Biography: Lisa Tiutiunnik is a third-year student majoring in Economics with minors in Russian Language and Global Studies. Before immigrating to the United States in 2018 with her family, she grew up in Russia, where state-driven economic decisions and limited civic freedoms shaped daily life, igniting her interest in economic policy research. Balancing part-time work and full-time studies, Lisa developed a strong work ethic and a passion for data-driven research. On campus, she has participated in projects analyzing migration patterns, labor markets, and the economic impacts of environmental policy. She is currently involved in multiple research projects, where she explores the economic impacts of remote work on travel behavior and gender dynamics in fixed‐income portfolio management. Outside academics, Lisa likes to rollerblade and hike.
Future Plans: After graduating from UCLA, Lisa plans to attend graduate school to further study economics and policy. Her career goal is to become an economist focusing on public policy and research, working in a think tank or a policy organization, where she is able to contribute to decision-making and develop solutions to current economic problems.
What this scholarship means to me: I am deeply grateful for this scholarship because it not only eases the financial burden of my education but also empowers me to pursue graduate studies by allowing me to focus on advanced coursework and research rather than part-time work. This investment in my academic journey means more than words can express, and I look forward to giving back through research that advances equitable and sustainable economic solutions. Accepting this scholarship feels like a profound vote of confidence. I feel seen not just as a student, but as someone who arrived with limited resources, learned a new language, and is committed to creating positive change in the world.
