School students discover what it takes to become an economist

School students discover what it takes to become an economist

Monday 23 Mar 2026

"Being an economist isn't about being a single thing. A good economist is ready for anything and can absorb anything." Mirko Draca, CAGE Centre Director

Over 70 students from schools across the region discovered that a career in economics is about far more than finance at an interactive workshop run by the CAGE Research Centre and Discover Economics.

The year 12 and 13 students studying economics, geography, history and politics took part in a 'How migration shapes economies' event which looked at the way the movement of people shapes world economies.

Students and teachers stepped outside of the standard economics A level curriculum and engaged in interactive activities and videos on the impacts of different types of migration on individuals and a country.

They also had the opportunity to hear from and question academic staff and current undergraduate students on their pathway to economics and the interdisciplinary nature of the subject.

“The seminar was interesting, especially due to the range of experiences by the speakers.” Student

"Loved the event! A great opportunity for the students" Teacher

About the project

Working with Discover EconomicsLink opens in a new window a Royal Economic Society initiative, we develop resources and a regular interactive event for schools. The material draws on CAGE's network of internationally renowned experts and looks at political history from different angles with a view to inspiring young people into a career in economics.

Our aim is to help teachers, and their students navigate the different ways economics can intersect with a whole range of curriculum areas, broaden horizons and enhance understanding of world economies and modern society.

Over the past two years the partnership has developed two video series on the impact of colonialismLink opens in a new window and political protestLink opens in a new window on global economies – subjects which have appealed to history, geography, politics, business and economics A level students.