For Business Economics major Sheldon Essel, economics quickly proved to be the perfect fit. At first, he was unsure about following his family footsteps, who all work in economics, but he soon realized that understanding economic concepts came naturally to him. The ability to translate real-world experiences into structured models sparked his curiosity in the field.
For Sheldon, one of his most meaningful academic experiences came during a macroeconomics class, where he explored the economic growth of Ghana, his home country. His research focused on external factors contributing to growth, such as remittances, foreign direct investment, and imports. The project was personal for Sheldon, who spent part of his childhood in Ghana and has always been curious about its economy. Through this research, Sheldon not only deepened his knowledge of macroeconomic concepts but also discovered connections between his findings, his own observations, and conversations with his father. Reflecting on the project, he shared, “It all lined up—what my dad said, what I’ve seen, and what I found in my research.” This realization made the project more than an academic exercise—it became a bridge to better understanding his roots and the factors shaping Ghana’s economic future.
The economics program at Wooster has been a transformative experience for Sheldon, providing him with skills and insights that extend far beyond the classroom. He values the department’s emphasis on critical thinking and the opportunities to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios. Sheldon believes that the skills he’s developed in economics, such as analytical thinking and problem-solving, translate seamlessly into fields like finance, which he plans to pursue after graduation. “Economics gives you a mindset that’s useful across many careers, whether it’s finance, environmental economics, or law,” he says. Moreover, Sheldon appreciates the interconnected nature of the economics courses at Wooster. He finds that the concepts taught in one class often build on those from others, creating a cohesive learning experience. The seamless connections between courses enhance understanding and make the program both engaging and practical.
Sheldon encourages incoming economics students at Wooster to approach the subject with an open mind. “Economics is more than supply, demand, and graphs—it’s a model of the real world,” he explains. One of the strategies that has helped him succeed is finding connections between what he learns in class and real-world events. “If you can relate economic theories to things happening around you, it becomes much more meaningful,” he explains. By linking theoretical knowledge to actual events, students can develop a deeper understanding of the subject and its real-world implications. For him, economics is more than numbers and graphs—it’s a way to make sense of the world. By staying curious and finding connections between classwork and reality, students can unlock the full potential of their economics education.