About Econ Collective

A student-led platform making economics, finance and business more accessible through expert talks, real-world perspectives and meaningful discussion.

Econ Collective was created to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical understanding. Through online talks and interactive Q&A sessions, students can engage directly with academics and professionals, explore university-level ideas, and develop a deeper understanding of the economic forces shaping everyday life.

Founder Story

Founded by Daria Hess

Daria Hess established Econ Collective with a vision to bridge the gap between high-level academic theory and the practical interests of ambitious students. Having recognized that complex economic and financial concepts are often locked behind institutional walls, she sought to create a conduit for expert knowledge.

With a background in economic research and a passion for education, Daria identified a significant lack of accessible platforms where young people could engage directly with industry leaders and scholars in an informal yet intellectually rigorous setting.

„This platform was created to make expert knowledge more approachable, relevant and inspiring for younger audiences.“

Daria Hess

Founder & Executive Director

Why Econ Collective exists

Economics affects almost every part of modern life — from policy and markets to technology, sustainability, careers and global development. Yet for many students, economic ideas often remain abstract, textbook-based or disconnected from real-world application. Econ Collective aims to change that by creating a space where students can listen, ask questions and engage with people who work directly with these topics. The platform encourages curiosity, critical thinking and informed discussion beyond the classroom.

Beyond the classroom

Connecting academic concepts with real-world perspectives, current issues and practical examples.

Accessible expert knowledge

Making high-quality insights from academics and professionals approachable for students.

Student-led curiosity

Built by students, for students — with a focus on questions, discussion and intellectual growth.

Our mission

To make high-quality economic thinking accessible to every student — not just those at elite institutions. We believe rigorous analysis, diverse perspectives, and intellectual community should be available to everyone who is curious about how the world works.

Curiosity

We believe great economics starts with asking „why“ and never settling for surface-level answers.

Critical Thinking

We challenge assumptions, question conventional wisdom, and demand rigorous evidence for every claim.

Accessibility

Economic insight shouldn’t be gated behind expensive textbooks or exclusive networks. Knowledge is a common good.

Real-World Relevance

Theory matters only when it illuminates practice. We connect ideas to the policies and markets that shape our lives.