In spring 2025, the Fed Challenge Team traveled to Washington D.C. L:R Josh Tragge, Mason Hambley, Antonio Doblas-Madrid, Tomas Feldmann Tonelli and Benjamin Strzyzewski.
On February 7, 2025, four Michigan State University students traveled to Washington, D.C. to take part in the second annual Fed Challenge Open House at the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. The group—Mason Hambley, Benjamin Strzyzewski, Tomas Feldmann Tonelli, and Josh Tragge—had all competed in the 2024 College Fed Challenge, a nationwide academic competition focused on analyzing macroeconomic conditions and formulating monetary policy recommendations.
Hosted at the Federal Reserve’s William McChesney Martin Building, the Open House offered a rare opportunity for talented and motivated Fed Challenge teams to engage with Federal Reserve staff, competition judges, and fellow students from across the country. The day featured networking sessions, breakout discussions, and an address by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, who spoke to students about the importance of their work and the value of public service.
“Participating in the Fed Challenge was the most rewarding and enriching experience I’ve had so far at MSU,” said Tomas Feldmann Tonelli. “It helped me build a deeper understanding of economics, improve my communication, and even sharpen my coding skills. The Open House was a great way to meet other participants and prepare for future competitions. I’m excited to stay involved and help others who share an interest in monetary policy.”
The College Fed Challenge encourages students to take on the role of central bankers, conducting in-depth research and presenting policy recommendations under real-world conditions. MSU has developed a strong presence in the competition over the years, advancing to the Chicago District finals on multiple occasions and earning a spot at the national level in 2020. Dr. Antonio Doblas-Madrid, associate professor of economics, has advised the team since 2020 and leads MSU’s Fed Challenge course, EC332, which supports students throughout their preparation.
Mason Hambley reflected on the personal and professional growth that came from participating.
“The College Fed Challenge gave me the chance to really strengthen my public speaking and learn how to construct a persuasive argument,” he said. “Being able to present a concise, compelling proposal is a skill I’ll take with me long after college. And attending the Open House was amazing—networking with Fed staff, other students, and even briefly meeting Chair Powell was a dream come true for someone passionate about monetary policy.”
For Benjamin Strzyzewski, the trip to Washington was both humbling and inspiring.
“Visiting the capital and engaging with brilliant minds at the Federal Reserve was an honor,” he said. “Seeing the level of preparation and research behind the Fed’s dual mandate gave me a whole new appreciation for what they do. It’s an experience that will stick with me throughout my studies and into my career.”
While in Washington, the team also took time to explore the city’s historical landmarks, including the U.S. Treasury, the White House and the National Mall—adding a memorable cultural experience to the academic journey.
“Events like the Fed Challenge Open House help students connect the classroom to the real world. It was an incredible way to celebrate the team’s dedication and gain inspiration for the future,” Dr. Doblas-Madrid said.
Students interested in joining the MSU Fed Challenge team can learn more at: https://sites.google.com/view/tonydoblasmadrid/msu-fed-challenge.
To help support student travel and future participation, consider contributing to the MSU Fed Challenge fund: https://givingto.msu.edu/gift/?sid=17513.
By Antonio Doblas-Madrid, Ph.D.