‘HSE Offers Endless Opportunities to Expand My Research Network’
Shweta Sikhwal, from India, is a research assistant at the International Center for the Study of Institutions and Development of the HSE University Institute for Industrial and Market Studies. In a seminar on May 26, 2023, she presented her paper ‘Can machine learning models provide a better forecast of money demand? Evidence from the Indian economy’ as part of a series on ‘Institutional Problems of the Russian Economy’. Shweta spoke to the HSE News Service about the seminar, her PhD research, and her experience of life in Moscow.
— Why did you choose HSE University?
— As a dedicated research enthusiast, I've always been intrigued by the prospect of collaborating with scholars from different fields and backgrounds. HSE offers endless opportunities to expand my research network thanks to its diverse academic community.
The exceptional quality of education, renowned faculty expertise, and unwavering commitment to academic excellence at HSE were pivotal factors that led me to pursue my PhD here.
— What do you think of life in Moscow?
— Living in Moscow has been an incredible experience for both my academic and personal growth. I reside in the PhD dormitory, where I've had the opportunity to connect with fellow PhD students from various fields. Our dorm community is vibrant, and we organise inclusive activities like board games, picnics, and cooking sessions to explore different cultures. I even had the chance to visit a ‘dacha’ for a friend's birthday celebration.
Personally, I enjoy discovering unique places, and Moscow never disappoints with its artistic spots. One thing I particularly love about the city is its parks, which offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling urban chaos.
My time in Moscow has been lively, as the city is filled with hidden gems.
— How's your PhD going?
— My PhD research focuses on studying monetary instability in emerging markets, specifically exploring the impact of global and domestic market uncertainties on these economies. Given the vulnerability of emerging markets to macroeconomic shocks, understanding these effects is crucial for implementing effective monetary policies, especially during turbulent times. Throughout my research journey, Professor Marek Dabrowski has provided invaluable support and guidance, for which I am deeply grateful.
— What are your plans for the future?
— As a third year PhD student, my main goal is to successfully defend my thesis.
I am excited to apply the skills and knowledge I have gained during my time at HSE and make meaningful contributions to the academic community.
— Tell us about your seminar experience.
— Recently, I had the opportunity to present at a seminar hosted by the International Center for the Study of Institutions and Development. During the seminar, I discussed the potential benefits of using machine learning models to predict money demand in the Indian economy. It was a fantastic learning experience, and I was thrilled to see the genuine interest and encouragement from the centre's members towards my work.