Research and Development Center

MARYLINE

Year in School: Master's in Economics

Major / Minor: Economics

Extracurricular Activities @ U of I: U of I Shotokan Karate Club; Cosmopolitan House International Coffee Hours; dancing; going to concerts and dance events at the Krannert center; hanging out with friends from all over the world

Hometown: Marignier, France 

Is your hometown known for anything? It might be known for being on the circuit of the "Tour de France" certain years (and thus even being on TV!). Otherwise, it is a small and rather boring town, but the good thing about Marignier is that it is located in the French Alps. Therefore, everything around is great: the incredibly beautiful sceneries, the close ski resorts and Italy and Switzerland just at the corner.

Favorite thing to do on campus: Getting amused by cute squirrels and going to Jerusalem restaurant.

What do you do in your spare time? Inviting friends to watch funny movies while eating something I cooked for them.

Favorite Holiday: Summer holidays (when I have some!). In particular, I love the summer house where my family used to spend vacation in Portugal. Just going through its door evokes so many souvenirs…

Favorite Food: A warm chocolate croissant

Favorite Movie: I have a special inclination for "My father’s glory" (French movie: "La gloire de mon père"). It reminds me of my childhood…

If you could have dinner with anyone from history or present day, who would it be and why? Agatha Christie. Considering the good time I had reading her novels, a dinner with her (or just a tea) would certainly be entertaining, although I would feel all my moves are being scrutinized…

How long have you been working at the RC? Three semesters (Fall 2008, Spring and Summer 2009).

Why did you decide to work for the RC? To gain professional experience and apprehend the working environment in the United States

What is your project about? My summer project in the Actuarial department consisted of identifying events that might have a significant and unexpected impact on State Farm – mostly economy-driven shocks or bubbles – and suggest econometric techniques that might allow for their detection in their early stages of development. The ultimate goal is to propose reliable statistical tools that might help State Farm better manage risk associated with disruptive shocks. I also worked on a very interesting group project designed to estimate the market penetration of anti-collision technologies in future vehicles, as well as the potential impacts these systems might have on State Farm’s business model.

What is your favorite thing about working here? I was impressed by the exposure we got, especially during the summer. We had the opportunity to present our work to large audiences including vice-presidents and even members of the Chairman’s council. Being given a real chance to make an impact on the company as well as being directly recognized for the work we produce is a true source of motivation. It makes work exciting on a daily basis.