How would you describe Smith's economics program?

jyber209
Tue, 09 Feb 2010 08:22:44 +0000

My D, an '06 Smith grad, was an econ major. The choice of major was somewhat serendipitous – she had expected to major in government or perhaps sociology or anthropology. But her first year she took an intro econ class and one day in the gym, ran into the prof, who, while chatting with her, said, “You seem to have a talent for the subject. Would you consider economics as a major?” D figured why not give it a second course, and did end up taking that route. That story, to me, exemplifies the interactions and support that can make such a difference at Smith.

A couple of years after graduation, while employed at an economics consulting firm, she suggested doing some recruiting at Smith and, through the CDO, she screened resumes of the graduating econ majors. She returned to Smith to interview, and recommended an applicant, who then was invited for further interviews, and snared the job. D was thrilled to have another Smithie in her heavily male work environment, and they subsequently participated together in the area’s Smith book group.

D is now in grad school studying applied economics.

Re differential equations mentioned above, D never took it, but her younger brother, currently a sophomore engineering major for whom it was the last required math class, has offered to teach it to her. (I had told him that the test of mastery of a subject is if you can teach it. Teaching it to his sister will be the ultimate test. ;))