I decided to participate in this thesis for the freedom it would give me to explore many different topics, and thus learn more than I ever would have by confining myself to one. I also wanted to continue working with Ivo Welch as I greatly enjoyed his corporate finance teaching style and class last semester.

I hope to gain a very strong understanding of how to effectively conduct and critique economic research.

I recently took a job, so… Short term: Learn as much as possible while working in investment banking at Lehman Brothers over the next few years. Long term: Still unsure…. but leaning toward a career in the financial services industry

I’m a member of the Brown football team. Spent my first three years at quarterback and now playing safety on the defensive side of the ball. Music has always been a big part of my life. I used to sing in an a cappella group here at Brown and recently took up guitar about two years ago. I love listening to music as much as I do playing it, and would say I have a rather eclectic taste. I also like to travel. Recent plans include excursions such as driving down through South America all the way to Tierra del Fuego. Whos with me!? I’m originally from Ellicott City, Maryland but currently live in beautiful Providence, Rhode Island.