M. A. Applied Economics (2018)

Billy Graves is a master’s student in applied economics who takes his education very seriously. “I am first and foremost a student,” said Billy, but when he does have free time, he comes to the Rec to relax by climbing or playing badminton. Whether it’s in economics or rock climbing, Billy enjoys the challenge. “You can look at a rock and try to find your own way up it. It’s different for almost every person and just the very idea of solving that puzzle and pushing your whole body to new limits is something that is amazing.” He started spending so much time at the rec that he decided to put his climbing skills to use by getting a job in the department of Outdoor Adventure. Billy also became the leader of the climbing club. 
For Billy, the rec has become not only a place to get in shape, but also to increase his confidence in his knowledge of the outdoors, to have fun on OA trips and competitions and lastly, to bond with his co-workers. “My department really feels like a family.” His ultimate goal is to obtain a PhD and become a professor in economics. Billy navigates his studies and his career path with the same mentality he uses on the climbing wall: “It may be a while until I get there, but I’ll find a way.”