James Norman is a senior economics student. He plans to graduate in the Fall of 2023 and is currently serving as president of the Economics Club.

Norman is from Dexter, Missouri, located in the bootheel. Missouri State was the perfect fit as it was far enough from home. When James visited the campus, he felt a click and knew it was where he wanted to attend college. 

In the bootheel, Norman’s family does one of two things: they work at the farm or the family business, Norman Insurance and Financial Services. James was heavily involved with the firm in high school. 

He began to learn about the 2008 financial crisis during high school. His family was able to survive The Great Recession with the finance firm. 

Learning about this history sparked an interest in studying business. Norman considered finance but ultimately decided economics was the perfect fit as it was broad enough to encapsulate all his interests. 

James plans to work in banking once he graduates. He currently works as a bank teller and plans to transition into a different role once he earns his degree. 

Experience as an Economics Student

Norman is pursuing a bachelor of science in economics with a minor in history. He chose history as his minor because he believes it gives a lot of context to how markets have developed in the past. 

“Context is key for understanding what is going on now and what will go on in the future,” explained Norman. 

His favorite economics class has been Economic Analysis of Law with Dr. Mitchell.

“Dr. Mitchell has come about the class in a very unique way. For example, we have had to completely make a unanimous contract over how the class would be structured,” said Norman.

Students decide on all aspects of the class ranging from whether they will have tests or midterms to what the grading scale will look like. Dr. Michell also has to agree and joins in on the discussion.

He found studying the law to be very interesting and complementary to economics. In knowing how the legal system works, Norman feels he has gained an important understanding of how economics works within the legal realm. 

Norman would recommend studying economics to any student as he believes the way it is taught at Missouri State is broad enough to appeal to the interests of any student. 

“We have really supportive staff. The Economics Department is one of the most hospitable and tight-knit departments I have worked with. Every interaction I have had within the department has been very positive,” said Norman.

Study Economics at Missouri State

The Economics Club

James is the acting president of the Economics Club on campus. He got involved with the club in the fall of last year. He wanted to be more involved on campus and in the department. 

He was encouraged to email the president at the time. After doing so, he began attending meetings and found it was a group of chill people he enjoyed being around.

Over the summer, James worked with a fellow exec member to bring in new ideas. His goal for the club is to make a foundation based on longevity and quality.

“During my last semester, I want to step down as president and know there will be a capable undergraduate student that will be able to continue the club and its tradition,” said Norman.

To learn more about the economics club and when they meet, email James at James218@live.missouristate.edu

Advice for Underclassmen

When asked if he had any advice for fellow students, Norman said the following, “Get involved in a campus organization where you feel comfortable. The social aspect is a good building block as you are more likely to stay here if you have friends.”