About Me
My first name, Yanghao (pronounced “Young How” in English), means “vast oceans” in Chinese. It was given by my parents with sincere wishes that I would grow up to be a broad-minded man.
My interest in Economics inspired me to cross the Pacific Ocean. After obtaining my bachelor’s degree at Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics, I came to the United States for graduate school. I received my Master’s degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and subsequently earned my Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.
I started my career in 2018 as an Analytical Scientist on a data science team at Ford Motor Company. In 2022, I joined Amazon (Whole Foods Market) as a Data Scientist and Economist. When I am not glued to my desk, I try my hardest not to be the worst badminton player on the court, and I love spending time with my family exploring the wilderness, visiting local parks, and traveling to new cities.
My extended family is rooted in the village of Guankeng, nestled in a valley within the northeastern mountains of Wuyuan (Google Maps 
), an area famous for its picturesque countryside views in Spring when vibrant rapeseed flowers bloom alongside ancient residential houses from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Dating back to the late Tang Dynasty, Guankeng was established in 783 and named to honor the residence of a general.
My paternal grandfather spent his entire life in Guankeng, and my aunt’s family still lives there today. Every year, my extended family gathers for a warm and wonderful reunion in Guankeng to celebrate the Spring Festival. The pictures below showcase the lovely winter views of Guankeng, as well as the women in my family making traditional green rice buns for our annual reunion dinner.
