By Brittany Berrens
University Relations student writer

Saroj Dhital, a University of Wisconsin-Superior student majoring in mathematics and economics, is among eight students from University of Wisconsin campuses chosen to present research papers at the annual Wisconsin Economics Association annual conference Dec. 3 at UW-Eau Claire.

Dhital will discuss his economic forecasting paper that predicts the United States' future coal consumption if it continues at its present rate. He chose the subject after seeing a need to track the use of such a valuable but limited energy source.

"We need to know how much energy is used and what we need for the future," Dhital said. "Hopefully, people will think about how we can use alternative resources."

Dhital completed his research for his economics capstone course, which is required for students majoring in economics. He worked under the direction of Professor Dr. Robert Beam.

"The project is all about applying knowledge from the classroom onto real-world events," Beam said.

Dhital spent much of his time researching actual coal consumption figures to complete the forecasting model that closely predicts actual amounts of coal purchased.

Although the project led to countless hours spent working in the computer lab, Dhital said it was all worth it.

"I hope my research helps me get into graduate school," he said. He hopes to attend Yale University next fall to study developmental economics. He wants to use the knowledge he acquires in the United States to help people in his home country of Nepal.

Beam said undergraduate research is an important part of the economics program.

"We're pushing more students to consider grad school than ever before," he said. "That means research."