Jo McGilchrist
BCom (Hons) (Economics)
When she set out to study a Bachelor of Commerce, Jo McGilchrist never thought she'd end up majoring in economics, nor did she think she would do honours. But after studying an array of subjects, she's certain that economics was the right choice.
"I didn't intend to major in economics. Initially I was taking a completely different major but after taking a few papers in economics I found it more interesting. After I got accepted into the honours programme in economics, I dropped my other major."
A bonus of the course is that Jo is not confined to studying only economics related subjects.
"I like the fact that there is still space in my timetable to take subjects just for fun while majoring in economics. Last year I took two Spanish papers."
Originally from Southland, Jo began her studies extramurally from Southern Institute of Technology. When she transferred to study at the School of Business, Jo found that the small classes she had enjoyed in Southland was continued in Dunedin.
"I expected Otago to be very impersonal with big classes and lecturers who didn't care if you passed or failed. Instead I found that the teaching staff at Otago are very friendly and willing to go the extra mile to ensure students succeed."
In the future Jo hopes to pursue a career in policy analysis and is confident her economics honours degree will provide her with an immediate foot in the door.