Senior Lecturer, Department of Economics
Since joining UCF in 2003, Senior Lecturer Nora Underwood-Caputo has watched the University evolve while remaining a steady and supportive presence in the Department of Economics. With a passion for student engagement and mentorship, she believes learning thrives through interaction … whether it’s discussing course concepts, career goals, or life after graduation. Known for her open-door policy and approachable style, she takes pride in helping students see the relevance of economics in their everyday decisions. Outside the classroom, she enjoys cooking, hosting dinner parties, traveling through Europe, and soaking up the sun at the beach all with the same enthusiasm she brings to her teaching.
How long have you been a Knight? Since fall 2003
What is your favorite UCF memory? Looking back on how the university has grown and changed. Online learning has certainly taken over.
What do you love about what you do? Engaging with students. As my syllabus has always said “learning is an interactive process.” Any time spent conversing with students about course content, their major, or what they want to do after UCF is rewarding. Being available to mentor students is very rewarding. My door is always open.
What do you find most exciting or rewarding about your field of study? Economics is about managing scarce resources. Many students don’t like economics because it can be challenging. Economics is everywhere around us and we all use economic principles in our daily decision making. Getting students to recognize the importance of the subject is rewarding.
When you’re not in the classroom, what can we find you doing? I love to cook and throw dinner parties. I love Les Mills on demand. The beach is a favorite place and European travel is a favorite activity.
What is a little known fact about you? I went to high school in London, England.
What is your advice for Business Knights? Take advantage of these last few years of school. Get involved in school activities, build connections with fellow students, and talk to your professors. You have your entire life to work.