; in the end, we delivered a presentation and a report, which was a valuable experience for me.
I would also like to mention the Overseas practice engagement— the Tren Maya project, which aims to help Mexico's local community to promote sustainable development. My group adopted the Sustainable Livelihood Framework to systematically analyse the potential impact of the train project on four municipalities in Mexico. During the project, we had several opportunities to meet scholars and professionals in relevant fields. The Tren Maya project enabled me to apply what I have learned from the class and analyse a current under-constructed project.
All the knowledge and competencies I acquired during my year at the DPU allowed me to develop analytical, writing, and communication ability. After graduation, I chose to work in London and start my career as a Fintech analyst. I would like to share a story with you here. Before joining DPU, I knew nothing about Fintech until, in the Urbanisation module, I realised how vital Fintech could reshape the situation of people in developing countries. In this module, Dr Alessio taught us about the application of digital payment in Africa, which allowed me to apply the knowledge I gained in this course to my job application.
Thanks to the DPU and UED, I discovered various knowledge in different fields, especially the skills and experience I acquired are all valuable. My educational career would not have been possible and enriched without the assistance of DPU. Learning is a lifelong process, and I am fortunate to meet the most professional professors, many passionate and brilliant people, and lifetime friends at the DPU.