Aniela Pietrasz '10

Economics BS/Math BS
Hometown: Hampstead, NH

Why did you choose the Whittemore School?

I knew that I wanted to attend a mid-size research university for my undergraduate studies. I also wanted to stay in-state, so as not to incur the burden of out-of-state tuition costs. I enrolled as an Economics major and initially dual majored in Art History, but I have since settled on a second major in Math. It has been liberating to attend a university that offers me the opportunity to explore and experiment within so many diverse subjects. When I first enrolled, I didn't realize the breadth of knowledge I would be exposed to as a student. I have been able to take many detours along my educational journey because of the variety of programs readily available. I appreciate my choice to come to UNH.

How did growing up where you did influence your decision to enroll at the Whittemore School?

Being closer to home was a determining factor. I was eager to learn and wanted to pursue any subject I became curious about. As an in-state-resident, lower tuition costs allowed me to explore my way through a myriad of classes. My mom encouraged me to take an economics course my second semester here. I found that I really enjoyed the way economics can have a humanistic approach to the way we analyze our world. I also had an interesting opportunity to TA an introductory microeconomics course. The opportunity to be a teaching assistant as an undergraduate student might not have been possible at another school.

How are your experiences at WSBE meeting your expectations?

I made a pivotal decision this year and am now committed to dual majors in economics and math. I now understand that contemporary economics is math based.  What I found I liked most about the economics major though, is that it allows an individual's decisions to be rationally analyzed and even quantitatively assessed. The Economics BS degree is more professionally focused. It requires more quantitative and data analysis, which complements my Math BS degree coursework.

Professors here in WSBE are very approachable. I'm given a lot of independence in college, which can be unnerving at first. But through all my interactions with very supportive teachers, I have learned that my decisions have direct consequences on my future educational and career possibilities. I am now considering graduate work and possibly a PhD in Economics later down the road.

Have you received any financial assistance, and how did it help advance your education?

I received a Presidential Scholarship my freshman year and have maintained it all through my undergraduate program. This scholarship is merit-based and provides an invitation to participate in UNH's highly regarded Honors Program. Through this program, I am involved in the Honors Student Advisory Board and am also a member of the Inquiry student editorial board.

Are there ways you see that a WSBE education is particularly important in the region you grew up?

The Whittemore School is a highly respected and reputable business school. It is one of those "good surprises" to discover the renown that WSBE holds in the local community, the State of New Hampshire, and New England in general.

Finally, how do you see your time at WSBE helping you in your career?

I received a correspondence from Professor England that first prompted me to consider work in Economics. I also enjoyed the opportunity to be a teaching assistant for an Economics course under the guidance of Professor Ju-Chin Huang. It increased my understanding of teaching fundamentals while providing me insight into what it takes to be an educator. Both professors showed an interest in my personal success and took the initiative to encourage me to think in ways I hadn't before.

Recently, I was recognized as an Academic Excellence Award winner (highest honors) and I was inducted into Omicron Delta Epsilon (ODE), the International Honor Society in Economics. Currently, I have an on-campus job as a math grader. Making use of all the opportunities I have been offered, I can now consider the possibility of furthering my education here at WSBE. I will also be graduating with two degrees. I am not sure that I would have had the same opportunities at other schools. Hopefully, these achievements will increase my eligibility as a candidate for graduate school and future job opportunities.

What are your plans for the future?

Possibly graduate school, either to further my studies in Economics or in Mathematics. 

Academic Excellence
Honors Program
Inquiry student editorial board
Omicron Delta Epsilon
Presidential Scholarship