New faculty Q&A: August Hardy

August Hardy

After earning an economics degree from the University of Virginia, August Hardy was unsure of his next move—until a friend suggested tutoring.

“I fell in love with teaching in small groups,” he said. “Combining teaching and economics seemed like a no-brainer, so I applied for grad school.” 

Now, with a PhD from George Mason University and several years of teaching experience at Sweet Briar College, Hardy has joined Randolph’s faculty as an assistant professor of economics.

How did you first become interested in economics?

My interest in economics began in Ken Elzinga’s Principles course at UVA. My eyes were opened to a whole new way of seeing the world, and I have been hooked ever since.

Describe your teaching style. What can students expect in your classes?

In the classroom, I do everything I can to make economics relevant to students. We apply economic theory to current events, politics, sports, and personal decisions. Students can expect to talk, to be engaged, and to have their perspectives challenged.

What attracted you to the job at Randolph?

I’m excited to teach at Randolph because of the small class sizes, the close community, and the sports. The focus that TAKE2 enables will allow my students and me to go deeper into our course material than possible anywhere else.

What classes are you teaching this fall?

I am teaching Principles of Microeconomics, Microeconomic Theory, and Sports Economics. 

What are your initial impressions of Randolph and its students?

Randolph seems to be a friendly place where everyone is known. I’ve met lots of great people so far. As I’ve seen students move in and start prepping for the fall, I can definitely see the drive that makes students here special.

What do you like to do outside of the classroom as far as hobbies or other activities?

When I’m not spending time as a dad (4-year-old daughter, 9-month-old son), I climb downtown at Rise Up, play board games and MTG with friends, and win trivia at Rivermont Pizza.