The Don Lavoie Fellowship is an online program tailored for advanced undergraduates, recent graduates, and prospective graduate students interested in the political economy. With a total award of up to $1,250, including a stipend and all required readings for online events, fellows benefit from comprehensive guidance on research, job opportunities, and pursuing further education. This competitive and renewable fellowship offers participants a unique opportunity to engage in online activities, discussions, and reading sessions led by esteemed scholars, fostering a rich learning environment and facilitating connections within the dynamic Mercatus community.
ProFellow enjoyed speaking with Ishita Bagchi, a dynamic Social Impact Programs Officer at Young Leaders for Active Citizenship (YLAC) in New Delhi. Ishita has a Master’s in Development and Labour Studies and an inclined focus on gender-related public policy. Learn about her inspiring story from economics to impactful policy work, her achievements, and her current role as a Don Lavoie Fellow at Mercatus Center, George Mason University.
Can you tell us about your background? What made you interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s in Economics and then a Master’s in Development and Labour Studies?
Back in school, I took up Economics as an elective in class eight out of curiosity. I just wanted to know what exactly the subject was all about. Gradually, over time, my love for the subject kept growing. I wanted to know more about what drove consumers’ behaviors, how economics played a role in politics, and how economic decisions at the highest level impact the people at the grassroots. These questions further motivated me to take economics as my bachelor’s degree.
During my bachelor’s, I further learned about the concept of intersectionality, which helped me to learn how Economics doesn’t and cannot function in silos. To truly understand Economics, one must grasp the concept of intersectionality and its relation to politics, sociology, gender, caste, and class. The multidisciplinary aspect of Development Economics made me curious about this branch of study.
That’s how I ended up applying for Development Studies and Labour Economics courses in a few universities and finally got the opportunity to study Development and Labour Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University, India.
Afterward, you went on to win the Youth Ki Awaaz Action Network Fellowship and Climate Justice Fellowship. Can you share your experience during these programs?
I am keenly interested in Public Policy and its intersectionality with the gendered lens, which encouraged me to undertake a fellowship by “Youth ki Awaaz” in Menstrual Health Policy in 2020, for which I have also won a seed grant of 50,000 INR. As a part of this campaign, I have conducted multiple on-ground surveys whose findings were published and shared by “Youth ki Awaaz.” The surveys involved understanding the impact of not having access to inclusive, period-friendly washrooms in the metro stations in Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal in India. I also presented the survey findings to the state’s government panel in the Public Health and Public Works Department. Recently, Business Mint awarded me the title of “30 under 30 emerging expert” in Public Policy and Gender Rights for my work in menstrual health management.
While working on gender research for the menstrual health fellowship, I also stumbled upon the gendered aspects of climate change and fast fashion. This also allowed me to attend the Climate Justice Fellowship with Youth Ki Awaaz. As a part of the fellowship, I authored three long-form articles, which were a combination of interviews with climate activists and thrifting enthusiasts. I had the opportunity to interact with multiple people during this fellowship, which not only taught me a lot but also made me aware of inherent research biases and gave me more reasons to continue learning gender research.
Then you won the Don Lavoie Fellowship! How did you come across this opportunity, and what motivated you to apply?
My research during my bachelor’s and master’s degrees has always been driven by a desire to understand the intersections of gender, caste, class, and culture within different political economies. This interdisciplinary approach aligned perfectly with the Mercatus Center Fellowship’s emphasis on innovative research methods and the Austrian School of Economics. I was particularly drawn to this fellowship because it deepened my understanding of diverse viewpoints within a country’s political economy.
The podcast titled “Ideas of India” by the Mercatus Center also profoundly interested me, which further led me to read more about the opportunities at Mercatus Center, and that’s how I stumbled upon the fellowship opportunity. One particular episode that captured my attention was “The Great Gender Divergence.” I resonated with the findings and commentaries made on that episode. It reflected the realities of contemporary India with a gendered perspective.
