Until recently, I was pursuing a specialised honours programme in financial and business economics at York University, Toronto. However, I wanted more mathematics, so I changed my programme to honours in economics with a minor in mathematics, since that would be the perfect combination of the two disciplines.
I was delighted to have this opportunity to change my mind. When I joined the university, I had a five-year plan. Two years into that five-year period, I already changed my major, added another subject to my degree, and have different ambitions. Here’s the scoop: I don’t regret any part of it, at all. My professors and the university have prepared me for the bigger challenges in life.
If you are wondering why I am so much in love with economics, you could hold economist Steven D. Levitt and journalist Stephen J. Dubner accountable. They are the authors of the Freakonomics series. If I were to become famous someday, I would most definitely cite them as my influences. Game Theory is just one of the many reasons why I have such a huge appetite for Economics. I remember the thrill when I first studied the Great Depression.
Of course, crunching numbers is my hobby. Yes, you read that right. Math is therapeutic for me. When people would write the name of their celebrity crush with a heart next to it, I’d do the same but my heart would be next to ‘Calculus’ (I really did put hearts next to Differentiation every time I studied it. I’m not kidding).
Along with my studies, I worked with a major global retail chain for almost a year. Working in such a fast-paced environment while having to ensure the smooth functioning of the store helped me learn a lot. You could call it a micro-economy.
I was also affiliated with student clubs such as the Indian Cultural Association (ICA) and the Badminton Club. I made a lot of new friends though these clubs, and had experiences that I wouldn’t trade for any other. I’ve always been inclined towards music; ICA gave me the perfect platform to share this passion.
Do you love playing sports? There is an array of clubs that you can join, and also the intramurals where you compete against different colleges in the University for a championship. It can be very competitive and fun. If all else fails, you can also start your own club. Oh! Also, if you’re a gym enthusiast, the annual membership at the fabulous gymnasium is $15 (yeah, I couldn’t believe it at first either).
Before I sign off, let me say something about Toronto. I came here after living in India, Australia, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, and Singapore. When I moved from Mumbai to Toronto, I was in awe of the diversity here. I learnt about culture and heritage of more ethnicities than I could ever hope to learn from textbooks. This is why I greatly identify with this city; the people here have the warmth that continuosly assure of your choice of destination.
The writer is pursuing her undergraduate studies at York University, Toronto.
