Students at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics have almost 30 unique student groups that they can choose to join. In each installment of this series, an executive member of one of these student groups will share their first-hand experience choosing, participating in and eventually leading their group.
Kyra Giakas, Class of 2022 finance and economics double major, is the vice president of finance of Women in Economics at the Lerner College. Giakas shared why she joined Women in Economics, what makes this group unique and more!
Lerner: When and why did you choose to join this student group?
Giakas: I was approached by Professor Soares, along with three other peers, to initiate this club in order to address the disparity between men and women in the field of economics. As an economics major, I am extremely passionate about this issue and believe that we have the power to change the stigma held around economics as a male-dominated field. In reality, there are many opportunities for women within the field and, as a group, we hope to show women all the different opportunities that await them, both academically and professionally.
Lerner: What is the mission/goal of your student group?
Giakas: Our vision is to create an environment of equality and inclusivity for all economics students at the University of Delaware so that one day there will no longer be a need to advocate specifically for female undergraduate economic students. We hope to bring more women to the field of economics and to support them in their academic and professional endeavors.
Lerner: When and where does your student group meet and approximately how many members do you have?
Giakas: Right now, we are limited to meeting virtually. We try to meet at least once a month. We have approximately 25 members.
Lerner: What is your best memory from this student group?
Giakas: From the first interest meeting we had, it was clear that so many women were passionate about economics and wanting to learn more about what the area of study offered. It was great to see a community start to form within such a diverse group of women.
Lerner: What is unique about your student group?
Giakas: Something that is really unique about this student group is the ability of members to really make it their own. Because this is a relatively new group, members have a huge say in the structure of the organization, what we are doing and how we are doing certain things. This group really presents a great opportunity for people from all different backgrounds to build a special community.
Lerner: What has been your proudest moment leading your student group?
Giakas: I have been really proud of the determination and resilience of the executive board and the members of the group to really keep this group going. We started this group right before we were all sent home because of the pandemic, so it has been great to see members and the executive board still engaging one another.
Lerner: What are your goals for the future of your student group?
Giakas: We hope to expand the group and reach more members of the Lerner community. We are also dedicated to providing great opportunities and experiences. I know one thing we really want to focus on this semester is networking events.
Lerner: How has your student group helped you grow?
Giakas: Women in Economics has definitely allowed me to grow as a leader and it has also given me the opportunity to expand my network of individuals. This has contributed to my personal, academic and professional growth.