This week, we explore economic research and career development with Ben Reynolds, the first Haile Fellow. Now a senior research analyst for the Council of State Governments, Ben's journey showcases the versatility of economics skills across industries. He emphasizes the importance of effective communication in research and the value of combining quantitative and qualitative methods.

Ben's experience pursuing a master's degree in economics at the University of Essex during the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the benefits of international education and building a global network. His advice to students: focus on personal connections and problem-solving skills – crucial for success in any economics-related career.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:03The Haile Fellows Program and Ben's Experience

03:18 Building Connections and Learning Through Problem Solving

04:19 Advice for Fellow Students on Data Cleaning and Analysis

05:37 Having a Question and Applying Economics Skills

06:16 Leveraging the Fellowship for Internships

07:33 Transitioning to Work at Triad and Grad School

08:09 Translating Skills for New Internships

10:03 The Variety of Career Paths in Economics

12:10 The Importance of Communication in Research

14:01 Presenting Information for Different Audiences

15:26 The Fun and Variety of Ben's Current Role

16:36 The Impact of Local Policy and the American Rescue Plan Funding

19:15 Ben's Passion for History and its Synergy with Economics

21:02 The Role of History in Economics Research

22:05 The Importance of Quantitative and Qualitative Methods

24:59 Pursuing a Master's Degree in Economics Abroad

29:34 Challenges of Completing a Degree During COVID-19

33:39 Building Personal Connections and Problem-Solving Skills

Today, we sit down with Becca Wilson, an NKU Haile College of Business alumna, former Haile Research Fellow, and current employee at 3CDC.

Key Takeaways:

Guest: Brooklyn Stephens, NKU Economics alumna, former Haile Research Fellow, adjunct professor, and MBA graduate from the University of Kentucky

Key Takeaways:

• (05:28) Brooklyn shares her most memorable experience as a Haile Research Fellow, presenting at the Kentucky Economic Association conference amidst challenging personal circumstances  

• (07:57) The support and empathy from Dr. A during this difficult time greatly influenced Brooklyn's leadership style and teaching approach

• (12:35) Brooklyn's research experience enhanced critical thinking, communication, and presentation skills that have been invaluable in her career

• (14:54) Brooklyn and Dr. A collaborated on an international consulting project on financial literacy education after she graduated

• (17:17) Brooklyn's research paper from her time as a Haile Fellow was published in November 2023

• (22:04) Brooklyn chose to pursue an MBA at University of Kentucky to have a new experience at a larger school, but values her undergraduate experience at NKU

• (37:04) As an adjunct professor at NKU, Brooklyn taught ECO 309 (Data Tools for Economic Analysis) and inspired students like Brandon Hester to become curious and engaged learners  

• (45:07) Brooklyn advises students facing personal challenges to build connections with faculty early on and communicate openly about their situations

• (48:26) In your twenties, it's okay to break societal "rules" and expectations when following your passion; rely on your network and community for support during times of uncertainty

Discussion Topics: 

• (24:05) Navigating the decision between entering the workforce or pursuing graduate school after completing an undergraduate degree

• (26:26) The importance of having a supportive network and seeking out empathetic leaders  

• (29:53) Leveraging research experience for career opportunities and skill development

• (34:42) Sharing student stories to showcase the diverse experiences and successes at NKU

• (39:24) Balancing personal challenges with academic and professional responsibilities

• (41:42) Building relationships with professors and being open about personal circumstances affecting school  

• (50:42) Normalizing changing career paths and prioritizing personal well-being, even if it goes against conventional expectations

In this episode of Economics with Dr. A, Dr. Abdullah Al Bahrani interviews Tyler Kent, a graduate from the class of 2019 and a former participant in the Haile Fellows Program. They discuss Tyler's experience in the program, its impact on his career, and his advice for current fellows. The conversation highlights the importance of experimentation, curiosity, and having fun in the learning process. Tyler emphasizes the value of research and developing skills such as coachability, critical thinking, and persistence. He also encourages fellows to be open to new opportunities, be vulnerable, and trust in the process.

