Where are you from?
I am from Salisbury, N.C. and graduated from East Rowan High School.
In your opinion, what are the 3 best things about UNC Charlotte?
People.
Location.
Opportunities.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
Top floor of the library.
What was your favorite class that you have taken at UNC Charlotte and why?
Managerial Accounting (ACCT 2), because of Professor Monaghan’s passion for the subject.
What are 3 random things about yourself?
I have a twin sister. If you were wondering, yes, we are fraternal. My girlfriend is also a twin.
I love carpentry work and building things.
My close friends know that I drive the “Gramalon”.
What degree did you pursue and why?
I pursued a double major in Operations and Supply Chain Management and Finance. Having two majors on my resume is a benefit for post-graduation jobs. During my time at SABIC as an intern, exposure to supply chain sparked an interest in me. As I learned how quickly the supply chain field is growing, I found myself seeking options for a double major with the help of my advisor. I hope to use my Finance major as a supplement to my future career in the supply chain world. I believe this is a great fit for my practical, yet creative, problem-solving and analytical mind. This career will allow me to help make improvements and increase profitability for the company for which I work.
Why did you choose the Belk College of Business at UNC Charlotte?
I chose the University of North Carolina at Charlotte for its beautiful campus and great location. I have found that the Belk College of Business not only has wonderful opportunities inside the classroom but also outside of the classroom in the community and the professional world. The Belk College has relationships with employers of the Charlotte area and beyond that other colleges across the state do not. There are opportunities available almost every week for business students to meet, network with, or interview with large companies. Most importantly, students have access to many internships and co-ops that are feasible with short commutes. Because of our location in Charlotte, site tours of companies are more accessible.
What activities were you involved in when not working/studying?
Because I interned 20 hours a week for the last three semesters, free time is rare. However, I was the external vice president for the Business Honors Program for the 2015-2016 school year. This position has furthered my leadership, communication and time management skills. I coordinated 250-300 volunteer opportunities each semester for our members with various non-profit organizations in the Charlotte area. I have been privileged to serve as an ambassador for the new Belk College of Business program, Women in Business. This has allowed me to gain a new perspective and learn about the difficulties women face in the workplace. As I continue through college and into the workforce, I will use this experience to engage in and develop new activities that will advance the progress of professional women. On the weekends, I enjoy going to UNC Charlotte football games, volunteering and visiting my family and friends.
What was the best part of your academic experience?
My internship with SABIC Innovative Plastics has by far been the best learning experience of my academic experience thus far. I interned for one year in the credit department, and I have interned in the supply chain department for the last six months. The Business Honors Program has also been a great part of my academic experience. The connections that I have made through the Business Honors Program helped open the door for these internships. Through both of these experiences, I have met a variety of people and have gained valuable experience that cannot be taught in a classroom.
How would you describe the Belk College of Business to someone who is thinking about applying?
If you are interested in business and want to attend school in North Carolina, the Belk College of Business is for you. The staff of the college work so hard to make opportunities available to students. I have received great professional advice from each professor. Because many professors in the Belk College work in the professional world and teach at the same time, their materials are more beneficial and relatable to the real world. Only you drive your college career. The Belk College of Business gives you everything you need to succeed, but only you as an individual can take advantage of those opportunities.
If you received a scholarship or financial aid, how did it help you?
College would not have been possible for me without receiving financial aid. I have received both grants and loans, but mostly loans. While it is a bit scary to be in so much debt so early in life, I am confident that the investment I am making in my education will help me pay them off quickly. I am doing everything I can to make myself more marketable than my peers. This comforts me when thinking about the debt.
