Essays in education, labour and urban economics

This thesis comprises three essays examining the labor market effects of honors programs, international student mobility, and the development of cities. In Chapter 2, we investigate the impact of honors programs on tertiary education, specifically at non-selective universities. Utilizing a quasi-experimental design, we find that attending an honors program enhances academic achievement and shapes future labour market prospects towards post graduate studies. Prospects are confirmed one year after graduation. Chapter 3 explores the effects of international student mobility on soft skills development. Using a novel dataset and an instrumental variable approach, I demonstrate that international student mobility works as an effective technology to shape soft skills. Mobile graduates sort into jobs where communication, creativity, team working, and problem-solving skills are more important. In Chapter 4, we evaluate the labor market and economic impacts resulting from tourism development triggered by a mega cultural event. We focus on Matera’s nomination as the 2019 European Capital of Culture. Utilizing event study regressions and permutation tests, we find a boost in tourism, leading to decreased unemployment, increased income, firms, and workers in sectors connected with tourism, as well as a notable impact on the real estate market. In summary, this thesis contributes to understanding the labor market dynamics related to honors programs, international student mobility, and cultural events’ economic effects. The findings highlight the importance of educational programs, international experiences, and cultural events in shaping individuals’ skills and driving economic development.