Develop Written and Verbal Presentation Skills
Professional economists have to be able to communicate with students in the classroom, to clients, and to the general public. While these skills are essential for success on the job market, time is scarce during the job-market year, so it is good idea to start working on these skills early.
The Economics 501 seminar and duties as a teaching assistant provide opportunities for students to develop their skills. In addition, Northwestern University offers several resources for developing writing and presentation skills.
Accent Reduction Training
The Economics Department offers a subsidy for accent reduction training at the School of Communication. This can be particularly helpful for students considering ultimate employment in business schools, teaching colleges, or the private sector. If you have an accent that might lower your chances for such jobs (this will be true for many non-native speakers), you should consider signing up. The program consists of an initial evaluation and, if necessary, additional sessions with a coach. Learn about the program.
The university also offers a free accent reduction training software that some students have found useful.
Presentation Skills
The Graduate School (TGS) offers a free presentation skills course entitled “Ready, Set, Go” every summer. Find course information.
Additional courses and resources for presentation training offered by the graduate school can be found at The Graduate School's website.
Professor Jesse Schapiro of Brown University has produced advice on how to make effective presentations.
Writing Skills
There are tutors available at University Writing Place and Graduate Writing Place to help with writing your papers. The service is free. Information can be found at the Writing Place.
We suggest consulting a writing tutor for the first paper you write, such as your Economic History or 501 paper, rather than waiting for your fourth-year paper or job-market paper. It is a good idea to establish strong writing habits early on. The Writing Place also offers workshops throughout the year.