Gevorg Minasyan is a name that is making waves in the world of policymaking. At just 25 years old, this young professional has already achieved great success in his career, thanks to his determination and passion for economics and data-driven decision making. Hailing from Armenia, Minasyan has recently made headlines for his achievements at the Central Bank of Armenia, where he has been applying the knowledge and skills he gained from his studies at MIT.
Minasyan’s journey towards becoming a policymaker began when he enrolled in the Data, Economics, and Design of Policy MicroMasters program at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2018. This online program, offered by MIT’s Department of Economics and the Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL), is designed to equip students with the necessary tools and techniques to analyze complex economic problems and design effective policies.
The program, which can be completed in just one year, consists of five courses that cover topics such as microeconomics, econometrics, and data analysis. Minasyan credits this program for giving him a solid foundation in economic theory and practical skills in data analysis, which he has been able to apply in his work at the Central Bank of Armenia.
After successfully completing the MicroMasters program, Minasyan was accepted into MIT’s Master’s in Data, Economics, and Development Policy (DEDP) program. This highly selective program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on research projects, providing students with a deeper understanding of economic development and policy issues.
During his time in the DEDP program, Minasyan had the opportunity to work on a research project with J-PAL, where he analyzed the impact of a cash transfer program on poverty reduction in Armenia. This experience allowed him to apply his skills in data analysis and economic theory to a real-world problem, giving him a taste of what it takes to develop effective policies.
Minasyan’s hard work and dedication paid off when he graduated from the DEDP program in 2023, with a master’s degree from MIT. Armed with a strong academic background and practical experience, he returned to his home country of Armenia and joined the Central Bank as an economist.
In his role at the Central Bank, Minasyan has been utilizing his knowledge and skills to shape policymaking decisions. He has been involved in projects related to financial inclusion, inflation targeting, and economic forecasting, among others. His expertise in data analysis has also been instrumental in developing evidence-based policies that have had a positive impact on the Armenian economy.
Minasyan’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. In 2023, he was awarded the prestigious Fulbright scholarship to continue his studies in the United States. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Economics at the University of Chicago, where he is focusing on development economics and the use of data in policymaking.
Minasyan’s success story is an inspiration to many young professionals, especially those from his home country. His determination to pursue his passion for economics and policymaking has led him to achieve great heights and make a positive impact in his community.
In an interview, Minasyan shared his thoughts on his journey and the role of education in shaping his career. He said, “My experience at MIT has been truly transformative. The knowledge and skills I gained from the MicroMasters and DEDP programs have been invaluable in my work at the Central Bank. I am grateful for the opportunity to continue my studies through the Fulbright scholarship, and I hope to use my education to contribute to the development of my country.”
Gevorg Minasyan’s story is a testament to the power of education and determination. His journey from Armenia to MIT and back to his home country is a reminder that with hard work and dedication, one can achieve their goals and make a positive impact in their community. As Minasyan continues to shape policymaking in Armenia, he serves as an inspiration to many young professionals, showing them that anything is possible with the right mindset and education.
