Graduating Senior Spotlight: Q&A with Jacob Abramson

Did you participate in any student organizations, Learning Abroad programs, research or internship opportunities, or other related experiences? How have you learned from them?

I interned for D.C. United, a MLS soccer club, during spring semester of my sophomore year. After that, I interned at Allianz Life here in Minneapolis for two summers in a row! I learned so much during the course of my internships, but a few things stand out most to me. 

I learned how to work with individuals who have different perspectives and a different background than me. Additionally, I learned how to take constructive feedback and use it to enhance my work. Finally, I gained a plethora of experiences in multiple roles that have better prepared me to enter the business world. 

What is your favorite class that you took in CLA? Is there a professor that you particularly enjoyed working with? How did they prepare you for the next phase of your life?

My favorite class in CLA was ECON 4341 - Economics of Poverty and Income Inequality. This was in large part due to the professor, Dr. Fahima Aziz, and the amazing job she did teaching the course. Dr. Aziz did an incredible job of opening our eyes to the scale of income inequality around the world and encouraged us to always look for solutions to these problems. I have never learned more in a class than I did in hers!

How would you describe your time in your major?

My major was difficult, yet very rewarding. Before coming to the U, I had no idea what to expect in an economics major, as I had only taken a few courses on this subject in high school. I had to learn how to solve problems in a variety of mathematical and critical-thinking ways. I conducted multiple major research papers that were backed by empirical evidence and literature and I was challenged and pushed (in a positive way) by my instructors. The lessons learned during my time as an economics major will help me succeed throughout my professional career and beyond. 

If you could go back and give your first-year self one piece of advice, what would it be?

I would tell myself that everything will work out! It may not happen the way you want it to or the way you may expect, but things will always work out for you the way that they are supposed to. I spent much of my time throughout college worrying about little (and big) things, but, over time, I have gained a sense of confidence and a belief that everything happens for a reason and that things will unfold the way they are supposed to. 

What is your favorite study spot on campus?

In the fall or late spring, I love studying outside Northrop. 

Is there an app you hate but use anyways?

TikTok. 

What's next for you? What are your post-graduation plans?

I am moving to Florida, and will be an account manager at Gartner!