Amazing Student – Philip Kramer
Texas A&M Department of Economics Amazing Student
January, 2022
Name:
Philip Kramer
Hometown:
Malvern, PA
High School:
Malvern Preparatory School
Degree objective:
BS in Economics, Minor in Environmental Geoscience, MS in Economics (Fastrack)
Expected graduation:
December 2022
University highlights, awards, scholarships:
Dean’s List, Neal Hahn Memorial Scholarship Recipient, Maroon Merit Scholarship, Phi Kappa Phi
Clubs/Organizations I am (was) a part of:
Twelve President and Service Executive, Fish Camp Counselor, and Traditions Council Member
Current employment:
Student Research Assistant in the Department of Economics
Family ties to Texas A&M:
My mom, grandfather, aunts, and uncle all attended Texas A&M. I also had two cousins graduate from A&M with their undergraduate degrees during my time here.
I chose to attend Texas A&M because…
I come from a family of Aggies, so it should be no surprise that I attend this great university! Ultimately, the traditions and camaraderie at A&M stood out to me when making my final college decision. I knew going to school in Texas would be a different cultural experience compared to the schools I applied to around Pennsylvania. I am so thankful that I decided to attend A&M!
My favorite things to do on campus are…
I love grabbing lunch and studying in the MSC between work and classes.
When I have free time, I like…
I try and succeed at keeping myself very busy! When I have free time, I like to read, cook, and play video games and board games with friends. I also enjoy camping, badminton, and bowling.
The craziest thing I’ve done is…
During the Fall 2020 semester, I ran through campus in a Santa suit to raise money for my organization’s philanthropy, Tiny Hope Village. It brought Christmas cheer, confusion, and excitement to the many people that saw me!
My favorite place to study is…
I study best in busy places where people can see what I am working on. It helps keep me accountable and motivated. On-campus, I like to work in the MSC cafeteria or on the second floor of Evans Library.
My favorite ECON professor is…
Dr. Fernando Luco! His Antitrust and Data Science classes were my absolute favorite ECON electives. He works hard to create a fantastic learning environment, applies the material to real-world issues, and makes himself accessible outside the classroom. I highly recommend any class Dr. Luco teaches.
My favorite part of being an Economics student is…
We are fortunate to have such amazing faculty and staff in our department. I have always felt like the department cares about every student and works hard to create an excellent educational experience.
If I could share an afternoon with anyone, I would love to share it with…
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. The Little Prince is my favorite book, and I would love to meet and understand the man that wrote it.
If I knew I could not fail, I would…
If I knew I could not fail, I would work on a cure for food allergies. My allergies greatly impact the way I live my life, and it would be amazing to see that issue eradicated during my lifetime.
If money was not a consideration, I would love to…
I enjoy being a student and learning. If money was not a consideration, I would keep going back to school for different degrees. After that, I would like to start a ranch and build a library.
What is your passion and how are you committed to pursuing it?
I am passionate about climate change, alternative energy, and environmental politics. I started as a geoscience major but quickly realized that environmental issues are multidisciplinary, and an economics degree can help me approach them in a unique way. Whatever path I decide to take in the future, I am committed to pursuing a career that fulfills my passions.
After graduation, I plan to…
I am still working out what my post-graduation plans are, but I am optimistic I will end up exactly where I am meant to be! I have a budding interest in data science, and I am also considering the idea of going back to school for a Ph.D.
The one Texas A&M experience I will always remember is…
It’s hard to pick just one experience! If I had to pick, receiving my Aggie Ring is at the top of my list. That day I looked back with pride over what I accomplished while also feeling motivated to enter the world as a member of the Aggie family! It also felt especially rewarding after several challenging semesters affected by Covid.