In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst sits down with Drew Blazsik to dive into the evolving world of financial modeling in academia. Drew brings a fresh perspective on how students can better grasp complex concepts using structured, interactive learning. The conversation touches on practical teaching methods, the common pitfalls students face, and why blending creativity with structure is key to mastering the three-statement model.

Drew Blazsik is an assistant professor at Adrian College, where he teaches finance and economics. With over a decade of teaching experience at institutions like the University of Toledo and Lourdes University, Drew has a passion for connecting academic finance theory with real-world applications. He is also the creator of the Structured Immediate Method (SIM), an innovative teaching tool designed to help students master financial modeling skills in a dynamic and engaging way. Drew hosts the Faith and Finance Podcast and runs the Logos and Markets YouTube channel, where he explores financial modeling, economic theory, and more.

Expect to Learn

• Common mistakes students make in financial modeling and how to avoid them.
• How Drew’s Structured Immediate Method (SIM) enhances student learning.
• Why learning Python is crucial for modern financial modelers.
• The impact of gamification and interactive learning on mastering financial concepts.
• Drew's take on the future of financial modeling in the age of AI.

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “Once you understand how to create a financial model, it all clicks and makes finance come together.” - Drew Blazsik
• “AI is awesome for creativity, but it starts with you, the human, being creative.” - Drew Blazsik
• “The SIM method helps students get instant feedback, which improves their learning and engagement.” -Drew Blazsik

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• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewblazsik/
• YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/drewblazsik

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In today’s episode: 

[04:15] - Student Modeling Mistakes

[09:07] - Defining Financial Models

[12:08] - Teaching Finance vs. Economics

[18:21] - Course Feedback

[36:27] - Unique Excel Model

[39:04] - Excel Shortcuts

[42:44] - Financial Models in Decision Making

[45:40] - Importance of Python

[50:39] - Last Question