"The more distant memory our graduation becomes, the stronger I realise how formative the CEU years had been for what eventually became of me. Four elements seem essential: (1) a first class, rigouros and systematic training in economics; (2) focus on the region, especially with regard to policy issues; (3) proximity of other departments, equally top-notch, that allows for time-efficient interdisciplinary forays, and (4) the liberal atmosphere that encourages open-mindedness, diversity and rationality in intellectual endeavour.
