An undergraduate degree takes years to complete, but eventually, convocation comes for everyone. And with the approach of graduation, comes the next big life transition: The full-time job search.
There’s no denying the job search is a daunting task. Mingyang (Caitlin) Zhang decided to deal with its uncertainty by seeking advice. And then sharing that advice with other students.
The Trinity College student was inspired to start The Econ Job Search Podcast with Caitlin Zhang after acting as an economics ambassador during Program Exploration Days, a program created by the Faculty of Arts and Sciences to help students and potential students consider their options. Caitlin will convocate this spring with a double major in Economics and Mathematics.
“Students I spoke to on Program Exploration Day asked what graduates with an economics degree typically do,” Caitlin remembered. “I was unsure of the best answer to this question, so I wanted to explore the topic further by connecting with our alumni and understanding their perspectives on their undergraduate studies and career paths.”
The first episode of the podcast features Caitlin’s interview with class of 2009 economics alumnus Aaron Prakash. Prakash, now a commercial account executive with Salesforce in Sydney, Australia, shared his own experience featuring the need for flexibility and resilience in the search for that first job.
The Department of Economics spoke with Caitlin about her motivation in creating the podcast.
Department of Economics (DOE): How does it feel to be starting out on your job search right now?
Caitlin Zhang (CZ): In general, I have a very uncertain mindset. I believe I am a good fit based on the job descriptions, but at the same time, I haven’t received any responses from a lot of my applications. This has affected my confidence, and I constantly need to remind myself to keep exploring different opportunities and to not give up.
DOE: What do you think is the most important piece of advice you have learned so far?
CZ: Be yourself and have faith in your abilities. Even though the market is tough, you should still believe in yourself, as others — both at the entry level and with experience — are facing similar challenges.
DOE: What do you hope other students will gain from your podcast?
CZ: My interviews focus on upcoming graduates and those interested in pursuing economics. Through discussions with alumni, the audience will gain a general understanding of how studying economics influences daily life and shapes one’s way of thinking. Additionally, the interview provides valuable advice on navigating early career paths.
DOE: The leadership and initiative you’ve taken in starting the podcast is admirable. How did you convince yourself to take the risk and try this?
CZ: I don’t see this as a risk! Instead, I find it very exciting. The podcast gives me the opportunity to share my experiences and, sometimes, align my story with those of the alumni. The conversation flows naturally since I share a similar curiosity, and the alumni have been incredibly helpful in guiding me toward finding my own answers.
View episode 2 of the Econ Job Search Podcast with Caitlin Zhang.
Return to the Department of Economics website.
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