Economics Career Day 2025

On November 7, 2025, the UC Santa Barbara Department of Economics welcomed more than 150 students for an inspiring and highly engaging Economics Career Day, now in its fourth year and widely recognized as the signature event of the department’s Career Connection program. 

Throughout the day, students heard candid career stories from accomplished Gaucho alumni, learned how to translate classroom skills into real-world opportunities, and received practical advice on navigating recruiting, networking, and early career decisions. With representation from finance, tech, real estate, sports, and emerging industries, the event highlighted the breadth of pathways available to Economics and Economics & Accounting majors and underscored the power of the Gaucho network in opening doors long after graduation.

Young Alumni Panel: Launching Careers with Purpose and Momentum

The day opened with a dynamic Young Alumni Panel, moderated by Michael Chong ’20 (Cuadrilla Capital). Panelists included:

• Mick Meylor ’19, Vice President & Wealth Advisor, IFC Advisors

• Isabel Steffens ’18, Private Wealth Advisor, Goldman Sachs

• Jack Tannenbaum ’18, Strategy & Operations, Elise AI

Distinguished Alumni Panel: Leadership at the Highest Levels

Immediately following, students heard from a powerhouse Distinguished Alumni Panel, moderated by Tom Scrivener ’93, Chief Operating Executive at Bank of America. Panelists included:

• Jorge Avalos ’98, CFO & Minority Owner, ARC Document Solutions

• Lisa Cummins Dulchinos ’91, CFO, Ayar Labs

• Matt Elijah ’09, Vice President of Basketball Strategy, LA Clippers

• Steve Emberland ’91, Vice President, Accounting and Treasurer, AG1

• Kevin Kaseff ’82, Founder & President, Titan Real Estate Investment Group

• Henry Nivens ’72, Principal, NALS Apartment Homes

Economics Career Day has rapidly become the cornerstone event of the department’s professional development ecosystem. The program combines panel discussions, one-on-one résumé reviews, mentoring, and a networking reception—giving students confidence, insight, and industry exposure.

Get Involved

We look forward to building even more opportunities for students and alumni to connect. Alumni interested in participating in future programs are encouraged to contact Courtney Jerge at courtneyjerge@ucsb.edu.