BA in Economics

Maxwell Laraia, 2025

What was the most impactful class you took in your major?  

The most impactful class I took in my major was Economic Philosophy with Professor Daniel Klein. I enjoyed getting to learn the ideas of economists like Adam Smith, Thomas Schelling, and F.A. Hayek, and the feedback I got from Professor Klein dramatically improved my writing. 

What activities were you involved in during your time at Mason that impacted you?  

While at George Mason, I was the Vice President of the George Mason Economics Society, played the viola in George Mason’s orchestras, and studied abroad at Oxford University. 

What is your most memorable moment at George Mason inside or outside of the classroom?  

While at George Mason, I was the Vice President of the George Mason Economics Society, played the viola in GMU's orchestras, and studied abroad at Oxford University. Expanding on my experience at Oxford, it was really cool to get to study at one of the world’s oldest universities, and I enjoyed getting to do my work in the Radcliffe Camera! 

As you are 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 George Mason journey? 

Just do things. Be involved as much as you can and doors will open along the way! 

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

Eventually, I want to pursue a PhD in economics and then a career in economic research!