From Concepts to Consulting: Reflections at the Midpoint of Our SIRI Practicum

Our project has now reached a critical midpoint, and as I write this reflection, I find myself appreciating the multiple layers of learning it has offered. So far, the key takeaways fall into three main areas: industry insights, problem-solving skills, and group work reflection.

In terms of industry knowledge, I’ve found it incredibly valuable to combine the conceptual learning process in other courses with practical consulting in the SIRI Practicum. This integration has made it easier for me to connect the dots between theory and application. For example, while studying the electricity market in class, I often think about the potential role our client could play in making these systems more resilient and stable. This curiosity pushes me to conduct further research beyond the classroom. At the same time, our consulting work with a real-world client has helped me understand the nuances of electricity markets in different regions—insights that go far beyond textbook knowledge. This ongoing interaction between theory and practice is training me to apply academic knowledge more flexibly and to tailor it to real-world challenges, which is enriching my overall understanding of the energy industry.

One of the most important foundations we’ve built during the first half of the project is our research methodology. Given the complexity and scale of electricity markets, it’s not feasible to examine every jurisdiction's regulations or analyze all available data sets line by line. Therefore, identifying critical criteria to structure our research became essential. Through discussions with our client and initial market research, we established a two-step market selection approach.

In the first step, we used five key criteria to broadly evaluate global markets: market deregulation, pricing mechanisms, data accessibility, time zone alignment, and relevance to sustainable investing. These indicators help us efficiently scan through a large number of markets and shortlist the ones with real potential for further analysis. In the second step, we dive deeper into the specific conditions and challenges each shortlisted market presents, based on the core criteria.

Compared to some previous projects I’ve worked on, where the problem-solving process wasn't clearly defined from the beginning, this structured approach—rooted in solid research and thorough discussion—has significantly improved our efficiency. Without a clearly defined method, frequent changes in direction can reduce clarity, slow progress, and compromise the quality of deliverables. Having a solid research framework has allowed our team to move forward with confidence and focus.

The final takeaway I’d like to reflect on is group work. Our team’s cohesiveness is built on three key pillars: mutual understanding, consistent encouragement, and information symmetry and transparency. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of an all-female team, where we support each other and overcome challenges together. Since we were already friends before forming the team, our existing bond has only grown stronger through collaboration, allowing us to become a truly effective and well-balanced unit. As girls, we are naturally perceptive, often picking up on subtle cues—like when someone becomes quiet—and we’re quick to offer encouragement and create space for everyone’s voice to be heard. We also allocate tasks based on each person’s strengths and make a point of celebrating even the smallest achievements. This positive reinforcement creates a motivating and affirming team culture. 

We’ve learned that asymmetry of information can easily build up over time, causing disengagement and reducing motivation. That’s why we’ve been intentional about establishing team norms and work styles that promote clarity, inclusiveness, and momentum. When scheduling conflicts arise and not everyone can attend a meeting, we maintain seamless communication by updating all progress and decisions in our shared documents. We also rotate responsibilities such as note-taking, leading meetings, and posing questions, which ensures that everyone feels actively involved and responsible for the team’s progress.

These dynamics not only make the group more efficient but are also vital for the overall success of our project.

Looking back on the first half of the SIRI Practicum, I feel incredibly grateful for the depth of learning this experience has offered—from expanding my industry knowledge and strengthening my research skills to building an empowering and collaborative team dynamic. This project is not just about delivering insights to a client; it's also a journey of personal and professional growth. As we move into the second half, I’m excited to dive deeper into our analysis, refine our recommendations, and continue growing with my team. I look forward to seeing how our collective efforts will contribute to the client’s global strategy and our development as future leaders in sustainable investing and energy.