Maia Quirk

As a senior double-majoring in Finance and Economics, as well as participating in the Kathwari Honors Program, Western Connecticut State University student Maia Quirk has no shortage of things to keep her busy. In her financial studies, Quirk understands that the world economy, and the world in general, is so much bigger than Connecticut and the United States. That’s one of the many reasons she found herself in Seoul, South Korea, this summer, where she studied International Economics and Business at Yonsei University.

Quirk learned a lot, explaining, “These courses enhanced my academics from an international viewpoint of the field. Most notably, the Econometrics course increased my knowledge and abilities to evaluate data and conduct statistical analysis.”

Besides taking courses in Sinchon, Seoul, Quirk ventured to Myeongdong for lively street fairs and night markets. She also explored Busan through cable cars along the east coast and hiked up to Baegundae Peak’s breathtaking views of Seoul.

Maia Quirk

One of Quirk’s most memorable experiences was visiting the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea. She began her journey at Dorasan Peace Park, dedicated to the families separated by the Korean War. She later visited an observation deck where she could glimpse into North Korea. She also went into the Third Infantry Tunnel where North Koreans had tunneled into the South. She ended with a walk through the DMZ farmers market, where the peace village showcases all the richness of Korean culture.

Quirk emphasized how much of her transformative experiences at WestConn were a direct result of her enrollment into the Kathwari Honors Program. She enjoys her studies and is excited to see where they will take her, but she prides herself in being a well-rounded and adventurous person because of the opportunities to learn outside of her majors.

“Without the generous funding from the Kathwari Family and the Barden Fund,” Quirk explained, “I would not have been able to learn valuable information to enhance my abilities within the Economics field or experience all that South Korea has to offer. The benefits and opportunities that the program offers have infinite value that will be useful throughout both college and future career life.”