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Hector Reyes
PhDEI Fellow at New York University
Professional Background
Hector Reyes is a talented individual with a diverse background in economics and mathematics. He has demonstrated a profound understanding of economic principles and quantitative analysis through his academic journey. Beginning as a student-athlete at Valparaiso University, he not only excelled in academics, achieving a GPA of 3.88, but also became involved in various campus organizations that aimed to enhance awareness and inclusivity of multicultural identities. This early engagement in leadership and community-building set the stage for his future endeavors.
Hector's passion for economics was sparked by witnessing the economic challenges faced by his fellow Puerto Ricans during a prolonged recession. This life experience ignited his ambition to contribute actively to the field of economics, with the ultimate goal of becoming an economic advisor for the governor of Puerto Rico. His decision to transfer to the University of Southern California (USC) in 2017 proved to be a pivotal moment in his academic career. At USC, he took on the role of lab director at the Lab on Non-Democratic Politics, where he successfully managed a team of 20 research assistants. This leadership role allowed him to refine his research skills and gain invaluable insights into the complexities of international relations and politics.
Currently, Hector serves as a fellow of the PhD Excellence Initiative at New York University. This prestigious fellowship recognizes his outstanding achievements and potential for academic excellence. His next academic chapter is set for Stanford University, where he will pursue a JD and PhD in Economics. This dual degree program aligns perfectly with his aspirations of influencing public policy and academia, particularly in his home territory of Puerto Rico.
Education and Achievements
Hector Reyes's educational trajectory has equipped him with a robust foundation in economics and mathematics. He completed his Bachelor of Science (BS) degree, majoring in Economics and Mathematics at the University of Southern California, further refining the skills necessary for analysis and critical thinking. Prior to that, Hector started his academic journey at Valparaiso University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in the same fields, where he also gained recognition as an Economics Peer Tutor, helping fellow students excel in their studies.
His summer program at Michigan State University focused solely on economics, allowing him to deepen his understanding in a concentrated environment, networking with peers and professionals in the field.
Throughout his academic career, he has held various research positions that demonstrate his dedication and expertise:
- IDDEAS Scholar at Stanford University Graduate School of Business - A role that further illustrated his commitment to innovative economic thought.
- Research Assistant at the University of Southern California and Indiana Space Grant Consortium - Positions that provided hands-on experience in research methodologies and contributed significantly to projects that align with his interests in economic challenges and space exploration.
- Computational Social Science Researcher at the University of Notre Dame - This role underscores his adaptability and analytical capabilities.
Hector's diverse experiences extend beyond academia; his time as an athlete has developed his discipline and teamwork skills, vital attributes in any professional setting.
Achievements
Hector Reyes's journey showcases a blend of academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to social impact. His achievements include:
- Academic Excellence: Graduating with a 3.88 GPA from Valparaiso University and maintaining a strong academic presence at USC.
- Leadership Experience: Serving as a lab director, leading research initiatives, and managing a sizable team effectively.
- Research Contributions: Participating in diverse research projects and initiatives that highlight his analytical skills and commitment to economic and social issues.
- Fellowship Award: Being selected as a PhDEI Fellow at NYU, an honor that underscores his potential in academic research.
- Interdisciplinary Academic Pursuits: His decision to dual-enroll in a JD and a PhD program at Stanford demonstrates his ambition to blend the fields of law and economics for public service.
Through these milestones, Hector has positioned himself as a rising star in both the academic and social spheres, dedicated to making impactful contributions that uplift his community and beyond.
