Economics

The Federal Reserve Challenge

Students in our Fed Challenge Course compete against schools across the country in the national College Fed Challenge, which requires teams to analyze real-world economic conditions and recommend a course for monetary policy. In 2020, our team placed second out of 85 colleges and universities and was the only liberal arts school to compete in the finals. 

As a member of the Fed Challenge team, you’ll draw on your critical thinking abilities and presentation skills as you collaborate with team members on creative solutions to complex economic challenges. You’ll gain practical insights from your teacher and coach, Charles A. Dana Professor of Economics Cynthia Bansak, a former economist at the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. You’ll also develop strong relationships with alumni who invest their time and expertise in helping you prepare. They’re often on-call to answer questions and even invite students to their offices in New York City to strategize. 

Between alumni mentorship and our comprehensive coursework, St. Lawrence’s Fed Challenge team possesses a unique competitive advantage.

Learn About The Fed Challenge

Honors Projects

Work closely with a faculty mentor as you explore a topic or question that ignites your curiosity. Past projects have explored the potential of a carbohydrate tax to promote long-term health improvements, the debt crisis in Greece, and the spread of misinformation in the information age. 

Crown Royal Investment Club

Manage a real portfolio and compete in the Adirondack Cup against colleges and universities from across New York and New England. At the end of six months, the portfolio with the best return wins. 

Economics Seminar Series

Learn from leading economists, hailing from colleges and universities across the country and globe, studying some of today’s most pressing issues and topics—like renewable energy policy, immigration, and gender equity in the workforce.

Research Assistant Opportunities

Collaborate with faculty mentors, learn more about the research process from experts in their field, and contribute to work that will likely end up getting published. 

Explore Research 

Internships

Learn by doing in a real-world environment. Our majors intern with a wide range of organizations, including: 

• World Bank
• eBay
• Cambridge Associates
• Northwestern Mutual
• ACG Analytics
• Morgan Stanley

Learn More About Internships

SLU Connect Trips

Spend part of your winter break connecting with alumni where they live and work, and get a sense of how economics majors like you are making an impact across the country—from New York City to Washington D.C. to San Francisco. 

Explore Our Signature Career Programs

Study Abroad

Choose from more than 30 semester-long programs offered in more than 20 international locations, including Spain, Vienna, China, and Thailand. 

Should you choose to major in international economics by pairing economics with a language (Spanish, French, German, or multi-language), you can use your study abroad experience to enhance your understanding of finance, banking, and monetary policy beyond the U.S. 

The London Program

Immerse yourself in this vibrant global city—the hub of international banking and trading—while studying its history and current events. Conclude your semester with a month-long work-study in any number of possible workplaces, from local government offices to international trade and investment agencies.

Off-Campus Study in the U.S. 

Other U.S.-based off-campus study programs include a Liberal Arts in New York City experience, which includes an internship with a Manhattan-based business or nonprofit.

Explore Our Programs

Connect with Community

Among the 150+ clubs and organizations at St. Lawrence, you’ll find many that involve economics, entrepreneurship, and fiscal policy, including: 

• Crown Royalty Investment Club 

• Thelomathesian Society
• Club Golf
• The Entrepreneurship Club
• SLU Democrats
• Model U.N.
• Women in Business
• SLU Republicans
• Model O.A.S.
• PLEN Chapter

Learn More About Student Life

Alumni Network

There is no shortage of experts in the business and finance world who also identify as Laurentians. Our alumni network is the second-most influential source for recent graduate employment (only behind internships).  They are eager to answer your questions and help you understand just how far your degree can take you.

Explore the Power of our Alumni Network

Outcomes

Our alumni make an impact as they take the lead on money management while lending their knowledge to keep St. Lawrence competitive in the higher ed landscape.  After graduation, Laurentians go on to make an impact on companies and communities around the world. 

Learn About Success After St. Lawrence