How Can I Have a Career in Austrian Economics?

I get a very substantial number of inquiries like this:

I’m just finishing my last semester of junior college and as it stands now, I will receive my undergrad in economics. I’m a passionate austro-libertarian but as I have never actually met another like myself, I’m at a loss as to how one would make a career as an Austrian or libertarian. With that being said I’m not sure how committed I am to my degree and I’m looking for advice on possible schools I could look into or career paths I may consider that would put my passion to work.

I never quite know what to say. In general I think it’s a mistake to try to make a career our of being a libertarian. Ah, but Woods, isn’t that what you do? Sort of, yes, but that was never my intention. My own circumstances are extremely unusual and not easy to replicate. If you’re really interested in Austrian economics, then go ahead and become an economist. If you are interested in libertarianism, maybe a better thing to do is make some contribution to society and pursue your libertarian passion as your calling.

I strongly recommend watching this video. It’s too long, you say. Watch it over lunch. You will enjoy it, and you’ll learn something from it.