Beyond the Classroom: Possibilities in Economics
Tuesday, 22 September 2026 at 18:30
Are you curious about where a degree in economics can take you? Whether you are drawn to public policy, the private sector, or academic research, this event will introduce you to the diverse and rewarding career paths economics offers. You will hear from experienced economists who will share their personal journeys, career insights, and reflections on the challenges and opportunities in the field.
Event details
Join us for an inspiring and inclusive panel event where economists from across sectors, public, private, and academia, will share their personal career stories, key lessons learned, and honest reflections on navigating the profession. Through engaging talks and open discussion, you will gain a clearer view of the many directions an economics background can lead. This year, we are especially pleased to welcome University of Exeter economics graduates, who will share their own journey and insights since graduating, making the event particularly relevant to the student community.
This event is especially dedicated to inspiring and encouraging students from underrepresented groups in economics, including women and those from minority backgrounds, to explore the possibilities and build their confidence in pursuing economics as a career. Whether you are just starting out or thinking about your next step, come along to get inspired, ask questions, and connect with a community that supports your journey in economics.
The event is open to all students of the University of Exeter Business School. This event is sponsored by the University of Exeter Business School and the Department of Economics organised in collaboration with the University of Exeter Economics Society.
Event organisers
Dr. Martha Omolo (University of Exeter), Dr. Debbie Du Preez (University of Exeter) and the University of Exeter Economics Society, with support from Dr. Maria Psyllou (Royal Economic Society UK Women in Economics Network and Imperial College London), Dr. Arpita Ghosh (University of Exeter) and University of Exeter Business School Academic Support Administrator team.
Hosts
Dr Lisha Agarwal and University of Exeter Economics Society (Sarah Golwala)
Speaker biographies
- Helena Fornwagner (University of Exeter Business School)
- Senjuti Karmakar (Department for transport)
- Shaun Grimshaw (University of Exeter Business School)
- Grace Lord (BNP Paribas)
- Lisha Agarwal (University of Exeter Business School)
- Sarah Golwala (University of Exeter Economics Society)
- Jingya Zeng (University of Exeter Business School)
Schedule
| 18:30-18:40 | Welcome and Introduction | Helena Fornwagner (University of Exeter) Dontai Chisnall & Lucas Mitchell (University of Exeter Economics Society) |
| 18:50-19:00 | The Opportunity You Don't Know About Yet | Senjuti Karmakar (Department for Transport) |
| 19:00-19:10 | Discovering Economics Late | Shaun Grimshaw (University of Exeter) |
| 19:10-19:20 | The Journey to Investment Banking | Grace Lord (BNP Paribas) |
| 19:20-19:45 | In Conversation: Ask the Panel | Hosted by University of Exeter Economics Society |
| 19:45-19:55 | Summary and Final Remarks | Jingya Zeng (University of Exeter) |
| 20:00-20:15 | Networking Event |
Organiser
University of Exeter Business School - Economics
Location
Henderson Lecture Theatre