On Tuesday, 45,000 dockworkers went on strike for the first time in decades, impacting 36 U.S. ports from Maine to Texas. This strike highlights a growing tension between technological innovation and job security, a conflict that will likely affect us all. At the core of this issue lies a fundamental question: How can we embrace innovation without sacrificing workers’ livelihoods?

Today, we explore the role of innovation in economic growth, the fears associated with job displacement, and the responsibilities of government and corporations in creating an environment that welcomes disruption while protecting workers.

Today, I want to explore a topic that often goes unnoticed: how language can be used to exclude people from "being in the room." This is why I'm so passionate about teaching my students the language of professionalism and economics—it's the driving force behind this newsletter and our podcast.

More resources in the newsletter www.WithDrA.com

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. A and Matt Frey discuss early career advice and how to navigate the transition from college to the workforce. They emphasize the importance of networking, being authentic, and strategic thinking. Matt shares his insights on the application process, including the need to understand the changing labor market and minimize information asymmetry. He also provides advice on how to succeed in a new job, such as being prepared, disciplined, and willing to say yes to opportunities. They discuss the importance of continuous learning, staying informed about industry trends, and maintaining relationships with your network. The conversation explores the importance of gratitude and nurturing relationships in personal and professional life. It emphasizes the value of expressing gratitude and giving credit to others, as well as the impact it can have on building and maintaining relationships. The conversation also discusses the significance of maintaining relationships through regular touchpoints and finding ways to connect with others. Additionally, it highlights the importance of academic success and finding a balance between extracurricular activities and academics. The conversation concludes with reflections on the growth and success of the Hale Fellows Program and the goals for its future.

Takeaways

• Networking is crucial for career success. Invest in building relationships and maintaining connections.

• Be authentic and true to yourself in the workplace. Let your personality shine through.

• Strategic thinking is important. Plan ahead, be proactive, and make decisions that align with your career goals.

• Stay informed about industry trends and developments. Read articles, follow industry experts, and listen to podcasts.

• Document your accomplishments and progress. Keep track of your work and share it with your manager to showcase your value.

• Don't be afraid to reach out to people for advice and guidance. Audacity and confidence can open doors and create opportunities.

• Continue to nurture old connections and maintain relationships. Share your success and show gratitude for their contributions to your career. Expressing gratitude and giving credit to others can strengthen relationships and brighten someone's day.

• Regular touchpoints and nurturing old relationships are important for maintaining connections.

• Finding a balance between extracurricular activities and academics is crucial for academic success.

• The Hale Fellows Program has grown and evolved, and alumni are encouraged to give back and support current students.

• Attending conferences and networking events can provide valuable experiences and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Discussion on Notre Dame

02:06 Introduction of Matt Frey and Topic of Early Career Advice

04:11 Navigating the Transition from College to Career

07:29 The Importance of Networking and Authenticity

10:24 Strategic Thinking for Career Success

16:38 Staying Informed and Continuous Learning

19:12 Documenting Accomplishments and Progress

22:24 The Power of Reaching Out and Maintaining Connections

25:38 The Power of Gratitude and Giving Credit

28:23 Balancing Extracurricular Activities and Academics

36:02 The Growth and Success of the Hale Fellows Program

43:01 Attending Conferences and Networking Events for Personal and Professional Growth

Keywords

early career advice, college to career transition, networking, authenticity, strategic thinking, application process, labor market, information asymmetry, success in a new job, continuous learning, industry trends, maintaining relationships, gratitude, nurturing relationships, expressing gratitude, giving credit, maintaining relationships, touchpoints, academic success, extracurricular activities, Hale Fellows Program

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:

• (03:10) Becca credits the Haile Fellows Program for opening up new career paths and opportunities she wouldn't have considered otherwise, like working in a nonprofit organization

• (10:24) Reflection is crucial for personal and professional growth; Becca suggests having verbal discussions to process reflections and share with others for support and guidance

• (20:47) Transitioning from college to a full-time job can be challenging, especially adjusting to a consistent work schedule and maintaining optimal brain function through proper sleep and nutrition

• (27:36) Building a strong support system and staying connected with peers who are going through similar experiences can help navigate the challenges of post-graduate life

• (32:26) When faced with multiple career options, prioritize moving forward and learning what you don't like; choose opportunities with managers who invest in your growth and development

• (39:15) Becca believes her future lies in academia but values her current experiences in the business world to develop her beliefs and collide with new ideas

• (48:49) Advice for current Haile Fellows: connect with alumni, be confident in your strengths, take on new opportunities even if you're unsure, and lean into your passions

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

• The Haile Fellows Program provides a valuable opportunity for students to engage in research, develop critical skills, and differentiate themselves in the job market.

• Being coachable, having a growth mindset, and persisting through challenges is essential for success in the program and beyond.

• Research experiences can lead to higher earnings and open up new career opportunities.

• Overcoming the fear of failure and vulnerability is key to personal and professional growth.

• Trusting others and being open to new opportunities can lead to unexpected and rewarding experiences.

• Long-term thinking and taking calculated risks can lead to personal and professional development.

Sound Bites

• "Being vulnerable is a good thing."

• "The camaraderie of the group was key to the program's success."

• "Research and writing a paper was instrumental in launching my career."

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Tyler Kent

• 03:00 The Value of Research and Developing Essential Skills

• 08:11 The Importance of Camaraderie and Trust

• 13:32 Research and Career Development

• 29:28 Trusting the Process and Seizing Opportunities

• 39:18 Advice for Current Fellows and Conclusion