Undergraduate Essay Competition 2023/24

Are you interested in how Economics can be applied to contemporary issues? Are you looking for a competitive edge when applying for internships? Want to stand out in CVs, cover letters, and other applications? Then we have just the opportunity for you! 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This Christmas, the Durham University Economics Society is running an essay competition open to all those who study an Economics degree.

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Taking part is a great way to demonstrate your interest in Economics beyond the academic course requirements, which will help you stand out in CVs, cover letters, and other applications.

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Eligibility:

All entrants must be an undergraduate student at Durham University and study Economics as part of their degree.

 

Prizes:

There are two Amazon Vouchers up for grabs:

 

1. £75 for the overall best essay.

2. £50 for the best essay written by a first year student.

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Winning entries will have their essays published on the DUES blog!

 

Requirements:

The essay should be a maximum of 1500 words, written analytically using sound economic reasoning, and provide an answer to one of the following questions:

 

Questions:

1. Examine how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising the structure of employment. Discuss the potential shifts in the labour market dynamics due to AI in the short and long term and propose how regulation and policy could mitigate challenges while maximizing opportunities.

 

2. Critically assess the balance between environmental sustainability and economic growth. Explore the differing challenges and opportunities this balance presents for developed versus developing nations, using specific case studies to anchor your analysis.

 

3. Identify the critical factors influencing productivity in the United Kingdom. Evaluate the effectiveness of recent policy initiatives on productivity enhancement and suggest evidence-based policy recommendations for future action.

 

4. Analyse the effects of China's economic strategies and outbound investments on the economic landscapes of other emerging markets. Discuss the dual nature of China's impact as both an opportunity and a challenge for these economies.

 

5. Explain the role of financial markets in shaping the contemporary global economy. How are technological innovations redefining the efficiency and stability of these financial markets?

 

6. Analyse the risks to the global economic forecast presented by geopolitical instabilities and residual pandemic upheavals. What pre-emptive policy measures could be designed to buffer these risks and foster economic resilience?

 

Submission:

Please submit all entries by email to economics.society@durham.ac.uk by Wednesday 31st January 2024.

 

The winners will be announced shortly after the deadline closes. 

 

We look forward to reading your submissions!

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