Applied Economics

Tamma Carleton is studying in Chile this semester. “Experiencing the culture and taking classes in globalization and economic history at Universidad Católica de Valparaíso are giving me a firsthand look at how the theories behind economic development play out for the people here,” she says in an e-mail. Through conversations with locals from both sides of the political spectrum, she adds, “I have learned how important it is to keep in mind the benefits of a somewhat flawed economic system while working on reforming the problematic aspects.”

Originally, says Tamma, “I never thought I’d end up in economics.” But in her first class she realized, “This is how I think.”

Now majoring in economics with an international focus, she loves where her studies are leading. Her economics training on campus and in Chile, plus a number of Spanish classes, are laying the groundwork for a potential future in economic development in South America. Once there, Tamma hopes to “take all these tools and apply them to the world.”