We study the wage-change distributions in union contractsreached in Canada between 1976-1999. We use non-parametric tests to check for nominal wage rigidity and find that it is present during low inflation periods.

We explore the forces that shape the development of aspirations and the achievement of grades during high school and the role that these aspirations, grades, and other variables play in educational outcomes such as going to university and graduating. We find that parental expectations and peer...