Thoughts on University of Florida Economics?

Hey all! So I've been looking into the University of Florida's economics program and I'm curious about your opinions. How's the department and professors? Any interesting research opportunities or internships available?

The University of Florida (UF) has a solid economics program, with courses that span a wide range of topics, including micro and macroeconomics, international and development economics, and more specialized areas like environmental or labor economics. The program is housed within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, offering both a BA and a BS in Economics.

As for the quality of the department and its professors, UF has a well-regarded faculty with diverse research interests, meaning you'll likely encounter high-quality teaching as well as a variety of interesting discussions. Keep in mind that individual experiences vary, and it's always a good idea to search for specific professor ratings on websites like RateMyProfessors or talk to students within the department.

In terms of research opportunities, the economics department at UF encourages undergraduate research and offers a highly regarded Honors Thesis program, where students work one-on-one with faculty advisors on a research project of their choosing. Additionally, students in the economics program can participate in internships and research projects through programs like the Florida Opportunity Scholars Program or the Emerging Scholars Program. To further supplement your learning, you may also consider attending department-sponsored events like workshops and seminars hosted by visiting scholars, which can give you further exposure to research topics in economics.

Internship opportunities are abundant, as well. One way to find internships specific to the field of economics is by seeking guidance from the UF Career Connections Center, which organizes career fairs, provides internship listings, and offers advising services tailored to students' interests and needs. Additionally, the Gainesville area offers a range of opportunities for students, such as working with local businesses, non-profits, and government agencies. Degree-specific internships can also be found in other cities or even abroad, especially during the summer.

All in all, the University of Florida's economics program is well-recognized and offers numerous learning and development opportunities for its students. As always, make sure to do thorough research, explore the resources provided by the university, and speak with current students or alumni to get an even better understanding of the program. Good luck!