"What Can I Do With a Major in Economics?"
The "What Can I Do With a Major in Economics?" discussion took place on April 18th, 2001 in the HAB. Below is a summary of the four panelists and highlights of the important questions brought up.
The Four Female Panelists:
- Rachel Hillman: Graduated from CSB in 1999, and has a Masters in Economics. Is a State Research Analyst for the Department of Economic Security- constructing and managing statistical databases
- Lynn Schaffler: Received an MBA at Carlson School of Finance. Financial analyst, sales rep., health care consultant
- Mara Mohs: Graduated from CSB in 1999, is beginning MBA at Carlson, and employed at General Mills Customer Service Center- order products for grocery companies
- Monica Millbert: Graduated from CSB in 2000, and works at Target Headquarters in Minneapolis, MN- merchandizing, order products for buyers, and analyzes trends in sales
Questions and Answers:
Why did you choose to be an Economics major?
- analytical and quantitative
- broad job opportunities
- recruiters will look for problem solving and analytical skills
What is the value of an MBA?
- more opportunities to move up
- firms will pay to send people to school
What is it like being a woman in Economics?
- more opportunities for women today
- women with a quantitative major are one step ahead
What minors fit well with an Economics major?
- minors should reflect your true interest
- tells the company how well rounded you are
Does GPA make a difference?
- it might get you into an interview, but other skills are definitely more important
- the interview is key
- make connections with alumni—they may be able to get you passed the standard screening
What would you do over in college?
- study abroad
- taken more math classes
- take the fun classes too—this is your only chance
- internships and networking
- learn more languages (Eastern langs. are in demand)
What challenges do you face at your job?
- being held accountable
- staying focused on your interested when you get bogged down with the little things
What are some possible careers?
- the middle man between the technology (engineers) and the people (business decision makers)
- insurance and banking
- you can make your career whatever you want it to be . . . have fun with it!