Scott Wolla, MAEEE class of 2009, is leading efforts to modernize the teaching of monetary policy. He currently serves as economic education officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. In 2019, he began collaborating with economists from the Federal Reserve Board of Governors to update classroom materials on monetary policy in light of changes made in 2008. His work has received recognition from major outlets, including The New York Times, The Economist and NPR. He shared what he learned from the MAEEE experience and how it has shaped his professional career.
What exciting news or accomplishments have you been a part of?
In 2019, I started collaborating with an economist from the Federal Reserve Board of Governors to address gaps in how monetary policy was being taught. Our work, which has involved textbook authors, publishers, and the College Board, has been recognized by The New York Times, The Economist, and NPR for helping modernize the teaching of monetary policy.
Why is this news valuable to your colleagues or educators considering the MAEEE program?
This shows that MAEEE graduates are at the forefront of economic education. By working with policymakers and thought leaders, I’ve been able to shape the future of how economic concepts are taught at the national level.
What did you learn through your MAEEE experience that you wouldn’t have learned anywhere else?
The MAEEE program’s integration of content mastery and pedagogy was invaluable. Many programs focus on one or the other, but the MAEEE program offers a holistic approach that ensures you have both deep subject knowledge and effective teaching strategies.
Describe an important connection you have made through your graduate program.
I continue to stay connected with several of my classmates from the program, collaborating on writing projects, presentations, and workshops. Additionally, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside MAEEE graduates from other cohorts as teammates on the economic education team at the St. Louis Fed.
If you were to describe your classmates in one word, what would that be and why?
Engaged. The program attracts educators who are passionate about improving economic education and are committed to learning.
The MAEEE graduate program helped me become…
A better teacher, writer, and colleague.
What piece(s) of advice would you give to current MAEEE students or prospective applicants?
To prospective students: ‘Just do it!’ You won’t regret it. To current students: stay the course and take every opportunity to learn as much as you can along the way.