My advice on how to find your path in Math & Economics

I have long been fascinated by mathematics. There is an undeniable elegance in how numbers and graphs explain our world. My journey began with math competitions where I routinely bombarded judges with questions, just as I do my teachers. These competitions became stepping stones in my education, allowing me to gain incomparable academic knowledge.

I enjoy using mathematics for practical applications, namely economics. For me, economics became a mathematical way to explain the world at large. I became passionate about the subject as I observed economic systems evolve. This passion led me to explore behavioral economics and conduct research on stock market crashes and their macroeconomic impact.

Perhaps you find yourself similarly drawn to these fields. Mathematics competitions offer an unparalleled experience to advance your education while economics provides a framework to understand societal structures. These subjects complement each other remarkably well. The knowledge gained from both creates opportunities for more intricate and impactful research.

I have compiled a list of notable competitions below. These are crucial stepping stones which would allow you to eventually leave your mark upon this world and the field of economics. A clear line must be drawn between merely participating and truly engaging with the material. These competitions are not passing trends but rather foundations for future academic pursuits.

American Mathematics Competitions – Mathematical Association of America
Berkeley Math Tournament
A UC Berkeley student-led organization that aims to spread mathematics and the spirit of mathematical competition throughout the Bay Area by presenting students with interesting, original, hand-crafted problems.
High School Fed Challenge
The High School Fed Challenge is an academic competition where teams of students act as future economists. Registration for 2022-2023 is now open.
AlgoEd | MIT Entrepreneurship Club Competition
Priority Deadline: Dec 15, 2024; Regular Deadline: Jan 30, 2025; Late Deadline: Feb 14, 2025
Fall Essay Contest (HIEEC) | HUEA

Other notable competitions for high scholers

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