Norma Padron. M.A. 2008

Founder & CEO, EmpiricaLab – New York, NY

2008: M.A. Economics

Why did you decide to get a master's degree in economics from Duke?

"Training in economics provides a great framework that can help you ask questions about individual or organizational behaviors. I was drawn to applied microeconomics and within that, specifically to topics of labor economics and healthcare. My training in economics at Duke certainly shaped my interest in healthcare and moreover, the community of friends and mentors from Duke has championed me and my professional and academic journey over now 15 years!"

What advice would you give students in Duke's Economics programs? 

"Seek an area of interest and build skills that can help you dive deep and develop subject matter expertise in that area. Of course, you might change your mind and want to explore other areas as you advance through your training and professional journey, but building deep knowledge and expertise has a lot of advantages and can help you strengthen transferable skills that will help you as you move forward. Also, go to a basketball game or two!"

Padron