During the summer we were thrilled to hear that Rani P (Year 13) was awarded joint first place in an economics essay competition run by Tutor2u. Students were asked to produce a creative response on the theme of “the most influential economist.” Rani wrote an interview script transcribing an interview with Adam Smith in a modern context, which the judges said they loved!

Her entry was included in the latest copy of The Notting Hill Critic but you can also read it here on the competition website.

We asked Rani about the competition.

Why did you enter?

I initially entered the competition because I wanted to further expand my knowledge of economics as a subject, and exploring the influence of economists on modern society really appealed to me. I saw the competition as an opportunity to dive deeper into economic concepts and to think creatively about how these ideas shaped modern economies.

Did you know immediately how to approach the challenge? 

Not immediately. At first, I had a few different ideas about how I could present Adam Smith’s theories and their influence on modern economies. After some reflection, I wanted to ensure that I not only conveyed the essence of his theories but also emphasised their lasting impact on many different countries. This led me to the idea of writing an interview, which gave me the opportunity to explore his ideas in a creative way.

Why did you choose Adam Smith?

I chose Adam Smith because he is often considered the father of modern economics, and his theories, especially around the invisible hand and free markets, have had a significant influence on many modern economies, such as Singapore and Hong Kong, which I explored in my interview.

What was the hardest thing about writing it?

The hardest part was trying to balance a thorough exploration of Smith’s theories whilst also maintaining the central focus of the interview, which was demonstrating his influence on modern economies. I wanted to ensure that the interview was fluid and provided enough depth to show the significance of his ideas without overwhelming the reader.

What do you enjoy most about Economics at school?

What I enjoy most about economics at school is how it connects logical theory with real-world application. It’s interesting to see how the concepts and ideas we learn in class can explain real economic behaviour, from government policy decisions to market trends. This practical understanding has deepened my appreciation for the subject and made me even more curious about how economic principles shape the societies we live in.

Are you planning  on continuing Economics at University?

Yes, I’m definitely planning to study economics at University. This competition reaffirmed my passion for the subject, and I’m eager to explore it in even more depth after my A-levels.

Well done!