Below is a questionnaire which was filled out by one of my IBDP economics students called Evan. Based on his answers, create a student recommendation letter.

What was your favorite or most meaningful project, assignment, or experience in the class (think: IA, Field Trip, ECA…)?

One of my favorite and most meaningful experiences in this class has been the combination of all the components: lectures, group discussions, homework, IA, and talking to my peers and teachers. It may sound unusual, but I genuinely enjoy all aspects of the class because I am deeply interested in this subject and want to pursue it further. The group discussions have allowed me to hear different perspectives and ideas, and the lectures have provided me with a strong foundation of knowledge. The IA was a great opportunity to apply what I had learned and develop my critical thinking skills. Additionally, I have found it valuable to talk to my peers and teachers, as they have provided me with valuable insights and feedback. Overall, this class has been a very meaningful and enjoyable experience for me. Additionally, one of my most meaningful experiences was during my CAS trip to the PwC office in Shanghai. This trip gave me a valuable opportunity to see the professional setting firsthand and opened my eyes to potential career paths that I could pursue in the future. In addition, it allowed me to explore the intersection between my interests in economics and business and how they could be applied in a real-world setting. The visit to PwC was an incredibly insightful and inspiring experience that I will never forget.

What was your favorite unit or module in the class? Why?

One of my favorite units in the class was the finance-related sections of the macro and micro modules, specifically the topics on tax and interventions, and investment. I found these sections to be particularly interesting and engaging, as they allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the practical applications of economic principles. Learning about how governments use taxes and interventions to influence economic outcomes was especially fascinating, as it helped me understand the intricacies of economic policy-making. Additionally, the investment section provided valuable insights into the workings of financial markets and the strategies used by investors to make informed decisions. Overall, these units left a lasting impact on me and further fueled my interest in pursuing a career in this field.

Have you ever applied a theory or concept from the class in real life?

Yes, I have applied a theory or concept from the class in real life. Specifically, in the topic of behavioral economics, I have used the concepts and theories learned in class to make more informed purchasing decisions. By understanding how my emotions and biases can influence my decisions, I am able to make more rational and equitable choices when making purchases. Additionally, I have been able to apply this knowledge to advise my parents on their decision-making processes, which I find extremely rewarding and cool. Overall, this class has helped me see the relevance and importance of economics in our daily lives and
how it can be applied beyond the classroom.

Have you done any extra reading or research in the subject beyond the homework or assignment the teacher gave you?

Yes, I have done a significant amount of extra reading and research in economics beyond the homework and assignments given by the teacher. I have read several books such as “Nudge” and “The Divergence” as well as many news articles and analysis from highly credible sources such as the BBC, Financial Times, Bloomberg Business, and Goldman Sachs outlet reports. I find it fascinating to keep up with the latest economic trends and developments, and I believe that this additional reading has helped me to gain a deeper understanding of the subject and to apply concepts learned in the classroom to real-world situations.

What are the areas not in the syllabus you have explored in your spare time? If not, what would you like to explore?

In my spare time, I have explored areas of philosophy and ethics that are not specifically covered in the syllabus. I find it fascinating to think about the moral implications of economic decisions and how they affect society as a whole. Additionally, I have been reading up on the history of economic systems and the evolution of global trade. These topics are not directly covered in our class, but they provide important context and background for the concepts we learn. In the future, I would like to explore the intersection of economics and technology, as I believe that advancements in artificial intelligence and automation will have a significant impact on the field in the coming years.