The first time I took an in-person Economics class, I was in my junior year. I just wanted to take it to fill out the space in my schedule while I wait for my school of Business application to get accepted. I didn’t have any intention in staying in the field permanently, leave alone earning a degree there. On the first day of class, Professor Smirnova encouraged us to sign up for the Practicum so we could train to participate in the College Fed Challenge. It was intriguing but at the same time super intimidating and the fact that I didn’t even plan to study that industry in the future- only added to the pile of excuses I created for myself to not join. Fast forward to a year from that time, I’m taking this class for the second semester in a row and working as hard as I can to catch up and graduate with a major in Economics. 

Taking this class did not only introduce me to a dozen like-minded individuals who challenge me to learn but also attributed to my personal growth. Working together on this project and knowing that my own contributions and efforts are an invaluable part of how well our overall results will turn out, is an indescribable feeling. You are accountable for being knowledgeable about the global topics each class and ready to have insightful discussions whenever the opportunity arises. If we’re unprepared, the fear of a bad grade is eliminated but knowing that you let down your team and possibly set us back in an already limited time, is much worse. Because of the nature of the course the whole experience feels much more professional and realistic. The missed deadlines reflect more than just an F in our gradebook. They reflect our chances on winning the national competition and representing our school against the whole country. It’s such a big pressure and responsibility but at the same time, even greater reward and satisfaction. 

However, the most important thing I learned is that it’s not about the destination but rather the journey. It sounds so cliche but, especially in this situation, it’s so true. Even if our team didn’t go to the next round, the time we’ve spent and the experience we’ve gained through the whole process left nothing but a positive and discerning mark. I can’t talk for everyone but for me personally, this class turned around the trajectory of my career and my future. Starting with the connections I’ve made and the conversations we’ve had to the disagreements and common ideas- all of it greatly impacted my understanding of economics and confidence in voicing my thoughts. I’m a much better student, employee and overall, a better individual. I’m more motivated to learn about global issues because I’m more confident in my abilities to express my opinions and interpretations. I feel a lot more reassured that I can be a part of the bigger change and the reason for that is the possibility to regularly hold these important discussions with other people. It gives you a chance to not only learn different perspectives but see how your own views relate to them. In simple terms, I’m really grateful that a year ago I stepped over my fear and signed up for this Practicum class despite the lack of knowledge about the field. It really teaches you the significance of taking a risk no matter how bad it scares you. 

Nike said it better than anyone. Just do it. And watch how you, your life, and your perception of the world change because of all the opportunities you decide to take.