Student profiles
Bethany Tasker, BSc Economics (on placement) 
"Economics, for me, is a fantastic degree which provides the foundations for a very extensive variety of employment opportunities. It was the applicability of economics in everyday life and situations, as highlighted by authors such as Steven Levitt, who wrote 'Freakonomics', which provided me with the impetus to study this degree at Reading. It is the relevance of the subject that makes it such a diverse and motivating one to study.
"During my time at Reading, I have discovered a particular passion for macroeconomics, and was therefore extremely excited to obtain a placement at the Treasury in the Fiscal Policy team, for one year between my second and third years of studying at Reading.
"After graduation, I would like to obtain a position where I am able to apply the economics I have learnt at University. This perhaps would be as an economic analyst or advisor in a central bank which would enable me to gain an insight into the monetary side of economic policy making."
Sophie Outhwaite, graduate, BA Economics 
"I originally chose Economics as I'd enjoyed the subject at A Level. I was also leaning towards a career in finance so was seeking a balanced degree to demonstrate my abilities in both quantitative and qualitative areas to prospective employers. Economics was the perfect choice - the maths and 'quants' side gave me a good understanding of how complicated analysis is performed as well as honing key numerical skills, whilst the policy-/theory-based modules lent to improve my writing and thought processes - and crucially taught me to question everything (I don't think I've taken a statistic for granted since first year!). After graduating I quickly found a job as an executive assistant to the CEO of a hedge fund based in London. Here the skills I learned in my degree were invaluable; all aspects of my degree gave me a fantastic base on which to build my understanding of investments and how the global economy works. I am now in my second job - a client account manager in a bespoke asset management firm where I am, everyday, involved in high-level decisions about asset allocation and investments. It's brilliant!
"I truly loved doing Economics at Reading. I think the most important thing I got out of it was a genuine interest in the subject itself; specifically the effects of Government policy on both the markets as a whole and also individuals. I am, as Lily Allen says, 'a weapon of massive consumption', and I think it's nice to know why."
Claire Hewings, graduate, BA Economics
'I really enjoyed my time studying at Reading. My course offered me lots of choice between modules, which meant I was able to tailor my degree towards my own interests. The course provided a lot of relevance to the real world, with lecturers encouraging students to apply the theory taught in class to current affairs.
The University as a whole offers a unique opportunity for students, with extra curricular activities to suit everyone, as much help available as students need, and the support to make the most of your time at Reading.'
Guy Huckvale, graduate
'I chose to study Economics and Econometrics at the University of Reading not only because of the growing reputation of the School but also because of the modular system that allows great freedom of choice to students.
My role now with KPMG involves providing clients with commercial advice and support in often pressured situations. I need to be able to efficiently analyse large tracts of raw data, identify key points and then communicate this knowledge to the client. An enjoyable and challenging three years at Reading helped me to develop the knowledge and skills required to progress in my profession.'
Alex Martin, graduate
'Studying Economics at Reading constantly challenges your perceptions of the global economic environment. The School's strength lies in its diversity of module options and its cosmopolitan approach to the subject. Passionate lecturers cultivate student interests, whether they wish to concentrate on the macroeconomics of the housing market, or the issues surrounding the expansion of the European Union.
The University's distinguished reputation, unique campus setting and countless extra-curricular opportunities available made Reading the obvious choice for me.'
Shyama West, graduate
'I really enjoyed studying at Reading. The staff in both Geography and Economics are very approachable and encouraging, and the course itself is made relevant to current social, political and economic issues, particularly in the third year. In addition, there is a wide range of modules to choose from, to suit your own interests.'
Ian Stone, graduate
'I loved studying at Reading for a number of reasons. My course was great because it offered me flexibility all the way through to my final year. I was able to choose to study Economics, Management and Accounting and this has developed me to be a well rounded student. The lecturers were fun and always willing to help with any problems. I also found that the courses find the right balance between lecture hours and self study and liked the exam set-up because the majority of the exams are at the end of the student year. If I had to make the choice of where to study again I would definitely choose Reading.'
Ian Watkins, graduate
'I found my Economics degree at the Reading both varied and interesting, with a good balance between learning economic theory and understanding the real world practical uses of the material. The course is well structured, teaching the basics and then giving students a broad choice of modules in the final year to learn more about the areas they feel are most relevant to them.
The campus based layout of the University gives a great atmosphere; because everything is together in one place you will always see people around making it easy to stay in touch with friends and giving a relaxed feel to life at Reading.'
