In the first 10 days of the new presidential administration, threats of stiff tariffs sent reverberations across the globe; a directive freezing trillions of dollars for federal funding was sent and rescinded; and actions to reduce the federal workforce were underway. Amid this breaking news, Old Dominion University economists Bob McNab, Ph.D., and Vinod Agarwal, Ph.D., shared their economic projections at the 30th anniversary of the Dragas Center for Economic Analysis and Policy’s Annual Economic Forecast held Jan. 29 in the Big Blue Room at Chartway Arena.

Congratulations to Charles Walls, who earned his Master of Public Administration degree from the Strome College of Business in 2019. He serves as vice president of player personnel for the Super Bowl-bound Philadelphia Eagles, who take on the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday in Super Bowl LIX. 

In 2024, Walls was promoted to vice president of player personnel after joining the Eagles as director of player personnel in 2022. His journey includes time as a national scout for the Cleveland Browns (2020-22) and a rise through the ranks of the Green Bay Packers' scouting department from 2013-2020.

Walls also joined the executive board of National Football Scouting (NFS) in 2023, helping evaluate college players and organizing the NFL Scouting Combine.

A proud ODU alumnus, Walls earned his degrees in sports management and public administration after playing offensive line and serving as a coach for the Monarchs. He also gained professional experience as an intern for Congressman Randy Forbes in 2013.

Strong communication skills are essential for business students, whether engaging in classroom discussions, networking, or corresponding with professors. How you communicate is important for academic success and professional reputation.

Here’s how to do it right: 

Craft Professional Emails

Email is often the first point of contact with professors, recruiters, and colleagues. According to Harvard Business Review, a clear and concise subject line, proper salutation, and well-structured body increase the likelihood of a response (HBR, 2023). Keep emails professional by avoiding slang, proofreading for errors, and using a respectful closing. 

Engage Effectively in Class and Online

Active participation in discussions—both in person and on learning platforms—demonstrates leadership and critical thinking. A LinkedIn study found that students who engage in academic discussions tend to build stronger professional networks (LinkedIn, 2022). In virtual discussions, avoid short, one-word responses; instead, contribute thoughtfully and reference course materials to add value.

Use AI Responsibly in Communication

With tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly becoming common, students must use AI ethically. The Wall Street Journal advises that AI can enhance clarity but should not replace original thinking (WSJ, 2023). Always review AI-generated content for accuracy and ensure it aligns with academic integrity guidelines and your professor’s guidance. 

Adapt Your Communication Style for Different Audiences

Effective communication isn’t one-size-fits-all. A Forbes report highlights the importance of adjusting tone and formality based on the situation (Forbes, 2023). A casual message may work in a group chat, but a potential employer expects professionalism. Understanding when to be formal or conversational can strengthen your relationships and credibility.

By mastering these communication strategies, business students can build credibility, enhance relationships, and set themselves up for success both in school and beyond.

Generative AI was used in the creation of this article.