An article that I found especially intriguing from the commentary section explained why India could not have the same ripple effects that it had from the 1991 Globalisation, Liberalisation, and Privatisation policies. I found these works insightful and inspiring regarding the in-depth research done by researchers at the Mercatus Center.
As a remote fellow, what have you learned? Has there been a particular highlight so far?
The fellowship has helped me gain a more in-depth understanding of the Austrian School of Economics, which I am very interested in. Understanding political economy from different schools of thought has been helpful for me in developing my niche in gender studies and political economy, which is also the focus area of my prospective PhD proposals.
As an aspiring Ph.D. student, I would like to explore more diverse schools of thought in political economy to better answer research questions, contribute meaningfully to the existing Gender studies analysis, and add new knowledge to the field.
This fellowship has significantly contributed to my understanding and clarification of diverse schools of political economy. I have also greatly benefitted from the research materials and books I have received from the fellowship. These materials have supported my learning and research abilities, improving the scope and hypothesis of my research.
Moreover, the biggest highlight has been the online book discussions, where we discuss one book from the list of prescribed study materials for the fellowship every fortnight. This method is an excellent way to motivate us to complete reading books. It also provided opportunities for various discussions on what we learned and took away from the reading materials and the concepts presented.
And finally, can you share some advice for others interested in economics and the Don Lavoie fellowship?
As a Don Lavoie fellow, I have been immersed in a dynamic community of scholars and thinkers dedicated to exploring the ideas of Friedrich Hayek, Ludwig von Mises, and other leading figures in the Austrian School of Economics. Through seminars, workshops, and engaging discussions, I have gained invaluable insights into the principles of the Austrian, Bloomington, and Virginia Schools of Economic Thought.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the fellowship is the opportunity to collaborate with fellow scholars and researchers from diverse backgrounds. Whether delving into the intricacies of economic theory or discussing the implications of policy decisions, the exchange of ideas is always stimulating and thought-provoking.
Moreover, the mentorship and guidance provided by renowned scholars and experts in the field have been instrumental in creating a safe space for diverse opinions and debates. Their insights challenged me to think critically and explore new perspectives.
If you are a recent graduate or a young professional passionate about exploring the ideas of these schools of Economic Thought and advancing economic scholarship, I encourage you to seize this incredible opportunity and apply for the Don Lavoie Fellowship.
Regarding the application process, you need to write two essays and submit a cover letter, resume, and some other basic details. One of the essays focuses on why you want to apply for the fellowship. Remember to tailor the essay to reflect your unique experiences, interests, and goals. Use clear and concise language, and proofread your essay carefully to ensure clarity and coherence. The second essay requires you to write about an author or a book that has inspired you. This book can be anything ranging from a political economy book to a sociopolitical novel as well. As long as you can clearly explain and personalise your essay to justify the what and why of why you find the book or the author inspiring, you are good to go.
A friendly tip: Do pick only one author or book. They are not going to judge you on the basis of how many authors or books you can list; rather, they are going to see your authenticity in the essay.
If you’re interested in applying to the Don Lavoie Fellowship? Bookmark it to your ProFellow account for the next call for applications!
Ishita Bagchi is a Social Impact Programs Officer at Young Leaders for Active Citizenship (YLAC) in New Delhi. Ishita holds a Master’s in Development and Labour Studies from Jawaharlal Nehru University and a Bachelor’s in Economics. Her focus lies in Public Policy, especially its gendered lens, demonstrated through a Menstrual Health Policy fellowship with Youth ki Awaaz, where she secured a 50,000 INR seed grant. Ishita manages The Wannabe Economist, a newsletter simplifying complex issues on gender and economics. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice and Business Mint 30 under 30 Emerging Industry Expert, she is currently a Don Lavoie Fellow at Mercatus Center, George Mason University, researching political economy and governance. Additionally, Ishita volunteers with “Women in Econ/Policy,” mentoring aspiring students in Economics and Policy careers. She is currently considering pursuing a Ph.D. in economics.
© 2024 ProFellow, LLC. All rights reserved.