Practice to Profession

In this episode of Practice to Profession, host Dustin Ramsdell speaks with Goldey-Beacom College marketing faculty member Dr. Ashik Shafi about his path to teaching, his international background, and what brought him to Delaware and GBC. Dr. Shafi discusses how GBC’s location, small class sizes, diverse student body, and proximity to major employers help create meaningful learning experiences that prepare students for their careers. He also shares insight into the ever-changing world of marketing and encourages students to believe in themselves, try new things, and use college as a time to discover what they want for their future.

This episode of the Practice to Profession podcast features a conversation with Goldey-Beacom College writing professor Caleb Curtiss, who shares his nontraditional path into higher education and passion for teaching language and creative expression. He discusses how developing a strong relationship with language—through reading, writing, and critical thinking—helps students build confidence, communicate effectively, and prepare for evolving careers. The episode highlights how GBC blends technical skills with personal growth, empowering students to understand themselves, adapt, and succeed in the workforce.

In this episode, career coach, poet, and Goldey-Beacom College faculty member Dana Kinsey shares how storytelling, creativity, and communication skills translate directly into career readiness and professional success. Drawing from her work as Lancaster City Poet Laureate and educator, she highlights the value of experiential learning, confidence, and authentic self-expression in both the classroom and the workplace. Listeners will gain practical insight into how strong communication—and the courage to use your voice—can set you apart in interviews and beyond.

In this episode of the Practice to Profession podcast, host Dustin Ramstow sits down with Goldey-Beacom College faculty member Glenn Orm to discuss his transition from a long career in business to teaching and the value of real-world experience in the classroom. Glenn shares how GBC’s close-knit community creates meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities—from presenting to college leadership to building confidence through research and presentations. He emphasizes a simple but powerful message for students: treat every opportunity as a chance to learn, stay curious, and actively build the skills that lead to career success.

In this episode, Dr. Gerard Hoefling shares how an unconventional, “unplanned” career journey led him from human services to academia—and why embracing uncertainty made all the difference. Through stories of surfing, sailing, and teaching, he explores how risk-taking, humility, and experiential learning shape both personal growth and student success. It’s a conversation about rethinking failure, taking chances, and building confidence in the path from college to career.

In this episode of Practice to Profession, Eric Johnson, Director of Financial Aid and Adjunct Faculty at Goldey-Beacom College, discusses his college and career journey while giving practical advice to current students. Alongside a brief history of Goldey-Beacom, he discusses the value of his economics courses, the larger legacy of what it means to be a professor and working professional in higher education, and what students can do to advance their careers early on.

Professor Brandee El-Attar shares how her personal experiences shaped her holistic approach to working with families in the human services field. As a Family Success Coach, she helps families define their own vision of success and provides training in applied behavior analysis to support their children’s growth. She emphasizes the importance of “putting the human in human services,” reminding students that personal growth and self-awareness are essential to professional impact. By becoming people first and staying open to growth, future professionals can make meaningful contributions to the world.

What really prepares students for life after college? Dr. Scott Glenn, Assistant Professor of Business and Faculty Athletic Representative at Goldey-Beacom College, shares how preparation, adaptability, and teamwork shape student success in and beyond the classroom. Drawing from his experience as an educator, coach, and mentor, he discusses teaching through progression, meeting students where they are, and creating learning environments that value emotional intelligence, collaboration, and real-world application. The conversation explores how internships, community engagement, and hands-on learning help students build confidence, learn from mistakes, and position themselves for meaningful careers at the local, national, and global levels.

What happens when classroom learning is shaped by real clinical experience? Dr. Erin-Lee Kelly, Chair of the Social Sciences Department at Goldey-Beacom College and a licensed professional counselor, shares how discussion-based teaching, real-world cases, and student curiosity drive deeper learning and stronger career readiness. She discusses how psychology students connect theory to practice, explore diverse career paths, and build confidence through experiential learning, certifications, and mentorship. The conversation highlights how flexibility, collaboration, and exposure to professional realities help students make informed decisions about their futures and enter the workforce prepared to succeed.

We're excited to introduce you to our new podcast, Practice to Profession. Take a listen to this quick trailer to learn more about the show.Our first episode will premiere on January 7, with new episodes coming throughout the year.Make sure you subscribe on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode!