Skip to main content

SoBigData Articles

Studies of international migration: TNA visit in Paris 2024

During my three-week stay from March 4th to March 22nd, 2024, I had the privilege of residing in the vibrant city of Paris, hosted at the Paris School of Economics. Collaborating closely with Prof. Hillel Rapoport, my time was dedicated to immersive research endeavours and active participation in various academic seminars and events. The stay provided an invaluable opportunity to engage in stimulating discussions and exchange ideas with fellow scholars, enriching my understanding of contemporary economic theories and methodologies. Attending seminars offered insights into cutting-edge research trends and fostered networking opportunities within the academic community.

Moreover, the lively atmosphere of Paris offered a culturally enriching backdrop, allowing for moments of leisure exploration and appreciation of the city's rich history and vibrant culture. From wandering along the banks of the Seine River to exploring iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, every corner of Paris exuded charm and elegance. I found myself captivated by the city's timeless beauty and the juxtaposition of its historic architecture with modern urban life. The Parisian culinary scene was another highlight of my stay, with its renowned cafes, bistros, and patisseries tempting me with an array of delectable delights. From indulging in freshly baked croissants for breakfast to savouring splendid French cuisine at quaint bistros for dinner, each culinary experience was a gastronomic adventure in itself.

Furthermore, forging connections with fellow scholars and immersing myself in the vibrant intellectual milieu of Paris allowed for invaluable networking opportunities and cross-cultural exchanges. These interactions not only enriched my understanding of diverse perspectives but also cultivated lasting friendships and professional collaborations that transcend geographical boundaries. Participating in discussions during seminars or exchanging personal experiences over coffee breaks fostered a welcoming atmosphere of collaboration and collegiality among peers.

Additionally, I had the privilege of connecting with individuals who possess expertise complementary to my own during my stay. I am eager to maintain these valuable connections and have already engaged in insightful discussions regarding potential future research directions. Furthermore, I've received constructive feedback on previous research projects, extending beyond the scope of my current endeavour.

My scientific journey embarked with a compelling project centred on unravelling the intricate relationship between food consumption behaviour, the proximity to ethnic restaurants, and electoral outcomes. Guided by theoretical frameworks rooted in political economics, our endeavour aimed to gather pioneering data through online platforms, paving the way for innovative studies in this domain. Delving into the heart of our research, we conducted extensive data gathering exercises, meticulously sourcing information on demographic profiles, economic indicators, and immigration histories relevant to our selected cities. This comprehensive approach ensured a robust foundation for our analyses, allowing us to capture the nuanced dynamics at play. Moreover, I delved into extensive literature reviews, immersing myself in existing theories and empirical studies pertaining to food consumption behaviours, cultural integration, and electoral dynamics. These deep dives not only enriched our conceptual framework but also unveiled key variables crucial for our subsequent research phases. Ultimately, this journey highlighted the balanced synergy between meticulous data analysis and theoretical exploration, providing a solid platform for understanding food consumption behaviours and electoral dynamics.

In retrospect, my stay at the Paris School of Economics was a transformative experience, characterised by scholarly growth, cultural immersion, and meaningful connections. It served as a testament to the boundless opportunities for intellectual and personal enrichment that await those who venture beyond familiar shores in pursuit of knowledge and discovery. The memories of my time in Paris will continue to inspire and motivate me in my academic and professional pursuits, leaving an indelible mark on my academic journey.

I am deeply grateful to Prof. Rapoport, his team, and the fellow visitors I had the pleasure of meeting during the TNA visit for making it such a stimulating and fruitful experience. I also want to extend my sincere thanks to the SoBigData++ consortium for their support and making this opportunity possible.