How can a BA student get some real world experience in economics?

Question

I'm a few credits away from finishing my economics BA. I've got outstanding grades and I'm considering a Master's program in econ for next year. Right now, I'm interested in getting some practical experience in econ work/research as a volunteer, particularly as either a junior research assistant or possibly as some kind of "junior reviewer" for MA/Ph.D students' theses (I am also a professional writer by trade). I'm not looking for a salary, just a chance to get my feet wet a bit in research before my Masters.

Anyone have any experience with this? Can anyone offer some advice?

Answer 1

Go intern as an assistant for a central bank in some country. I'm sure Zimbabwe could use all the help they can get.

Answer 2

Reading you story, I believe that I would investigate the intern system, if any,  with one of the leading industries in your area; with helping out with  the budget or procurement problems.

Or

Go to a job shop, contract labor, with  your resume' you could get with a company who need temporary help on a specific project. That would be your theses!

Answer 3

hmm I'd contact your economics :) major/department at your school first.  I'm sure they must have some research jobs.  You can also talk to professors to see if they are researching any topics.  Pay attention to whether they are doing field research.  As for non-academic jobs you can try a number of places.  See what financial instiutions are in your areas and look at businesses too.  It'd be great to intern there.  Or you can try interning during this summer- or during the time between the time of graduation and master's program.  I'm sure there are many places you could intern at.  Government would be a good place to apply economic knowledge, but I don't know if you'd be interested in that.  There are many places- businesses, banks, other lending institutions (though that may not be a very secure place to research in now because of how unstable it is currently), government- both officials and organizations (California has nonpartisan Legislative Analyst's Office I don't know if your state-if you're not in CA- has that), and maybe even advocacy organizations you could do economic research for that.  There are citizen groups who do work on economics and propose solutions for good financial actions (by government) or you could intern at a think tank/research area.  I hope my ideas provide you with many choices :D!  And yeah, there's also professors and hmm I saw that you are a professional writer- that's what you wrote on your question..hmm...well if you're interested in writing, you may want to contact different organizations in the media.  Or you may want to try the Economist.

Eh I may be getting ahead of myself here. Sorry, Im not sure if I am because I am getting off topic (maybe..I hope not hehe)...but yeah I did my best and hope I help you.