Students at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics have a diverse range of nearly 30 student-led groups on campus, offering students opportunities to connect, engage and grow in their personal and professional interests.
Shayna Durkin, Class of 2023 marketing and management double major with a minor in event management, is the president of the Blue Hen Marketing Club (BHMC) at Lerner College. Durkin shared why she joined BHMC, what makes this group stand out and how to get involved!
Lerner: When and why did you choose to join this student group?
Durkin: I joined BHMC my freshman year and have held various leadership positions during my years of involvement. I joined this RSO in order to grow as a student and professional and to be a part of a supportive community passionate about marketing and professionalism.
Lerner: When and where does your student group meet and approximately how many members do you have?
Durkin: BHMC has about 200 registered members, making it one of the largest RSOs in Lerner. We meet about three times a month on and near campus for speaker events, professional development workshops, and coffee chats.
Lerner: What is the mission/goal of your student group?
Durkin: As a registered student organization at UD and in affiliation with the American Marketing Association, we aim to unite students with other peers, faculty, and professionals, creating a productive atmosphere to develop professionalism, networking skills, and more beyond college.
Lerner: What is your best memory or proudest moment from this student group?
Durkin: One of my best memories is attending the annual BHMC freshman welcome party the fall of my freshman year. This event welcomes freshman Lerner students to campus, includes a mini presentation about getting involved with BHMC, and offers a relaxed, social environment for meeting other business students. It was a great introduction to the club and Lerner.
Lerner: What is unique about your student group?
Durkin: We accept all years and majors! You do not have to be a marketing or business major— all are welcome to join and explore marketing and professional interests from as early as your first semester at UD. The easiest way for new members to get involved is to visit us at involvement fairs or by emailing bluehenmarketingclub@gmail.com to be added to our mailing list! Being on our mailing list helps members stay informed about upcoming events and opportunities.
Lerner: What are your goals for the future of your student group?
Durkin: In the future, I hope that BHMC offers a wider variety of events, including off campus trips. As a college affiliate of the American Marketing Association, I also hope to increase our AMA involvement by participating in more student marketing competitions and attending the International Collegiate Conference.
Lerner: How has your student group helped you grow, personally or professionally?
Durkin: BHMC has allowed me to grow my marketing knowledge outside of the classroom, develop my professional presence, and gain leadership experience.
Lerner: Does your group have any social media handles?
Instagram: @bhmarketingclub
Lerner: Does your group have a website?
https://bluehenmarketingclub.wixsite.com/bhmc
Lerner: Is there any additional information regarding your student group that you believe has not been covered? Please feel free to share.
Durkin: Our organization fosters connections between students, faculty, and professionals who share an interest in marketing and practicing professionalism. BHMC’s events and resources also give members the opportunity to develop a variety of skills and relationships that they can carry with them beyond college.