👩🏽‍🏫 A Little About Me I’m an engaging, student-centered economics faculty member with over 15+ years of experience teaching economics, finance, macro‑ and micro‑economics, econometrics, and global studies at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Teaching is truly one of my passions, and I love creating learning environments where students feel supported, encouraged, and inspired. I currently teach economics courses for William & Mary, Southern New Hampshire University, and Worcester State University, with a strong focus on interactive and accessible online learning. I’ve worked with platforms like Canvas, Brightspace, MindTap, Blackboard Ultra, and HBR simulations. This is my first year teaching with GCU, so if you’re new here too, feel free to mention it in your introduction—we’ll be learning some new things together! My academic journey includes a PhD in Economics from Clark University, where I specialized in International Trade & Finance, Econometrics, Macroeconomics, and Monetary Policy. Over the years, I’ve presented research around the world, published in international journals, and contributed insights as a subject matter expert to media outlets such as Business Insider and NH Journal. Beyond academia, community engagement is an important part of my life. I serve as the Director of Community and Cultural Affairs for the Indian Diaspora Council and as a mentor for the Queens General Assembly under the Queens Borough President, supporting initiatives that strengthen cultural understanding and community connection across New York City. Something more personal: I’ve also spent time in India working on farms, where I helped care for cows and learned firsthand about sustainable agriculture and rural community life. Those experiences humbled me, grounded me, and reminded me of the importance of compassion, patience, and service—values I try to bring into my teaching every day. Above all, I’m committed to fostering a warm, inclusive, and intellectually engaging classroom where every learner feels valued and supported. I’m excited to learn with you and see what we can accomplish together. If you’d like to connect professionally, feel free to add me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-bissessar