Warwick economists lead the world in the Global Undergraduate Awards 2022

Warwick Economics graduates Victor Sosanya and Yijun Tang have been recognised for the outstanding quality of their research by the judges of the Global Undergraduate Awards 2022.

Victor (pictured receiving his award from Jim Barry, Chair of The Global Undergraduate Awards) was declared the Global WinnerLink opens in a new window in Economics, and Yijun the Regional WinnerLink opens in a new window (Europe).

The Global Undergraduate AwardsLink opens in a new window is an international academic awards programme that recognises originality, innovation, and excellence at the undergraduate level. It is open to all undergraduate students in universities, colleges and institutes around the world.

Victor’s award-winning paper was The Effect of Pre-University Work Experience on Graduate Wages. His supervisor was Dr. Eman Abdulla, Assistant Professor of Economics at Warwick.

In 2021, Victor was recognised as the UK’s 9th most outstanding African student by Future Leaders MagazineLink opens in a new window. Alongside achieving academic excellence and starting his career in banking Victor dedicates his time to delivering inspiration, encouragement and practical guidance through his podcast ‘ValuableLink opens in a new window’. His impact not only extends to the workplace and educational institutions but is felt in his local community.

Commenting on his award, Victor said:

“The countless hours spent in the library and with my supervisor were not in vain. I’m glad I had the opportunity to conduct independent research. But to be globally recognised for my efforts and research is truly humbling. To God be the glory!”

As Global Winner for Economics, Victor received a gold medal, a certificate of recognition, and an expenses-paid place at the UA Global Summit in Dublin. His paper will be uploaded to the Undergraduate Library, an open access library dedicated to the preservation and exhibition of all award-winning entries of The Global Undergraduate Awards Programme.

Yijun’s Highly Commended paper was Who entered the high-wage industries in China? The importance of network, hukou, and productivity factors. His work was supervised by Professor Abhinay Muthoo.

As Regional Winner, Yijun was recognised as the highest performing Highly Commended Entrant for the Economics category in Europe.

Yijun said:

“It has been a great honour to be chosen as the European regional winner in the Global Undergraduate Awards 2022. I'll build on this achievement and continue to work hard in the study of Economics and the research field. Also, I would like to thank Professor Abhinay Muthoo for his guidance and continuous support, and Professor Caroline Elliott, the module leader of Research in Applied Economics, for her insightful comments.”

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Economics student reaches final of prestigious global competitionLink opens in a new window - Yijun Tang was chosen as one of four finalists in an international competition organised by the prestigious International Atlantic Economic Society (IAES), published on 17 October 2022