The Mixtape with Scott [Rerun]: Mohammad Akbarpour, Microeconomic Theory, Stanford
Jun 17, 2025
Mohammad Akbarpour, an economic theorist at Stanford University, shares his fascinating journey from Tehran to academia. He reflects on his early life in Iran, the competitive educational landscape, and the cultural dynamics of pistachio farming. The conversation touches on his transition from electrical engineering to economics and how mentorship shaped his career. Akbarpour also explores the unique kidney market in Iran and the interplay between economics and computer science, offering fresh insights into social networks and disease dynamics.
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Akbarpour's Tehran Childhood
- Mohammad Akbarpour grew up partly in Tehran, Iran's large capital with diverse socio-economic areas. - He lived mainly in central Tehran, a middle-class area rich in historical significance.
National Contest for Gifted School
- Mohammad joined a national contest to enter Iran's top public school for gifted students. - This institution selects top students in each city and offers high-quality education with flexible tuition.
Surprise National Exam Success
- Mohammad ranked 18th out of 480,000 on Iran's university entrance exam, surprising many including his former principal. - Despite modest rankings in school, he excelled nationally, regaining confidence in his academic abilities.