I am Aditi Desai, a policy researcher and journalist working at the intersection of economics, public policy and global development. My work spans academia, consulting, government and media, allowing me to bridge rigorous research with real-world policy and institutional contexts. I currently work in GRC Risk Consulting at PwC India and have previously worked with the U.S. Consulate General Mumbai, the Centre for New Economic Studies, universities, and grassroots organisations. This exposure has shaped my understanding of how policy, regulation, and development challenges play out both on paper and on the ground. My writing and research have been published in platforms such as India Development Review, The Wire, East Asia Forum, 360info, and the LSE Blog, and I have presented papers at national policy and economics conferences. I hold a B.Com. (Economics) from the University of Mumbai, graduating in the top 5% of my cohort, and have received multiple research awards for academic and applied work. Through Topmate, I work with students and early-career professionals who are navigating: - Master’s applications in public policy, economics, international relations, and development - Research projects, papers, and conference submissions - Fellowships, scholarships, and early policy or development careers - CVs, SOPs, and profile positioning for global opportunities