Here at the Toledo Chamber, we're proud to house the Toledo Small Business Development Center, which every day oversees the important task of supporting our region's small business community. Recently, Financial Counselor Paula Avila-Palomares joined the team, ready to provide financial guidance and her expertise to the backbone of the Toledo Region: small businesses. While we hope you meet Paula at one of our many upcoming events, you can get to know her a little bit through this Q&A.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Hi! My name is Paula, I am an economist from Mexico City but lived in Ann Arbor for the past four years. I graduated with a dual master’s degree in economics and public affairs from the University of Michigan, where I also worked for a little over two years as Research Associate for the Great Lakes Trade Adjustment Assistance Center at the university’s Economic Growth Institute.
What brought you to the Chamber? What inspired you to pursue the job?
After resuming my practical training as a graduate student at GLTAAC, I knew I wanted to work for an organization where people felt passionate about contributing toward economic development.
What do you hope to accomplish in your role at the Chamber?
Help tackle barriers for underserved communities’ economic growth and development; get to know the dynamics of everyday business in the SME sphere, which will hopefully help me become a better economic development professional.
What do you anticipate enjoying most in your role at the Chamber/what do you look forward to doing in your role?
The dynamism within the SBDC team and collaborating with each of its members!
What is your proudest career achievement?
Having no regrets about choosing Economics as a career path.
And now some personal questions...
Tell us a fun fact about yourself, or tell us about a unique talent you have.
I started practicing ballet at 3 years old and only stopped four years ago when I moved to Michigan for grad school.
What is your favorite book or movie?
Book: Too many, but the first that comes to mind is Shadow of the Wind by Barceloni author Carlos Ruiz Zafon. Movie: Probably The Departed.
What is your favorite meal or food?
Mexican, Middle Eastern and Asian – including Southeast Asian.
Tell us about some of your favorite hobbies or things you’re passionate about.
I love outdoor sports: running, kayaking, rafting, etc. I am passionate about public policy, women's affairs, economic policy, as well as fine arts (ballet for sure) and Hispanic literature.
Hi! My name is Paula, I am an economist from Mexico City but lived in Ann Arbor for the past four years. I graduated with a dual master’s degree in economics and public affairs from the University of Michigan, where I also worked for a little over two years as Research Associate for the Great Lakes Trade Adjustment Assistance Center at the university’s Economic Growth Institute.
What brought you to the Chamber? What inspired you to pursue the job?
After resuming my practical training as a graduate student at GLTAAC, I knew I wanted to work for an organization where people felt passionate about contributing toward economic development.
What do you hope to accomplish in your role at the Chamber?
Help tackle barriers for underserved communities’ economic growth and development; get to know the dynamics of everyday business in the SME sphere, which will hopefully help me become a better economic development professional.
What do you anticipate enjoying most in your role at the Chamber/what do you look forward to doing in your role?
The dynamism within the SBDC team and collaborating with each of its members!
What is your proudest career achievement?
Having no regrets about choosing Economics as a career path.
And now some personal questions...
Tell us a fun fact about yourself, or tell us about a unique talent you have.
I started practicing ballet at 3 years old and only stopped four years ago when I moved to Michigan for grad school.
What is your favorite book or movie?
Book: Too many, but the first that comes to mind is Shadow of the Wind by Barceloni author Carlos Ruiz Zafon. Movie: Probably The Departed.
What is your favorite meal or food?
Mexican, Middle Eastern and Asian – including Southeast Asian.
Tell us about some of your favorite hobbies or things you’re passionate about.
I love outdoor sports: running, kayaking, rafting, etc. I am passionate about public policy, women's affairs, economic policy, as well as fine arts (ballet for sure) and Hispanic literature.
To learn more about the Toledo Small Business Development Center, click here. Or, to contact Paula Avila-Palomares regarding small business counseling, send her an email at paula.avila@toledochamber.com.
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