Writer: Sebastian Sanchez, sanch24@nmsu.edu
The Bold Idea Conference, held October 30 at New Mexico State University, continued its mission to inspire innovation, career readiness and entrepreneurial thinking through a series of interactive breakout sessions. Hosted by the Hunt Center for Entrepreneurship at Arrowhead Center, two key workshops focused on practical financial knowledge and professional branding, essential skills for students preparing to enter the workforce.
The first session, Money Moves, was led by Jacqueline Florez, Financial Wellbeing Specialist at Nusenda Credit Union. The workshop guided students through the foundations of personal finance, including loans, insurance, credit scores, budgeting tools and long-term investing. Designed as an open discussion, the session encouraged questions and active participation. Students also engaged in hands-on activities and a giveaway sponsored by the Nusenda Center for Financial Capability.
Florez emphasized Nusenda’s commitment to empowering young adults with financial confidence. With several Nusenda representatives, students, staff and NMSU programs present, the workshop highlighted the Credit Union’s dedication to “The Power of We” and its continued support of student financial well-being.
The second session, Polish Your Profile, was presented by Noah Torres, president of the NMSU American Marketing Association (AMA), alongside AMA faculty advisor Dr. Erin Blaugrund. The workshop offered students a strategic look at enhancing their LinkedIn presence, from crafting strong profile summaries to effectively showcasing experience and accomplishments.
Attendees participated in a networking activity that emphasized authentic relationship-building before sending connection requests. “Workshops like ours give students the space to build real professional confidence, not just skills,” said Torres.
Students expressed the value of combining both personal finance and professional development learning in one conference. “The workshops highlighted the impact of combining financial knowledge with professional growth,” said Anabel Varela, an NMSU MBA candidate who attended both sessions. “This combination equipped me to navigate challenges and pursue my career goals with purpose.”
Together, the Money Moves and Polish Your Profile workshops reinforced the Bold Idea Conference’s overall goal: helping students develop the mindset, tools and confidence to pursue opportunities beyond the classroom. By blending innovation with career preparation, the conference encouraged students to think differently about their futures and take bold steps toward achieving them.