2012 The Donald Edward Bragg & Diane Sims Bragg Scholarship Recipient

Biography: Edward McLaughlin is a third-year student majoring in Business Economics. He grew up in Torrance, CA, with his parents and two siblings. In high school, he enjoyed playing baseball and wished to continue his athletic career in college; however, a torn triceps tendon effectively ended his hopes of continuing to play at the highest level. He acknowledged his comparative advantage in academic pursuits and decided to enroll at UCLA, where his increased emphasis on academics has allowed him to excel. He chose to major in Business Economics because of its relevance in the world today and the variety of practical applications for which the degree will provide a useful background. He enjoys reading, going to the beach, and playing sports.

Future Plans: Edward will work in the investment research division of a large investment bank upon graduation in June 2013. From there, he intends to rise within the bank but also has an interest in moving to the buy-side. Edward also has a strong interest in entrepreneurship. While he is currently working on several ventures, he has a special interest in eventually managing his own hedge fund.

What does the scholarship mean to me?: I want to thank the Bragg family for awarding me the Donald Edward Bragg and Diane Sims Bragg Scholarship. Their generosity exemplifies their commitment to undergraduate education in the Economics Department at UCLA. This scholarship will ease my financial burden and allow me to focus on my education and lessen the worry of the rising cost of tuition and extortionist textbook costs. I am proud that the Bragg family can now share in my future success.