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Cecilia Rouse's Story: Driving the Engine of Economic Growth

February 4, 2011 at 2:29 PM ET by Cecilia Rouse
Summary: 
Cecilia Rouse, a member of the President's Council of Economic Advisers, discusses her role in shaping economic policy, and encourages students to pursue economics.

Ed. note: This post is part of the Celebrating Black History Month series that highlights the contributions of African-Americans who are contributing to the President's vision of winning the future though their work.

As a member of the White House Council of Economic Advisers (CEA), I work on a wide range of issues, including employment, education, housing, the budget, and the economics of workplace flexibility.  In addition, I represent the CEA at a variety of inter-agency meetings and frequently attend meetings with the President and the Vice President.  The mission of the CEA is to offer the President objective economic advice on the formulation of both domestic and international economic policy.  We base our recommendations and analysis on economic research and empirical evidence, using the best data available to support the President in setting the nation's economic policy.

During the State of the Union, the President laid out his vision for winning the future. As the President’s strategy is aimed squarely at fostering robust and balanced economic growth, I, along with the other economists at the CEA, have been integral to identifying and shaping key policy levers to help achieve these goals. An important part of our work is to help design effective policy that generates economic growth that is broadly shared by all.

Because the CEA is involved in all aspects of the Administration’s economic policymaking, it is a terrific place for young people to sharpen their analytical skills and to better understand how economics is used in practice. If you’re interested in the CEA, you should study lots of math, statistics/econometrics, and economics. Also, consider applying to come as a short-term intern, or to spend a year after you finish your undergraduate degree, or during your graduate studies.

Learn more about the Council of Economic Advisers and read Cecilia's full bio here.

Cecilia Rouse is a member of the President's Council of Economic Advisers.