Economics
Gracey Jo Gonzalez '22
Why did you decide to study economics?
I came into Whitworth initially as a finance and English student. I'm incredibly passionate about people and I really enjoy numbers, data and writing, so I thought pursuing these two fields would combine those well. In the spring semester of my first year, I took Principles of Microeconomics with Robin Henager, and that changed everything for me. Robin, who is also my advisor, was able to show that with economics alone, I could work with people and understand what motivates them to make many of their financial decisions. Economics is a social science that seeks to understand how individuals and businesses make choices about allocating their resources. In many ways, it feels like the psychology of the business world, which I've really enjoyed.
What are some of your favorite classes so far?
Principles of Microeconomics was such a pivotal class for me, so for that reason it will always be one of my very favorites. Just this past fall semester though, I took Econometrics (also with Robin Henager), and that class was incredibly fascinating and it pushed me in so many ways. This class allowed us to use data and numbers to describe economic systems and find correlations between things that pertain to the human condition and economic models and systems. It was more data application than I was used to, but I loved being able to use and apply new skills that we learned every week in class.
Tell us about a unique experience or project you've worked on for your major.
The most unique project I've worked on was during my Econometrics class. Throughout the semester, my group and I worked to try to understand the relationship between GDP and suicide rates throughout the United States for the years 2014-2018. Though it's a heavy topic, we wanted to see what the impact of economic and financial variables had on something so personal, like suicide, though we knew they would never be able to explain the whole picture or problem. Interestingly enough, many of our assumptions were refuted by data. This project allowed us to really go deep in data application and understand such personal matters through an economic lens. Knowing that this kind of research is possible makes economics as a discipline that much more applicable and valuable to know and understand.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in economics?
Economics is such a versatile field of study, because not only does it prompt us to look at economic and financial variables closely, but it also allows us to understand people and businesses as a whole, and what their financial inclinations are and why. Business as a whole can feel kind of daunting, but knowing that economics is a social science has made it more enjoyable for me to grasp and easier for me to relate to. It never hurts to understand a bit more about the complicated nature of our economy and how individuals and businesses allocate their resources! Plus, our own university president, Beck Taylor, was a professor of economics and even taught one class for my Econometrics course, so that's a huge bonus!
What's your dream job?
I have loved and wanted to do so many different things in my life. I find that my dream job often changes as I grow and experience new things. As a 21-year-old, this can feel both liberating and frustrating, because I'd love the reassurance that a sure-fire career could give me, but I am grateful that the world feels wide open. Right now, I've got my sights set on working in the nonprofit world, because I'd like to be able to combine my passion for people with my love of economics, and it's the kind of work that makes my heart start beating a bit quicker, and I think it would be so fulfilling and rewarding.
Who has been an important connection for you at Whitworth, and why?
Like so many others might say as well, I genuinely have so many important connections and relationships that I've made here at Whitworth. As a student, I think of my advisor and professor, Robin Henager, and all the times she's answered my many, many questions so gracefully and patiently and has pushed and motivated me in the best possible ways. She has fostered my love for economics and made me feel seen in the classroom. I think of Addie Grow in the School of Business as well, and how thankful I am for her investment in my future and willingness to help me in my career, while also just being one of the most amazing ladies ever. As an assistant area coordinator for residence life on campus, I think of my awesome supervisor, Phillip Allevato, who has for the past two years encouraged my growth as an individual and has created some of the most memorable, fun spaces for me in my experience as a college student. My community of people here at Whitworth will forever be my favorite part of my college experience, and they've undoubtedly made all of the hardships that come with college and life in my early 20s worth it.
Why did you choose to attend Whitworth?
I had my sights set on a multitude of small, Christian colleges, because I knew I'd thrive in spaces where I could get to know professors better and where I'd feel I had the most community. Honestly, it was my mom's push for me to come here that solidified it. There were so many big decisions I had to make in my life at the time, and my mom's steady affirmation that she could just picture me at Whitworth so clearly is what made me feel fully comfortable, and excited, to commit to coming here. I'm so beyond glad I did!
How would you describe Whitworth?
Whitworth is a bustling community full of individuals that are eager to grow, learn more about themselves and the world around them, and step into independence in a place that works to foster these important experiences.
Ibiye Tam-George '22
Why did you decide to study economics?
I chose to study economics because I wanted to understand people, businesses, markets and government better. I was curious to understand how scarce resources are distributed/managed.
What are some of your favorite classes so far?
My favorite classes so far have been Principles of Macroeconomics and Principles of Microeconomics. I enjoyed these courses because professors thoroughly explained every concept and terminology with relatable examples that have made studying economics more interesting.
Tell us about a unique experience or project you've worked on for your major.
In my junior year fall semester, I took a class called International Business. This class had a project for which my group conducted research on a U.S. company of our choice and created a strategy to introduce this company to two other countries. This project particularly stuck with me because I learned about different factors to consider (for example, taxes, the income of the target market, culture, etc.) when introducing a new business. My group got the opportunity to speak with top personnel in leading companies from different countries and we visited some of these companies.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about majoring in economics?
Studying economics at Whitworth University is a promising journey. There are many resources available on campus that aid a better learning process. Professors are always committed to your growth and are available to help throughout your stay at the university.
Who has been an important connection for you at Whitworth, and why?
My advisor has been a major connection for me at Whitworth. Being in my first year and trying to figure out what classes to take, what clubs to join, and how to navigate my college experience was overwhelming at first. However, Whitworth assigned an advisor to me upon my entry and that made everything easier because she was always willing to help me, answer my questions, and suggest what she thought to be best for me.
How would you describe Whitworth?
Whitworth is a family committed to helping you become the best version of yourself. The community is welcoming, and as an international student, I have found a home in Whitworth.