What's an economics major to do?

  • Context: Programs 
  • Thread starter Thread starter philosophking
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Economics Major
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

An economics major aiming for graduate school at prestigious institutions like MIT or Princeton should focus on maintaining a high GPA, currently at 3.7, with a target of 3.8. Achieving strong GRE scores, particularly in mathematics, is essential, as evidenced by a near-perfect practice score. Engaging in independent research is crucial; students should aim to publish multiple papers, particularly in economics, while also seeking mentorship from professors involved in relevant research. Strong letters of recommendation and a compelling statement of purpose are vital components of a successful application.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of GRE preparation strategies
  • Familiarity with academic research methodologies
  • Knowledge of crafting effective statements of purpose
  • Experience in building relationships with faculty for mentorship
NEXT STEPS
  • Research independent research opportunities in economics
  • Prepare for the GRE with a focus on quantitative sections
  • Learn about writing academic papers and publishing research
  • Explore strategies for obtaining strong letters of recommendation
USEFUL FOR

Undergraduate students majoring in Economics or Mathematics, aspiring graduate students targeting top-tier programs, and anyone seeking guidance on academic research and graduate school applications.

philosophking
Messages
175
Reaction score
0
What's an economics major to do? :)

Hey all, I really need some help. I am currently an sophomore at a low-to-middle tier 2 school (I'm going there on full scholarship). I'm double majoring in Economics and Mathematics, and want to go to a good grad school for either subject (preferably economics).

I'm trying to keep my gpa high, but I'm in an honors program here that is pretty difficult (relative to the status of the school), so right now I'm standing at a 3.7. After cores are out of the way, it'll probably jump to a 3.8 (the trend is that I get A's in my major courses and subpar on everything else heh). I took a practice GRE and almost scored a perfect on the math, and a ~650 on verbal.

My question is this: what are the main things I have to do if I have my goals set on MIT, Princeton, etc. for graduate school? Should I start doing independent research, and if so, how many papers would you recommend? What else, besides gpa and GRE scores (also, I'll be taking the Putnam the next two years) are needed?

I know doing math research is difficult at the undergraduate level, and I'm really not sure what I could write papers on in economics, although I'm sure I could find things. Thank you for your help!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Research, recs and "statement of purpose" are crucial. Find a professor who does interesting work who's willing to let you work with him.
 
Thank you very much.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
4K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
6K