Dr. Cathy Balfe
Research Economist, Bank of England.
I spent four years studying at the Economics, Finance and Accounting Department in Maynooth University, graduating with a BA in Economics and Finance (2006) and an MA in Finance (2007). I very much enjoyed my time at Maynooth - on an academic level the faculty were enthusiastic, knowledgeable and supportive. I have benefited from the generous advice of the faculty at the department not only during my studies but also to this day. On a social level I made many great friends both through the Economics Department and through numerous clubs run by students at the University - in fact, I met my husband during my time at Maynooth University!
One of the aspects I find most enjoyable in studying economics is the wide range of questions that can be addressed - for instance economists have applied their extensive toolkit to analysing the relationship between legal economic opportunities and crime, to estimating the determinants of individual well-being, and to the modelling of individual retirement decisions. I recently completed my PhD and have joined the Bank of England as a research economist. The team I'm working on provide timely analysis of labour market developments in the UK to help inform the interest rate setting decision of the Monetary Policy Committee who are responsible for inflation rate targeting. A recent project I was involved in analysed the impact of reductions in public sector pay and employment on private sector wages.
Dermot O'Leary
Chief Economist at Goodbody Stockbrokers
Dermot O’Leary of Goodbody won the title of ‘Best Research Economist’ for 2006 in the Annual Stockbroking Survey conducted by FINANCE Magazine. Dermot topped the poll in a survey of fund and asset managers both at home and abroad. As Chief Economist at Goodbody Stockbrokers Dermot is responsible for the economics output for the firm. In this role he provides research material, meets clients, both institutional and private. Dermot is also a member of the firm's Asset Allocation Committee and a frequent contributor to economic debate in the national and international media.
"The Economics Department, through the work and expertise of its staff, has been able to build a reputation in many areas of economics. I am sure that this had a significant impact when I first attempted to enter the economics profession with Goodbody Stockbrokers. I would have no hesitation in recommending the economics department in Maynooth to future students in the field of finance."
William Kennedy
Senior Manager in Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia Risk Practice, Ernst & Young
"As a direct result of both my time at Maynooth and the opportunities it opened to me, I currently work as part of a team advising financial institutions in a broad range of areas across financial services risk management".
Dearbhail Delaney
Senior Risk Analyst,National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA)
"The great mix of Economics and Finance that I learnt at Maynooth University meant that I had a strong background coming to work at the NTMA".
Caroline Gavin
Economist, Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland.
‘My overall experience at Maynooth was very positive, both from an academic and social perspective’.
Michael Wosser
Economist, Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland.
Looking back I view it [my H.Dip year] as a thoroughly enjoyable and instructive year. I received excellent tuition and support from the lecturers and always felt that, if I put in the hard work that was required, it would be recognised and rewarded. I did not realise it at the time but this thesis was to form the basis for the work that led me towards the completion of my PhD in later years. I would strongly recommend anyone with an interest in learning about the world of finance to follow this route. You won't regret taking this time to invest in your own future."
Conor O’Driscoll
Economic Research Assistant, Ulster Bank
The M.A. in Economics at Maynooth provided me with wonderful opportunities to develop key skills that were critical both in my job search and in adjusting to life in the working world. The activities and assignments that were part of the programme supplied the backbone of my CV and allowed me to bring concrete evidence of my work into interviews. The staff also do a great job in fostering an environment that is fun to learn in.
Bryan Coyne
Research Assistant, Economic Analysis Division, Economics and Social Research Institute (ESRI)
The MA in Economics appealed to me because of the broad range of courses offered, ranging from Microeconomics to Industrial Organisation. The modules in this course provided me with a solid understanding of many of the key skills that appeal to potential employers. Opportunities to develop skills such as critical thinking, analysing data and presenting research are very important in many industries. The highlight of my time in Maynooth was the opportunity to tutor an undergraduate class, which developed my confidence to teach and interact with a large group of students. My time as a postgraduate student at Maynooth has been instrumental in both my professional and personal development.
Martin McGovern
Treasury Funding Desk-Dealer Nomura International (London)
"I still recall my time at Maynooth University with fondness; academically and personally…The course was just right – from the mix of subjects to the way it was delivered".
