Teaching

There is nothing quite like sharing economics with undergraduates. All too often, economics is perceived as belonging in old tomes rather than in the world students inhabit every day. It is always a good day when I see students make connections between our class and the world in which they live.

In the classroom, I begin from the premise that if I’m not excited about the material, it’s doubtful my students will be. I find that students respond to enthusiasm with increased participation and motivation. I regularly bring my own research on informality and forecasting into my classes.

I am a strong advocate for student research and place a high value on mentoring students through the research process. St. Thomas offers a variety of opportunities to support undergraduate research, and I have worked closely with students on independent projects through grants and for credit, collaborated with undergraduate research assistants, and co-authored research with students. While I am particularly interested in topics related to development and forecasting, I am always eager to help students pursue research questions that genuinely interest them. If you are a student at St. Thomas considering independent research, it is never too early to start a conversation with me.