In Their Words: Noah Boden-Gologorsky

Name: Noah Boden-Gologorsky

Department: Economics

College: Stevenson

What Award/ Scholarship did you receive? Undergraduate Award in Economics

What year do you expect to graduate? 2020

Where do you call home? San Francisco, CA

With all of the choices for college, what made UC Santa Cruz stand out? It is the most beautiful campus I’ve ever seen. Upon touring UCSC, I stopped and asked a student why she chose to attend UCSC. She conveyed that it was impossible to get sad, that when she got sad, all she had to do was take a glance around her. I’ve found this to be completely representative of my experience here as well.

What is your field of focus? Currently my interests include Environmental and Behavioral Economics.

What do you hope to do once you graduate from UC Santa Cruz? I certainly see some form of graduate school in my future, however, whether that is through the pursuit of a Master’s Degree, or Doctorate, remains to be uncovered. Post graduate, I hope to use the skills I’ve gained to make a tangible impact in the world. Whether that means questioning fundamental economic choices made by all individuals, or helping to facilitate change in the business sector, which so desperately needs to become more environmentally conscious.

What is one memorable moment that stands out for you as a student here? I sat on the Knoll one evening, during my first year here at UCSC, and was approached by a fellow UCSC student. I played my ukulele as we sang together, neither of us particularly talented nor skilled, but nevertheless enjoying every moment. My new friend told me a terrifying story about events that they had experienced within the last few days, and I listened intently. Despite their hardship, they spoke with such resiliency and optimism. That evening, I was reminded of the strength people hold. How even when we feel that we have no choice, we can always choose our approach, as well as how we want to move forward.

What is your one piece of advice for incoming students about life at UC Santa Cruz? Study hard, but also realize the countless other opportunities that college presents. Go on that hike. Meet up with that new friend. Take chances. Be open-minded. And enjoy.

How will this scholarship/award impact your academic life/research? This scholarship has enabled more financial freedom within my own life. I now have slightly more wiggle room; with which I hope to engage in future research and ducational opportunities here at UCSC. I am extremely grateful for receiving the award, and look forward to continuing my studies.