Ryan Carter
Originally from a small town in Cornwall, Ryan currently works as an economist at the UK National Wealth Fund evaluating large infrastructure investments and considering how they can generate positive social and economic impact. Ryan studied Economics at Queen’s University Belfast and is completing an MSc in Economics through a degree apprenticeship at Queen Mary University of London.
Why did you choose to study economics?
I first became interested in economics during GCSE Human Geography, especially when learning about globalisation and how countries and businesses interact. That quickly led me to ask bigger questions about how economies work more generally. Economics felt like opening a Pandora’s box of questions about the world around us, and it also gives you the tools to actually answer them. From how firms operate to how governments make choices, it explains a lot of everyday decisions in a really engaging and useful way.
How would you describe economics?
I see economics as a practical way of making sense of the world. It is about understanding how people, businesses, and governments make decisions despite a variety of considerations including limitations, trade-offs, and different preferences. Economics gives you the tools to think clearly about complex issues across almost any topic, from big investment decisions and environmental challenges to everyday choices like what you decide to have for lunch!
If you had a time machine and could meet your 16-year-old self, what advice would you give them?
I would tell myself to be more confident asking questions and reaching out to people sooner. From my experience Most people are genuinely happy to share advice and offer a helping hand if you show interest and curiosity. Get in touch with organisations or individuals earlier can really help you understand what opportunities are out there and give you a clearer sense of direction.
What is your favourite part of economics?
My favourite part of economics is seeing ideas and analysis used in the real world. I enjoy seeing firsthand how economics can help shape important decisions, such as where money is invested or how policies are designed. Being able to apply theory and data to real problems, and see the impact of that work, makes the subject feel very rewarding.
Is there anything you would do differently if you had the chance?
I would have explored economics earlier and learned more about how broad the subject really is and what it can teach you. It was not promoted at my school, and I did not know anyone who studied it at the time, so I did not even realise economics was an option. I only discovered the subject later at a different sixth form, which made me realise how many different career paths it could lead to.