BA in Economics

Austin Britt, 2024

What was the most impactful class you took in your major? what made it so? The professor? The assignments? What you read or learned?

I believe that Topics in Economic History (ECON 365) was the most impactful class I took in my major. This course combined economics with the study of history, which has always fascinated me, and it gave me a new perspective on how economic forces shape societal change over time. Professor Mark Koyama was instrumental in making the material engaging—he encouraged us to question widely accepted theories and to think critically about economic evidence. For example, we examined contrasting views on why the British Industrial Revolution emerged in Britain and not elsewhere, allowing us to compare different economic frameworks and assess the historical context behind them.  One of the most memorable aspects of the course was Professor Koyama’s focus on connecting theories with real-world data and historical narratives. This approach helped me grasp complex ideas, like how institutional structures and technological advancements interact to influence economic growth. By the end of the course, I had developed the skills to analyze historical events from an economist's perspective, which I put to the test in my final research paper.

My project explored the various factors that led to the British Industrial Revolution and provided a nuanced analysis of why it occurred in Britain specifically. This experience deepened my understanding of how economics can explain pivotal moments in history, making the course a turning point in my academic journey.

What activities were you involved in during your time at Mason that impacted you? A club? Research? Internship? Study abroad? Can you describe that experience a bit?

Throughout my time at George Mason, I took advantage of the opportunity to study Japanese language and culture, which culminated in a summer internship in Tokyo, Japan. I can firmly say that this internship was a highlight of my life.  Since I was a child, I dreamed of visiting Japan and experiencing the culture I’d admired from afar through video games, anime, and restaurants. Whether getting late night food with my fellow George Mason housemates, or diligently working with other interns and my supervisor Shotaro at COPILOT Inc., the memories of this trip will stay with me for as long as I live.  

While in Tokyo, I reached out to a member of the economics faculty, Professor Peter Leeson, who is researching the economics of historical Japan. It was incredibly exciting that he accepted my offer to serve as a research assistant and I identified a way to combine my passions of history and economics with my interest in Japanese culture, while also strengthening my research skills.  Because of George Mason, I have participated in classes, an internship, and research that allowed for exploration within the field of economics in hands-on, interesting ways. I have no doubt that these experiences, knowledge, and memories will stick with me, forging my path for the future.

What is your most memorable moment at Mason inside or outside of the classroom? Can you describe it?

My most memorable moment at George Mason was performing in the Japanese Student Association’s play at the annual Polyglot performance. Through this experience, I met other students with a shared interest in Japanese culture. During months of practice leading up to our theatrical debut, the cast grew closer as friends and put together a really special performance of the folktale Momotaro.

Additionally, I was able to reunite with one of my castmates from the play who had been studying at George Mason as an international student in Tokyo during my internship there. Experiences like these are why I would recommend students to step outside of their comfort zones and explore what the university has to offer. You never know the experiences you can have and the friends you can make by taking bold steps.

As your reflecting on your time at George Mason, what is one piece of advice you would give a student who is just starting off on their Mason journey? 

Be bold and follow your interests. Take classes that seem interesting to you and when you want to know more reach out to those professors.

What is your next step after graduation? What are your future plans?

After graduation I hope to find work employing the skills imparted to me at George Mason. I'm currently keeping my options open and excited to see where this journey takes me.