Conference Details

Introduction   Conference Presentation Structure   Research Guidelines and Application Procedures   Travel, Accommodations, and Other Expenses

FAQ

  1. What is the total cost?
  2. What is the application procedure?
  3. What if I’m not done with my research?
  4. When will I hear whether I’ve been accepted?
  5. What is the schedule for the conference?
  6. When should I plan to arrive and depart?
  7. Which airport or train station is nearest to Georgetown University?
  8. What is the dress code?
  9. How should I prepare my presentation?
  10. How should I prepare my discussion?

Introduction

The 7th Annual Carroll Round, to be hosted over the weekend of April 17-20 2008 on the Georgetown University campus offers 30-40 distinguished seniors from the nation's most selective colleges and universities unique opportunities to present original economic research and to discuss contemporary policy issues. The conference represents a new students' round of economic discussion and debate in light of the momentous changes that have occurred in the global economy. Conceived entirely by undergraduates, sponsored by Georgetown's John Carroll Scholars Program and Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service, the event will resemble a professional conference in form and content. It will focus primarily on participants' submissions followed by discussions addressing leading theories in the discipline, research methodologies and their application to policy-making. Students will have the chance to view policymaking and policymakers in action and interact with distinguished members of the economics community. We hope this conference and the exchange it fosters will embolden students to continue pursuing innovative ideas and rewarding careers in international economics.

Conference Presentation Structure

Student presentations in the Carroll Round will take place in panels consisting of eight student participants chaired by a faculty member. The five panels will be organized according to broad topical themes in international economics based on applicants' submissions. Possible topics may include:

-the role of international institutions/organizations in mediating conflict
-the development of economic theories related to currency unions, exchange rate target zones, coordinated monetary policy, and capital and labor markets
-the role of international science and technology spillovers in promoting economic growth
-the positive and negative aspects of capital market liberalization and structural adjustment policies in developing countries.

Two presentations will take place per scheduled session on each panel. Discussants will be assigned prior to the conference in order to facilitate dialogue. There will be ample time for discussion among panel and audience members so that participants will be able to revise and edit their work for the future.

Research Guidelines and Application Procedures

Independent research includes senior theses and major academic projects completed through coursework or job experiences. Submissions, either qualitative or quantitative, should be as scientific as possible. Thus, we ask applicants to submit only papers that would qualify as thesis research. Since student presentations will most likely cover work in progress, participants should benefit greatly from comments and feedback from both experts and fellow students. It is not necessary to submit a completed paper in order to participate, though submitted work must be significant enough for a conference presentation.

Participants will be chosen based on the strength of their research design, general interest in economic studies and academic record. We intend to make decisions on a rolling basis in order to give participating students enough time to make travel arrangements. Therefore, the sooner an application is received, the sooner a decision can be returned.

Travel, Accommodations, and Other Expenses

Funds may be available to cover the cost of transportation to Washington for participants. In addition, the Carroll Round will provide accommodations at the Georgetown Marriott Conference Center, which is conveniently located on campus. Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday, lunch on Friday, a banquet dinner on Friday evening, and lunch on Saturday will be included with your participation fee. Please contact the committee with all requests or questions regarding travel expenses and hotel arrangements. 

Carroll Round FAQ

What is the total cost?

There is a $125 registration fee that must be paid prior to attendance. Check with your home university’s Economics Department - in the past, many departments have sponsored participants and covered their registration fees.

The Carroll Round will arrange and pay for your accommodation at the Marriott Hotel and the majority of your meals and expenses. You will be responsible for two or three meals.

Transportation subsidies are available. Last year, the average subsidy was $250. Again, ask your home department if they can subsidize your travel.

What is the application procedure?

Complete the application and write a personal statement. As of March 21, 2008 applications are being accepted on a rolling basis for the 2008 conference. Following the submission of your application, you may be asked by the Steering Committee to submit additional information before a decision is made.

What if I’m not done with my research?

You can apply for either the first or second deadline depending on the current status of your thesis. Send your work in progress or a detailed proposal or abstract- a piece of writing that will give us an idea of your paper topic and quality. If you have any questions please do not hesistate to contact the steering committee.

When will I hear whether I’ve been accepted?

You will hear from the Steering Committee regarding your acceptance no later than Monday March 31, 2008.

What is the schedule for the conference?

The conference schedule is posted here.

When should I plan to arrive and depart?

There is an informal get-together on Thursday evening. You are not required to attend but, in the past, students have appreciated this chance to meet before the busy conference schedule begins. You must be dressed and ready by Friday morning for presentations starting at 9:00 AM.

There is a formal closing ceremony on Sunday morning. Our guest speaker will give an address and present awards to the best participant papers and contributions. The ceremony will end by 1:00 PM. You may depart right after or have lunch/sightsee with your new friends.

When booking your transportation, please keep in mind that an original receipt and boarding pass are required for Georgetown to process reimbursements.

Which airport or train station is nearest to Georgetown University?

Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA) and Union Station are located on the subway and are only short rides away from Georgetown. Other options include Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI). Please see Maps and Directions or contact us if you have any further questions.

What is the dress code?

There is a mixture of formal and informal events so be prepared for business, business casual and casual dress. Check the conference schedule to see what is required at each event.

How should I prepare my presentation?

Please see the Guidelines for Presentation and Discussion for detailed information. You are free to use almost any type of media equipment - computer for PowerPoint, transparency projector, blackboard, etc. Let us know what type of media equipment you require and send us final copies of any files you will be using (including handouts).

How should I prepare my discussion?

Please see the Guidelines for Presentation and Discussion and also How to Discuss/Critique a Paper Constructively for detailed information.