Shiyuan Xu
MSc Economics and International Financial Economics

Why did you choose Warwick?
I chose Warwick primarily because of its strong academic reputation in economics. As one of the top economics institutions in the UK, it truly attracted me. Furthermore, my undergraduate institution, SUFE in China, has a partnership program with Warwick, which provides me with a unique opportunity to join Warwick more easily compared to my peers, allowing me to pursue my master's degree at such an excellent institution.
What skills have you developed?
- Learning ability - The MSc program at Warwick is intense, demanding a high level of learning ability. To master both in-class and extracurricular knowledge, I focus on preparing in advance, actively participating in class, and consolidating what I’ve learned through review, reading relevant literature, and completing exercises. I also engage in discussions with peers, regularly summarize key concepts, and continuously refine my learning methods to efficiently tackle the challenges of the program
- Communication skills - The MSc program has provided me with opportunities to interact and collaborate with students from diverse backgrounds, helping me develop cross-cultural communication skills.
- Academic skills - The MSc program emphasises the development of core skills such as economic analysis, literature review, and information gathering. It has helped me master economic analytical methods, broaden my academic perspective, and enhance my critical thinking. Through these trainings, I have become more proficient in gathering and integrating information, providing a solid foundation for solving complex problems, and preparing for future career development.
What has been the highlight so far?
The MSc program at Warwick not only focuses on academic development but also offers rich practical opportunities. For example, as the secretary of SSLC, I am responsible for conveying students' opinions and assisting the department in organizing events. This has enhanced my communication, coordination, and organizational skills. These experiences have helped me accumulate valuable practical skills in teamwork and project management, while also enabling me to contribute in leadership and support roles outside of academia. In this role, I am not only able to better represent the students' voices but also contribute to the smooth running of departmental activities.
What are your career aspirations and how will the skills you have learnt support this?
I plan to return to my home country after graduation and work as a National Economic Analyst. This role requires a strong foundation in economics, along with excellent analytical, literature review, social analysis, and information-gathering skills. During my time at Warwick, I have gradually developed these abilities, which will support my career aspirations.