The strong engagement from conference attendees with Ahad’s research came as an unexpected highlight, he said, leaving a lasting impression on his overall conference experience.
“People stopped, asked questions and wanted to discuss my findings,” he said. “What stood out most was their curiosity about where I would take the research next.”
Ahad credits Subhadra Ganguli, assistant professor of business at Penn State Lehigh Valley, as a key influence throughout his research process.
“She pushed me to think more carefully about my methodology and encouraged me to stray from shortcuts when it came to econometrics,” he said. “I came into this project with a general idea, and her guidance helped me turn it into something I could defend at a national conference.”
The critical thinking required throughout the research process further solidified Ahad’s interest in pursuing a career in private equity (PE), he explained.
“This research reinforced me how much I enjoy the analytical side of finance, and that kind of thinking is exactly what PE requires,” he said.
For students interested in undergraduate research, Ahad emphasized the importance of knowing professors, pursuing ideas and connecting research to real-world applications.
“Your professors know about opportunities you’d never find on your own,” he said. “Don’t wait until you have the perfect idea — just start, and the topic will become clearer when you’re in it.”
Ahad also noted that motivation and engagement live within topics that are relevant to the real world.
“When your work answers a question that matters outside the classroom, it’s a lot more interesting for everyone who hears about it,” he said.
About Penn State Lehigh Valley
Penn State Lehigh Valley was established in 1912 and combines over a century of academic excellence with personalized instruction and industry-connected faculty. Students can choose from 11 baccalaureate degrees or begin any of Penn State’s 275+ majors through the 2+2 program. With small class sizes and advanced learning technology, our modern campus prepares students for success in the Lehigh Valley and beyond. For more information, visit the Lehigh Valley website.