People are the real wealth of a nation.

My motivation in applying to this master's is summarised by this philosophy, as no goal is more significant than human development. Consequently, putting people at the centre of discussion and policy formation is essential. By studying Economic Demography, I will investigate the consequences and causes of population growth while also addressing my interest in economics and thus exploring the relationship between economy and population. Moreover, I am fascinated by the ever-changing nature of challenges posed by demographic transition and would like to further explore population ageing, which I discovered while studying in Australia. I am also concerned by the measurement of living standards as an alternative to GDP measured economic growth. Given Scandinavias high performance in many of these studies I would be keen to explore the subject while experiencing the way of life firsthand. I hope to benefit from the course academically, personally and professionally. It will give me the experience and expertise necessary to assume more responsibility in my career by broadening and deepening my knowledge and understanding of topics which are fundamental to the work of international organisations. I also hope to develop my research and analytical skills, both quantitative and qualitative, which are essential in pursuing a career in public policy. Additionally, I would hope to improve my written and oral communication skills as an ability to draft and make interesting and persuasive presentations is vital in the professional world. First and foremost my contribution to the course will come from my professional experience in an international organisation where I have learnt about the institutional context of the OECD, its inner workings and multilateral discourse in general. I will also be able to picture the content of the course from a practical point of view. My professional experience to date has also enhanced my ability to use my initiative and work independently. At the same time I have gained experience being part of a multicultural team, and have been able to develop excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Finally, I am a native English-speaker and am fluent in French. I have a fairly good working level of Spanish and basic knowledge of Swedish which I am continuing to pursue.

Immediately after graduating I hope to gain a traineeship at the OECD in the field of demography or development. Alternatively, I would seek professional experience in a development think-tank or agency, national government or other international organisation for example. I plan to achieve these goals by dedicating myself to postgraduate study and achieving the highest grades possible while gaining as much knowledge as I can. I will attain expertise in the field within which I specialise. Additionally I will build solid working relationships with my professors and fellow students, while maintaining an awareness of any possible opportunities for work experience or internships. I will not limit my personal interests specifically to the field of study as a demonstrated understanding of a broad range of subjects is imperative to professional success. In an ideal world my career would progress to a professional position at the OECD or similar organisation. After gaining initial work experience I would apply to the Young Professional Programme in order to gain two years of training in the hope of securing a permanent position. While I am focused and very ambitious with regards to my career, I am also open-minded and prepared to embrace opportunities where they can be created or present themselves.