From Curiosity to Impact: The Making of a Global Economist

By Hala Alanani, 

I entered Al-Quds Bard College (AQB) in 2019, full of ambition and curiosity. Four transformative years later, I graduated with distinction in Economics, carrying not just a degree but a clear sense of the economist I am and aspire to become.

At AQB, I discovered the true meaning of academic inquiry. I was encouraged not merely to absorb theories, but to critically examine them, question established frameworks, and explore alternatives. My senior project, "Rethinking Economics Within the Framework of Neoliberal Education Systems in Palestinian Universities," embodied this spirit. It was recognized as the top research in the social sciences at the 5th Palestinian Undergraduate Research Conference—an achievement I deeply value, as it reflects the high academic standards I upheld throughout my time at AQB.

As I’m writing this and reflecting on the most meaningful aspect of my AQB experience, I, without a doubt, would say it was the personalized mentorship I received. I am particularly grateful to Professor Sobhi Samour, whose detailed and personalized feedback fueled my personal and academic growth. Our frequent one-on-one discussions always challenged my perspectives and pushed me to refine my thinking and articulate my ideas with greater clarity and conviction. 

AQB also opened doors to the world. Through opportunities offered by the Open Society University Network (OSUN), I got to travel to four countries across three continents. These experiences broadened my understanding of many multinational and multicultural issues in the world, complementing my theoretical studies through real-world experiences.

After graduation, I joined GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit) as a Knowledge Management and Communication Intern, contributing to the Green Growth Palestine project. I developed a knowledge database on green economy prospects in Palestine, translating theoretical knowledge into tangible development work. Later, I served as a Project Coordinator at Balasan Initiative for Human Rights in Beit Sahour, gaining a diverse skill set that further shaped my professional path.

Alongside my work, I remained committed to advancing my academic journey. I was honored to receive three prestigious postgraduate scholarships: a full tuition waiver at University College Dublin (UCD), a fully funded scholarship at the London School of Economics (LSE), and the Felix Scholarship to study at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. Recognizing SOAS’s distinctive critical approach to development economics and its strong focus on the Global South, I chose to pursue my MSc there. At SOAS, I have had the privilege of learning from leading economists such as Ha-Joon Chang, Costas Lapavitsas, Mushtaq Khan, and Surbhi Kesar—scholars whose work has shaped my academic thinking since my undergraduate years.

As I complete my final term at SOAS, I stand at the threshold of the next chapter in my professional and academic journey. My plans include pursuing work in development economics and eventually advancing to doctoral studies. My education thus far has fueled in me the conviction that economics can and should serve as an instrument for addressing global inequality, sustainability challenges, and social justice. This perspective, cultivated through my studies, international exposure, and dedicated mentorship at Al-Quds Bard, continues to inform my approach to professional practice today.

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