# In an article on the value of pre-doc programs for economists, Professor and Dean Emeritus Peter Henry’s work with the PhD Excellence Initiative is highlighted

1 Faculty News August 8, 2020 ![The Economist logo](/sites/default/files/styles/246w/public/assets/images/uat_025662.jpg?itok=1_MW1PTy)>

Excerpt from [The Economist](https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2020/08/08/what-it-takes-to-become-an-academic-economist-is-changing) -- "Done well, pre-docs enrich both economists and economics. They help produce good research and open up the profession. [Peter Henry](https://www.stern.nyu.edu/faculty/bio/peter-henry) of New York University started his programme in 2014 to increase the representation of minorities. Camille Gardner, one of his pre-docs, says the experience has persuaded her to pursue a phd, and taught her skills important for graduate study, such as how to write a good paper. She thinks of Mr Henry as her mentor, 'not just my boss"'.

[Read More](https://www.economist.com/finance-and-economics/2020/08/08/what-it-takes-to-become-an-academic-economist-is-changing)