Interview for Department Newsletter
Fordham University’s Department of Economics interviewed me for their Winter 2020 newsletter.
Why did you choose to go into the MA program?
I wanted to change careers. Before grad school, I was a product manager at a tech startup in the publishing industry. In undergrad, I double-majored in creative writing and economics, which was the perfect combo for publishing. But startups are emotional rollercoasters - the highs are really high and the lows are really low - and my startup experience taught me three things:
I liked economics a lot more than I had previously thought.
When a business plan isn't working, pivot.
Be agile: make small changes and then learn from them.
We ultimately sold the startup - it was a success - and then I decided to go back to school.
How did you find balancing the program and working?
It took me a semester to find the right balance. Between classes and a part time job, I actually overcommitted myself my first semester. Professor Francis then helped me work out a more sustainable course plan.
What advice would you give incoming MA students?
Grad school is an opportunity to study a field you're passionate about, and I feel like it's more important to learn than to get good grades. Explore topics you're interested in. Find friends you can study (and party) with. Lastly, I think you can pick up general skills from each class. For example, Topics in Economic History taught me how to conduct academic research - a skill I've used in several other classes. Use the MA to acquire the skills to pursue your interests after the program.
What was your most memorable experience or favorite class?
I've enjoyed all of my classes, but my most memorable experiences have come from spending time with friends - collaborating on projects, studying together, and hanging out outside of class.