Student Spotlight: Saira Pannu (SFS ’27)

Below, Saira Pannu (CULP ’27) from New York City reflects on her summer internship in NYC at the Berkley Research Group.

Q: What was your summer internship and what type of work did you do?
A: My summer internship was consulting at the Berkley Research Group in the Economics, Disputes, and Investigations practice. I supported economic experts in calculating financial damages in intellectual property and international arbitration litigation matters by conducting research, reviewing case documents, and developing financial analysis models to inform expert reports.

Q: What was your favorite part about the internship/were there any particular stand-out projects that you can share?
A: My favorite part of the internship was seeing how qualitative research could be transformed into quantitative analyses that could be interpreted and applied in different ways. I enjoyed the process of using detailed research and evidence to develop assumptions that informed financial models and supported broader case strategies. A standout project I worked on involved researching and drafting portions for an environmental international arbitration matter concerning the Kashagan oil fields in the Caspian Sea. I explored research on aquatic populations and environmental impacts, and then contributed to translating those findings into evidence-based assumptions that supported damages calculations. 

Q: How has your experience in IBD thus far prepared you for success in this position?
A: The curriculum structure of the IBD program was instrumental in preparing me for my experience at BRG. The coursework in GBUS 4400 and the program’s statistics requirement provided me with the analytical foundation and technical skills necessary to succeed in my internship. I was also fortunate to have a graduate of the IBD program working at BRG who served as an incredible mentor, offering guidance and helping me navigate the internship experience.

Q: What’s one fun summer activity you did outside of your internship?
A: Outside of my internship, I got to explore the New York City art galleries with my friends from Georgetown!