Tanya — Bachelor of Arts Majoring in Politics/Bachelor of Economics
Why did you choose to study economics?
In Year 11, I had a fantastic economics teacher who taught me that people’s decisions and behaviours could be explained by simple economic theories and philosophies. As I learnt more about economics, specifically microeconomics, I found that, in most cases, economic theory can explain human behaviour using concepts such as price, incentives, opportunity costs and asymmetric information.
What was the best thing about your course?
The best things about my course were the broad range of subjects, the talented lecturers, the great library on campus and the comradeship of my honours colleagues in our final year study. I also enjoyed the broad application of economics in different areas such as health economics, sports economics, game theory, behavioural economics, public and social policy economics and environmental economics.
What was the worst thing about your course?
I would have to say the technical mathematics in fourth-year microeconomics.
Have you found work in your field?
I completed the Victorian public service graduate program in the economic stream. Since completing my graduate year I have worked in the state Department of Treasury and Finance, providing advice to senior management and government on the allocation of public finances, the preparation of the state budget and financial reports, and management of the state’s finances.
What advice would you give to students considering studying economics?
Apply yourself to different areas of economics — if one subject doesn’t work, it doesn’t mean that economics isn’t for you. I would encourage students to consider completing the honours year, as it’s worthwhile both on an academic and personal level. Keep up the extracurricular activities, and completing internships is always favourable
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