In my time at Winthrop, I became familiar with many different economic models, mathematical principles, and tools with which to conduct my analysis. These included models of utility maximization, profit maximization, and cost minimization in microeconomic analysis. In macroeconomic analysis, I engaged with models like the Solow growth model, unemployment models, and those pertaining to financial markets and budgeting. Additionally, I explored theories such as the Environmental Kuznets Curve Theory in applied contexts, alongside models relating to public policy, poverty economics, and developmental economics. I also engaged in constrained optimization techniques, utilizing differentiation and partial differentiation to analyze utility, profit, and cost functions. Further into my minor in math I learned many other useful skills, where techniques like numerical and improper integration were employed. Moreover, I honed skills in solving systems of equations through matrices, finding maximums and minimums, and calculating sequences and series, all of which were indispensable tools in economic analysis.
To translate theoretical concepts into empirical research, I utilized various tools. Stata emerged as a powerful tool for conducting econometric analysis, allowing me to manipulate and analyze large datasets efficiently. Excel proved invaluable for statistical analysis and regression modeling in business contexts. Furthermore, I leveraged mathematical modeling techniques such as regression analysis and systems of equations to develop insights into economic phenomena and test hypotheses.
Main economic courses
· Microeconomic analysis- This is an upper-level undergraduate micro class. In this class we looked at the math behind many microeconomic models. We performed constrained optimization in many areas including utility maximization, profit maximization and cost minimization. WE also learned about different markets, the way assumptions play into economic analysis, and studied some game theory. We completed many problem sets using differentiation and partial differentiation where we practiced our models and knowledge in these areas and were tested accordingly.
· Macroeconomic analysis- This is an upper-level undergraduate macro class. In this class we looked at the math behind many macroeconomic models. The models we used included the Solow growth model, unemployment models, as well as financial markets and banking. We learned much about inflation, business cycles, and short- and long-term economic growth. We completed many problems sets where we practiced our models and knowledge in these areas. We were tested accordingly.
· Applied econometrics- In this class we spent the semester learning how to work with Stata to conduct empirical research in economics. We completed several problem sets designed to replicate different queries we might have working with the software. We also spent much time learning about how to go about finding, choosing, cleaning, and using data. In this class, I completed a primary research term paper where I ran regressions on GDP and CO2 emissions to test the Environmental Kuznets Curve Theory.
· Economics of Governance and Public Policy- In this upper-level class we examined many areas of public policy. The topics we covered included public provision vs private provision, several different monetary and regulatory policies, trade and welfare policies. We had many application problems to make sure we understood how to use the methods and models related to those fields. This class greatly familiarized us with that area of economics.
· Economics of Poverty- In this upper-level econ class we focus on poverty economics. In this class we learned how poverty was measured, what causes poverty, about poverty traps, income distribution, and took a deep look into the demographics of poverty and social protection programs. In this class we conducted secondary research to familiarize ourselves with the models and framework behind this field.
· Developmental Economics- In this upper-level econ class we studied why some countries are rich, and why some countries are poor. Specifically, why some countries developed faster than others. We looked through much of history to learn the theories behind why countries industrialized and then innovated. We completed secondary research in this field to help us learn the framework and models. We also did an in-depth book review on a specific facet of developmental economics.
· Undergraduate Research in Economics- In this independent study course. I spent a semester conducting undergraduate research on how a local paper mill had affected public health in the area. I used Stata to find, clean, and aggregate data so that it was useable, and once I had created a specific research design ran several tests to get results.
· Capstone in Economics- This class was designed to help us take our first step towards professional economics. We had many guest lecturers at different levels of expertise, and spent our time focused on the industry. We analyzed and wrote reports on economics publications, gave presentations on sectors of the job market, and independently conducted primary research on a topic of our choosing. I used Stata to analyze educational outcomes based on the parents’ education.
Supporting Economics
· Calculus I&II- In calculus one I learned how to take limits, differentiate, and integrate. We were tested and completed many homework assignments. We learned about related rates, how to find maximums and minimums, the fundamental theorem of calculus, to find the area under a curve, and applications for these techniques. In calculus II we took integration to its limits, leaning numerical and improper integration, how to calculate sequences and series, how to estimate with Taylor series and power series, and a little bit of differential equations.
· Business Statistics- In these courses we worked with excel to complete many application problems in statistics. We learned how to calculate and run a basic regression, interpret our results, and how to calculate summary statistics.
· Linear Algebra- In this class we learned how to solve systems of equations through matrices. We learned how to put things in RREF and interpret different kinds of results including injective/surjective, how to find a basis, how to find an image and kernel, along with more.
· Mathematical Modeling- In this class we learned how to create models for applications. We learned and worked with many different models including loan and interest models, predator prey relationship models, constrained optimization models, regression models, and more.
· Business Communications and Professional Development- In this upper-level management class, we learned how to carry ourselves in the professional world. This class had a strong focus on written and oral communication, as well as etiquette and attire.
· Business Information Systems- In this upper-level management class, concepts in information systems were presented. We learned technical foundations of information systems, processes for building and managing information systems, and about the systems that support management and the organization.
· Principles of Marketing- In this class, we looked into the fundamental principles and strategies of marketing. The course covers essential topics such as market segmentation, targeting, positioning, consumer behavior, and the marketing mix (product, price, place, promotion).
· Mass Media Law- We covered topics such as First Amendment rights, defamation, privacy, intellectual property, and broadcast regulations. We examined landmark court cases and current legal issues impacting journalism, broadcasting, and digital media.
· Public Relations Principles- In this class we learned about media relations, crisis communication, campaign planning, and stakeholder engagement. We also practiced crafting effective messages, managing organizational reputation, and how to build mutually beneficial relationships with various publics.
· Principles of Advertising- In Principles of Advertising, we studied consumer behavior, creative strategy, media planning, and campaign evaluation. Students learn how to develop compelling advertisements, select appropriate media channels, and measure the effectiveness of advertising efforts.