Economics Without Limits: Exploring Your Potential

Description

On 23 September 2025, the University of Exeter welcomed students and leading economists for “Economics Without Limits: Exploring Your Potential Inspirational Talks for Future Economists ”, an insightful event aimed at inspiring the next generation of economists. Held at the University of Exeter Business School, the event brought together accomplished professionals from the public, private, and academic sectors to share their personal experiences and career advice with aspiring students.

The event was hosted by Mahreen Mahmud, Senior Lecturer in Economics and began with welcomes from Loukas Balafoutas, Head of the Economics Department, Will Dempsey, President of the University of Exeter Economics Society, and Helena Fornwagner, representing the Royal Economic Society UK Women in Economics Network.

Keynote speakers included Morgaine Conway-Grim from Hawks & Doves, who highlighted the importance of learning the language of finance as a vital skill for building careers in financial markets; Koyesha Mukherjee from the UK Government’s Department for Business and Trade, who spoke about the power of voice and values rather than position in driving purposeful global change, and about viewing leadership as offering a perspective that matters, particularly in policy making institutions; and Samar Al-Haddad from Ernst & Young LLP, who emphasised the importance of being self-driven, self-determined, and confident in finding a seat at the corporate table.

Xiaohui Zhang of the University of Exeter discussed opportunities in academia, offering a compelling view of the diverse paths available to economics graduates across continents.

All keynote speakers highlighted the importance of getting out of the comfort zone, developing global skills and staying open-minded to different career opportunities as economists, noting that the journey to a fulfilling career rarely follows a straight path.

A lively panel discussion hosted by Amelia Knollys, Vice President of the University of Exeter Economics Society, and Jasmine Bellamy, Vice President of Academics and Careers of the University of Exeter Economics Society, further delved into the unique experiences and opportunities, especially for women, in economics. During the panel discussion, it became clear that being audacious and staying curious are vital, and that beyond traditional economics skills such as working with data or theoretical models, soft skills like the ability to tell a story, networking, collaboration, teamwork, and adaptability to diverse environments are even more critical for long-term career success in the age of AI.

The event’s concluding remarks delivered by Arpita Ghosh, Lecturer in Economics, pointed out that there is no set formula for success. Curiosity, patience, diligence, courage, making the most of experiences, and stepping out of one’s comfort zone are essential for building a successful career.

The event placed a strong emphasis on addressing gender-related challenges in the field, with speakers highlighting the importance of voice, self-confidence, learning from mistakes, diversity, and inclusion in overcoming these challenges. Students left feeling empowered and inspired by the wealth of knowledge shared and the supportive environment fostered by the event. The evening concluded with networking over soft drinks and refreshments, allowing attendees to connect with speakers and peers.

This successful event was sponsored by the University of Exeter Business School, the Department of Economics and the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economics Wellbeing, Inclusion and Culture Committee at the University of Exeter, and organised in collaboration with the Royal Economic Society UK Women in Economics Network and the University of Exeter Economics Society. This event is part of a broader initiative by the University of Exeter Business School and the Economics Department, aimed at fostering career development, with a special focus on supporting women in economics and promoting diversity within the field.