It’s been awhile since faculty interviews have graced the pages of the Thoma, so this year we decided to bring them back. Questions are inspired by 2007 Thoma staff writer, Jessica Liss.
Dr. Mihal is a Pennsylvania native who earned her B.A. in Mathematics and Economics from Albright College. She went on to attend Fordham University and graduated with both her MA and PhD in Economics. During her time at Fordham, she was awarded the prestigious honor of teaching fellow of the year. Here on STAC’s campus, Dr. Mihal is well known as an Assistant Professor of Economics who dedicates her time to research, business club, and Delta Mu Delta.
1. When did you start working at STAC, and what is the best part about your job?
I started at STAC 6 years ago – the fall of 2009. The best part is definitely the amazing people I get to work with every day – faculty colleagues and students.
2. What was your favorite and least favorite class in college?
My favorite class in college was anything in economics and lets just say that Spanish was not my strongest subject!
3. Favorite college memory?
Senior Week/Graduation weekend. Such a great celebration of four fantastic years!
4. First Job?
My first job was working in the Accounting Department at my family’s manufacturing company when I was 14.
5. Most used app?
I’m probably on Instagram, Facebook, and Bloomberg Business the most; but my guilty pleasure is E! Online.
6. You just sold your tech start up for 10 million dollars! What’s the first thing you do with the money?
Buy a beach house!
7. Out of all the classes you teach, do you have a favorite?
I like teaching all of my classes for different reasons. For example, I enjoy teaching the principles courses because I get to see students transform their opinion about the course (usually liking it much more than they thought they would!); but, I also love teaching any of the upper level courses because the students know what to expect and they are very motivated and up for the challenge that I put forth.
8.If someone made a movie about your life, which actress would you pick to play you?
Amy Adams or Juliana Margulies.
9. Any hobbies that people don’t know you have?
I love to cook and entertain. I enjoy hosting holidays, or just having friends over.
10. Current movie, TV, or music obsessions you want to mention?
OITNB (just finishing up season 3) and recently watched The West Wing (all 7 seasons and I highly recommend). As for music I love classic rock and I am a huge DMB fan.
11. If you were a candy, what candy would you be?
Starbursts! Cause who wouldn’t want to be?
12. Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Never be afraid to ask questions.
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