Michael Escobar graduated in spring 2019 with a major in Economics and a minor in English. After graduation, he started working for a marketing company in Los Angeles.

The Road to Humboldt and Economics

When asked about why he chose Humboldt he said ”I just stumbled straight out of high school and wanted a unique experience. I felt like a lot of my options were limited here in southern California, because, I would have to commute to a community college... I wanted more than that - I wanted, you know, the feeling of independence.”

Michael started as an English major, but switched to Econ after taking Econ 210. He said that Econ felt “safer” for him because it was something that he picked up easily and found interesting. He enjoys managing data and working with Excel, which made his major in economics enjoyable. And, he was able to use some of the coursework from his English major in the Interdisciplinary Pathway of the Econ major.

He also enjoyed the Humboldt campus and was able to take advantage of some of the hands-on opportunities that the Economics Department offered to him. He explained how being given the opportunity to be an Econ 210 Supplemental Instruction instructor helped him gain a more solid understanding of the Principles of Economics.

Reflections and Advice for Students

Michael stressed the importance of learning how to manage data and use Excel. He explained how he applied these skills to his most recent job in the marketing department of a business. Although he is currently he is looking for a new job, he will continue to use the skills learned at Humboldt throughout his career. 

Some advice that he would give incoming freshmen is to have fun and enjoy the campus but stay focused on your schoolwork.

For recent graduates he said to not worry if things don’t turn out the way you expect them to.