Asa Daniel Businge was born in Tanzania and moved to Botswana as a child where he did his early schooling. His father was the first in his family to attend university (he studied dentistry in Russia) and Daniel always wanted to attend university like his father and make his family proud.
Daniel attended a coed boarding school in South Africa where he flourished. In his final year of high school, he was researching possible universities and discovered Memorial University.
He arrived in Newfoundland in September 2012 and completed his BA in economics. He is now enrolled in a masters program in the same department.

How and why did you decide to attend Memorial for your graduate degree?

After completing my undergraduate degree at Memorial University and having enjoyed it, it just seemed natural that MUN was the perfect place to further my education.

The economics department, based on my experience, offers an environment that is conducive to learning and thus allows one to hone the skills and techniques required to succeed in an ever changing competitive workplace.

Additionally, my years spent living in Newfoundland and embracing the culture of Newfoundlanders have caused me to consider St John’s my second home.

What drew you to explore economics originally?

Since as long ago as I can remember I have always been intrigued by the functionality of the natural world, in particular how human behaviours and interactions impact the economy. My curiosity has led me to my love of economics and statistics.

Can you tell us a bit about your current projects?

I am currently working on the application of wavelet transformation in time-series analysis as well as neural network applications to forecasting.

A supervisor can be key to the success of any grad student. What does your supervisor (Dr. Gubhinder Khundi) bring to their role as your advisor and mentor?

She is a very honest and approachable individual who not only helps you wrap your head around complex statistical techniques but also offers great encouragement and support throughout the journey.

Are you involved in any organizations on-campus or off? If so, can you explain and detail such involvement?

Not as of current.

What do you like most about being a graduate student at Memorial?

All the relationships and bonds I have formed not only with my colleagues but with faculty members as well.

What do you hope to do after completing your graduate degree?

I hope to either purse a second masters degree in applied statistics or pursue a career that allows me explore my love for econometrics and statistics.