The theory and practice of economics.

A thorough understanding of economic principles helps our students analyze economic trends and the government's responses to them. Economic majors have the opportunity to develop good analytical and problem-solving skills, which are an integral part of a liberal arts education. By exploring economic theories that help explain human behavior, Hollins students learn to develop their own arguments and to evaluate their own values regarding issues discussed in class.

While at Hollins, students learn to:

• Understand how the global economy works
• Interpret the significance of national and international economic events
• Collect and interpret statistical data
• Evaluate the effects of monetary and fiscal policies
• Examine the effects of socioeconomic trends
• Examine the effects of gender, race, and class on economic opportunities
• Examine the effects of growth on the ecology and natural environment

Hollins students reinforce what they learn about the techniques and methods of modern financial enterprises through internships during the January Short Term.

Economics majors gain valuable research experience in writing a senior thesis. Many employers and graduate schools consider the successful completion of a senior thesis a symbol of high academic achievement.

Why major in economics?

From investment banking to international finance, from doing market research to being the CEO of their own companies, Hollins economics majors have achieved success in a variety of professions. The strength of the Hollins economics program is demonstrated by the fact that so many of our graduates go on to high-level careers in management and finance and are accepted into the business school, law school, or other graduate schools of their choice. Our graduates say the combination of a strong liberal arts education and a comprehensive understanding of economics, business-related areas, quantitative reasoning skills, and research methodology gives them both the knowledge and the skills needed to succeed in a competitive job market. Especially helpful to many of our majors was the experience they gained in their internships and the extensive network of Hollins alumnae willing to help with practical advice and connections to businesses and financial institutions nationwide.

Test the career waters with hands-on internships

During the January Short Term, students seek out internships in a variety of cities and professions. Most say this on-the-job training provides invaluable insights into the working world — and sometimes an entree to their first job after graduation.

Some recent internships include:

• LaBranche & Company, New York Stock Exchange specialist firm
• Saudi Aramco, Saudi Arabia
• Turner Broadcasting, Atlanta
• Mobile Carnival Association, Alabama
• Bank of Boston, Brazil
• Merrill Lynch & Co., Roanoke
• Saatchi & Saatchi, New York
• Wheat First Securities
• International Monetary Fund
• The White House
• U.S. Congress
• Costa Rica Chamber of Commerce