Hello, my name is Daniel. I am a current 1st Year Economics Undergraduate at Pembroke College, Cambridge. I applied to study Economics as I had developed an interest for it during sixth form. The prospect of enjoying the logical rigour of maths and experimental analysis of the economy greatly appealed to me.
The course is composed of 5 different papers: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Quantitative Methods in Economics (Mathematics and Statistics), Politics and Economic History. In a typical week you can expect 10-12 lectures and 2 supervisions. Supervisions in my opinion are the best aspect of the Cambridge learning experience. For Economics they are issued on a fortnightly basis comprising of either problem sheets or essay questions. Within these supervisions you have the opportunity to ask your professors any puzzling questions you have concerning the assignment or the topic in general. They truly provide a tailored experience and additional value to your learning. During the week you can also participate in various clubs and societies, whether this be football or public speaking, there is a society catered for your interests (post lockdown of course).
My interview experience was surprisingly calm. My first interview; a general conversation about Economics was great. It is very important that you understand your A-level content especially Maths and personal statement very well. Be prepared to discuss and speak about topics that you have mentioned in your personal statement. This also holds for the subject interview, although more technical try not to panic when asked unfamiliar questions. I would advise starting off simple and then subsequently building upon this thought with a logical chain of reasoning. Your interviewers want to understand your thought process, approach to questions and overall gauge whether you are “teachable.” Thus, they may intervene during your answer to provide support, question your reasoning, or prompt your answer further.
If you enjoy Maths but would rather apply it as a tool to aid decision making, then Economics is the subject for you. One day you could be working on mathematical problems and the next on political or historical topics/essays. Hence, it provides the best compromise for the student that does not fall subject to the “Math or English student” spectrum (although there is a significant bias for mathematics).
I wish you all the best on your respective journeys.