Students at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics have almost 30 unique student groups that they can choose to join. In each installment of this series, an executive member of one of these student groups will share their first-hand experience choosing, participating in and eventually leading their group.
Arynn Hernandez, Class of 2022 finance major, is the president of the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) at the Lerner College. Hernandez shared why she joined ALPFA, what makes this group unique and more!
When and why did you choose to join this student group?
Hernandez: I became president in my freshman year because I wanted to connect with the other Latinos in the business school with a supportive and protective environment that would strengthen our networking skills.
What is the mission of your student group?
Hernandez: We aim to create a professional networking environment where minorities are the focus, where they are taught and can practice business skills.
What is your best memory from this student group?
Hernandez: My favorite memory was hosting our first guest speaker, Rogelio from Barclays. We had a great turnout and excellent conversation about being a minority in banking.
What is unique about your student group?
Hernandez: We are a supportive group where we can openly discuss the difficulties of getting into college, fitting in and getting the recruiters’ attention as minorities. This is almost a beginner’s class to professionalism and I really appreciate the relationships I have established, as well as creating and building our curriculum with my board members.
What has been your proudest moment leading your student group?
Hernandez: My proudest moment leading my group must have been the first meeting we held last semester. After lots of planning and meetings, we had our room reserved and we wrote “Welcome New ALPFA Members!” on the board. We were so excited as freshman to be holding our first executive board positions and finally hosting a meeting.
What are your goals for the future of your student group?
Hernandez: Our goals are first to grow and to get more interest from the Latinos in the business school. Another goal is to eventually include other majors and focusing on multiple majors per meeting.
How has your student group helped you grow?
Hernandez: My group has strengthened my leadership skills, allowed me to make many wonderful connections and inspired me to do more for my community.
ALPFA has around 100 students on its email list and meets on Tuesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 PM at Ewing 204.