Passion for economics leads student to strive for social good and policy change
Economics student Lucy Scott, ’27, has taken a unique view of economics since she began at USC. Through research, involvement and hands-on experiences, Scott has discovered a niche for making policy change in the field of economics.
As an Economics Scholar this semester, Scott looked at a real-world issue that impacts K-12 children, especially those from low-income families.
“I am a part of Economics Scholars where I am working on a semester-long research project analyzing the effects of chronic absenteeism on standardized K-12 test scores in South Carolina,” she says.
Her passion for policy and advocacy work led her to attend a domestic violence event at Vanderbilt University; an experience she describes as transformative.
“In early 2025, I had the pleasure of attending Domestic Violence Prosecution Innovation Day at Vanderbilt. The experience surpassed any expectations I had of the event,” she says. “The day was filled with informative presentations, insightful conversations and connections with amazing individuals from all areas of the domestic violence space.”
These insights from the event reinforced her interest in examining how economic research translates into real-world policy work.
“I wanted to attend because I have a passion for economics and was extremely excited to see how economists affect policy in the real world,” Scott says. “My biggest takeaway is that it truly takes a village to get things done. Economists, researchers, social workers and prosecutors all need to work together to create effective policy.”
Scott says the most memorable moments came from talking with professionals throughout the day.
“The individuals that I was able to speak with at this event reassured me about my passion for economics and learning,” she explains. “I met attorneys, policy analysts and scholars, all of which I gained endless insight into. It showed me the importance of spending your entire life yearning for knowledge, not just your college years.”
Scott’s interest in domestic violence advocacy reflects her commitment to socially impactful work.
“Domestic violence is such an important issue that needs more awareness and better solutions,” she says. “I am specifically drawn to it because of the familial effects and the complexity involved in these cases.”
She credits her professors at the Moore School for helping shape her career path.
“My professors at Darla Moore have had the biggest impact and aid in my career ambitions. Multiple professors at the Moore School have served as mentors for me in the economics world and have inspired me to pursue economics,” Scott says. “Their guidance has inspired me to pursue policy-focused work in health and criminal justice economics.”
Scott’s academic experiences have further reinforced her career ambitions.
“I originally chose economics because I wanted to go into the business world and enjoyed taking microeconomics in high school. I fell in love with economics during my time at USC,” she says.
Reflecting on her journey so far, Scott emphasizes the importance of taking initiative.
“Many professors are very willing to help students pursue their interests, but you just need to reach out and ask, or they would never know,” she says.
Looking ahead, Scott is focused on advanced studies and policy work.
“My long-term goal is to pursue a master’s degree and potentially a Ph.D. in economics,” she says. “I hope to work as a policy analyst in health care and get more involved in government affairs, using economics to make a meaningful social impact.”
-Amanda Green