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ATLANTA — Economics majors Simone Marletta and Eloho Edward recently completed an inspiring three-month mentorship program with two of the nation’s leading economists as members of the DEEP Initiative, a program developed in partnership with the National Association for Business Economics (NABE), the Federal Reserve System and Georgia State University, a DEEP Initiative university academic consortium partner.
These mentorships are a key element of DEEP Initiative (Diversifying and Expanding the Economics Pipeline) partnerships. They help promote the field of economics to undergraduate students by offering opportunities for meaningful connection, career information and mentorship with local business economists. Marletta was paired with Dana M. Peterson, the chief economist at The Conference Board, and Edward with Carlos Herrera, chief economist at The Coca-Cola Company.
“Approaching our first Zoom meeting I didn’t know what to expect, however, I was greeted by Carlos’ warmest smile, instantly affirming that I was in the right place,” Edward writes in a LinkedIn post. “What followed was a profound learning experience, not just in economics but also in life. Hearing Carlos’ perspective as someone who had also embarked on a journey to America for education added a special depth to our discussions.”
The DEEP Initiative was designed to expand and diversify the pipeline of students enrolling in economics programs and ultimately entering the economics profession. To this end, on-campus programming is open to students pursuing any area of study. However, mentorships are offered only to students pursuing an economics major. The initiative’s goal is to increase the number of students studying and entering the job market with an interest and expertise in the field of economics.
“Connecting our undergraduates with the professional world earlier on is a win-win for both our students and our professional community,” said economist Lorenzo Almada, a clinical associate professor in the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies. “Undergraduate mentoring initiatives such as DEEP ignite intellectual curiosity and foster personal growth, laying a strong foundation for future academic and professional success in an increasingly diverse workforce. By guiding students through their formative years, mentors help them navigate challenges, build confidence and appreciate the value of diverse perspectives and experiences. I love seeing the confidence and determination that these mentoring opportunities nurture in our young, bright economists, and I’m very proud of our students.”
Marletta’s mentorship focused on networking, career development, professional growth and improving analytical skills.
“The experience was really insightful,” he said. “I have been able to clear my head about career paths in economics, grad school, etc. I’m so glad I got such an amazing opportunity, and I thank Dr. Almada for his support.”
Upon completion of their mentorships, the students joined other Atlanta student mentees at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, where they toured the vault and received certificates of completion.
It is impossible to downplay the impact these mentors have on budding economists. Edward feels she’s found not only a mentor, but also a lifelong friend.
“I am deeply thankful to my mentor, Carlos,” she posted. “The lessons I gleaned from you will resonate throughout my life. As Carlos often says, ‘Always be optimistic,’ a sentiment I wholeheartedly embrace and carry forward.”