Where Are They Now? With Brooklyn Stephens

New podcast you do not want to miss

I am so excited to share our latest episode of Economics with Dr. A podcast! We had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Brooklyn Stephens, an NKU Economics alumna, Haile Research Fellow, adjunct professor, and MBA graduate from the University of Kentucky.

In this conversation, Brooklyn opens up about her journey, sharing both the triumphs and the challenges she faced along the way. She takes us back to her most memorable experience as a Haile Research Fellow, presenting at the Kentucky Economic Association conference while navigating personal difficulties, and how the support from Haile College of Business shaped her approach to leadership and teaching.

Brooklyn's story is a testament to resilience and growth. She shares how her research experience sharpened her critical thinking, communication, and presentation skills, which have proven instrumental in her career. We also delve into her remarkable collaboration with Dr. A on an international consulting project and her pride when her research paper was published in November 2023.

The episode takes an honest look at the decision-making process behind pursuing an MBA and the value of stepping out of your comfort zone. Brooklyn's passion for teaching shines through as she discusses her experience as an adjunct professor at NKU, inspiring students to become curious and engaged learners.

For those of you who may be facing personal challenges while navigating your academic journey, Brooklyn's advice on building connections with faculty and being open about your circumstances is invaluable. She also addresses the sometimes daunting experience of making career decisions in your twenties and the power of having a supportive network to lean on.

This episode is a treasure trove of insights, from leveraging research experience and sharing diverse student stories to balancing personal challenges with academic and professional responsibilities and prioritizing personal well-being.

I promise you, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Brooklyn's story is one of inspiration, authenticity, and the power of community.

I am excited to hear your thoughts on this episode.

-Dr. A

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 challenging 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 the 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