My research interests are Economics of Education, Labor Economics, and Applied Microeconomics.
Working Papers
"Exploring the Influence of AI Tools on Student Learning and Interest in Undergraduate Economics Courses"
Abstract: As generative AI tools become more integrated into higher education, their role in supporting student learning and academic interest gains attention among Economics educators. This study examines how undergraduates perceive AI's impact on their learning and interest in economics. Using anonymized student survey data, I evaluate perceptions of instructional effectiveness and how AI use correlates with increased interest. I show that AI use is significantly linked to greater interest in economics. While traditional methods like lectures and assignments remain core, AI can supplement engagement and understanding. These findings add to research on educational technology, economics pedagogy, and student-centered learning.
Note: I will present this paper at ASSA 2027 Annual Meeting in Washington, DC.
"When Students Are the Experts: Teaching Interdisciplinary Economics Course Through Student Voices"
Abstract: This paper presents an instructional model for an undergraduate course in Sports and Entertainment Economics that highlights student-centered learning, interdisciplinary engagement, and real-world application of economic theory. A key feature of the course is a major project that includes a presentation and a term paper, in which students analyze a sports team, an artist, an organization, or an event of their choosing. This approach allows students to incorporate their personal knowledge and interests into the classroom while applying concepts such as labor market dynamics, incentives, market structure, and cost-benefit analysis. Many students in the course are varsity athletes or have close ties to sports and entertainment communities, often with experience beyond that of a typical economist not involved in these activities. Their insights foster a collaborative environment in which teaching and learning mutually reinforce each other. The paper contributes to the scholarship of economics teaching by illustrating how interdisciplinary contexts, student expertise, and applied projects can deepen learning and support continuous improvement for instructors teaching courses that connect economics to fields such as sports and entertainment.
Note: I presented this paper at CTREE 2026 Annual Meeting in Las Vegas, NV.
"The Effects of STEM-Focused Scholarship on College Student Outcomes: Evidence from Administrative Data" Job Market Paper *
Abstract: In 2014, New York State initiated the NYS STEM Incentive Program (NSIP) to encourage college students to enter STEM fields. The program provides scholarships to high-performing students who pursue STEM degrees and agree to work in STEM in New York State for five years after graduation. In this paper, I use administrative data from a large university and an event study design to estimate the effects of NSIP on student outcomes. I find that the program raises the likelihood of students majoring in STEM by 19% and graduating with a STEM degree by 17%. However, these results are driven almost entirely by effects on men. Thus, while NSIP does draw more students into STEM, it increases the STEM entry rate gender gap. Additionally, using American Community Survey data and a synthetic control approach, I estimate that NSIP considerably increases in-state students' likelihood of choosing STEM occupations within New York State.
Note: I presented my job market paper at ASSA 2023 Annual Meeting in New Orleans, LA.
"Tuition Exemption and Employment: Evidence from China’s Reform on Vocational Secondary Education" Working Paper
Abstract: To provide fair educational opportunities and enhance the attractiveness of vocational secondary education (VSE), China has gradually implemented free-tuition policies for VSE in various provinces. The overall effects of tuition exemption on the educational, labor market, and social outcomes are unknown. In this paper, I exploit the staggered policy implementation across provinces and provide causal evidence of tuition exemption of VSE’s impacts on these outcomes. Using data from China Family Panel Studies, I find that tuition exemption succeeded in improving enrollment in vocational secondary schools, particularly among women. Additionally, I find the policy encourages labor market participation and increases personal income, somewhat weakening the gender gap in earnings.
Works in Progress
"Improving Metacognition in the Economics Classroom" with Irene Foster and Marilyn Markel
"Educational Impacts of Making College Tuition-Free” with Scott Barkowski and Joanne Song McLaughlin
"The Effects of STEM-Focused Scholarship on College Student Outcomes: Evidence from American Community Survey"
"Does Free College Tuition Encourage STEM Majors Attrition?: Evidence from Administrative Data"
"Need-Based Scholarship and Field of Study in China’s Vocational Secondary Education: Evidence from Administrative Data"