Takeaways

Sound Bites

Chapters

In this episode of Economics with Dr. A, we sit down with Sophia Hermosilla, a recent graduate of Thomas More University and a former fellow at the Zembrodt Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. Sophia shares her journey from Panama, her home country, to pursuing her undergraduate degree in the US. She has decided to continue her education with a graduate degree at George Washington University.

Key Takeaways:

Sophia's story is about determination, passion, and the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive mentors and peers. As she embarks on her graduate school journey at George Washington University, she carries the lessons learned and connections made during her time at Thomas More University.

Chapters 

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:02:08 - Sophia's journey to Thomas More University

00:04:32 - Sophia's choice of major and passion for international relations

00:06:54 - Sophia's driven and motivated nature

00:09:17 - The power of asking questions and seeking help

00:12:23 - Sophia's most prideful moment of the year

00:14:47 - The importance of Mrs. A's mentorship

00:17:12 - Sophia's connection with Mrs. A and the safe space she provides

00:19:14 - The importance of building connections and asking questions

00:21:16 - Sophia's dependability and initiative

00:23:28 - The decision to pursue a graduate degree

00:25:53 - Applying to graduate school and being true to oneself

00:27:57 - Sophia's choice of graduate school and excitement for the future

00:30:16 - Transitioning from a small community to a large one

00:32:40 - The importance of leaning on a network during challenging times

00:34:53 - The impact of fellow students on Sophia's journey

00:37:18 - Dr. A's parting words for Sophia

00:37:50 - Mrs. A's parting words for Sophia

00:40:15 - Conclusion and upcoming episodes

Summary

In this powerful episode, Dr. Abdullah Al Bahrani sits down with Mrs. Jeni Al Bahrani and Erin Preston, a graduating senior at Thomas More University, to discuss Erin's experience as a fellow at the Zembrodt Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

The main themes include professional development, mentorship, and the importance of community. Erin shares her journey of initially hesitating to join the program but eventually embracing it and finding success. The conversation also highlights the impact of mentorship and the power of taking on uncomfortable opportunities for personal growth. Erin discusses her job search process and the role of personal relationships in finding employment. 

1. The fellowship program focuses on professional development and mentorship, with fellows learning to be both mentees and mentors.

2. Despite initial fears and uncertainty, Erin chose to join the fellowship program, which she describes as her favorite experience at Thomas More.

3. Erin emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and using role models as inspiration rather than trying to emulate them.

4. Mrs. A highlights the mutual benefits of the mentor-mentee relationship, noting how much she has learned and grown from working with Erin and the other fellows.

5. Erin's most proud moment was representing Thomas More at a panel discussion on entrepreneurship programs, where she overcame her nerves to articulate the value of the fellowship program.

6. The power of relationships and community is a central theme. Erin secured her post-graduation job through her connection with Mrs. A and her involvement in the local business community.

7. Dr. A and Mrs. A express their pride in Erin's growth and willingness to embrace discomfort for personal and professional development.

ChaptersTakeaways

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Dr. Abdullah Al Bahrani welcomes Grace McConn, a graduating Haile Fellow, to reflect on her experience in the program. Grace is the commencement speaker for her upcoming graduation and a Haile Fellow. We discuss the five things she learned while working as a Haile Fellow. 

5 Key Things Grace Learned as a Haile Fellow:

1. The Power of Community (04:23)

2. Teaching and Being a Professor (13:45)

3. The Power of Storytelling (17:12) 

4. The Power of Reflection (22:30)

5. Adding Value to the Team (28:38)

Advice for New Fellows (35:28)

Conclusion (37:20)

Episode Description: In this episode, Dr. A delves into the troubling trend of the declining share of income allocated to American workers, despite their increasing productivity and output. The discussion explores the factors contributing to this decline, including globalization, the decline in union membership, and the growing automation of jobs. Dr. A also examines the recent groundbreaking decision by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to ban noncompete clauses and its potential impact on workers, businesses, and innovation. Join us as we navigate the complex economic realities and discuss the path forward towards a more equitable distribution of growth and prosperity.

Key Takeaways:

Topics Covered:

Episode Outline:

Calls to Action:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Congratulations to Graduates

04:23 The Versatility of an Economics Degree

09:02 The Power of Networking

13:08 Negotiating Job Offers

22:08 Transitioning from College to the Real World