Cindy Shen

Most freshmen start out by taking Econ 1 (unless you took AP Micro in high school) to see if they're interested. You'll hear a mixed bag of reviews about Econ 1: people either love it, or they absolutely hate it. That's the point of Econ 1! As an introductory class, it's meant to help you figure out whether or not econ is the right fit for you. Your freshman year is all about exploring your options and learning about what you like, and what you don't. I first arrived on campus thinking I'd be a math major, but Econ 1 changed my mind. It's not an easy class, but I reccomend taking it if you're even remotely interested!

All econ majors are required to take Econ 20, 21, and 22. I have yet to take Econ 20 (which is essentially a course on statistical analysis of economic data), but I've taken 21 and 22 and loved both of them! Econ 21 and 22 are in-depth classes on the two main divisions of economics -- microeconomics and macroeconomics, respectively. Generally, people who've taken both classes will passionately reccomend one over the other. Personally, I liked Econ 21 (Microeconomics) a bit more, but it's all dependent on what your personal preferences! 

In addition to the core classes, econ majors also need to choose two specific tracks that interest them. These tracks include: industrial organization, money and finance, labor, public, development, and international economics. I haven't figured out my second track yet, but I know that one of my concentrations will be in industrial organization (dubbed the '5s track, because all classes in this field end in the number 5). Industrial organization includes classes on game theory, and competition and strategy.

All I have to do is crawl out of bed (a feat in itself) to coordinate schedules.

Sometimes (as in the case of any relationship), we bug each other. Thankfully, our established friendship means it's okay and not awkward to talk about those little things.

Steph and I already knew we got along just fine before rooming together, so I knew I'd always be around good company. Most people fear small roommate squabbles becoming bigger fights, but Steph and I have established a rhythm that works for both of us.

At Dartmouth, you get to meet people from all sorts of backgrounds with different interests and hobbies. As a result, my friends are in an array of different clubs/organizations/activities on campus and a mix of affiliated and unaffiliated people. The addition of Greek Life hasn't changed my friendships at all; we're closer than ever.

I've met a ton of '22s this term! This is Alisya, she's one of my lovely debate babies.

It's an autumn tradition to go to IC4U (Ice Cream Fore-You) and order a baby cone (that's actually giant). Rookie mistake if you order a small ... it's enough ice cream to feed a family.