A native of Middletown, Del., Brian Dill graduated from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics with a master’s of science in international business.
Dill was nominated for this series by Academic Program Coordinator Colleen Giesing who commemorated him on his high GPA and academic achievements during his time at UD.
In this profile, Dill shares his favorite UD memories, how he has changed during his time at UD and his plans following graduation.
Lerner: How do you think you have changed from your first semester at UD to now?
Dill: Looking back at my UD journey, I have gained confidence that has enabled personal and professional growth. When I began my master’s degree, I had the passion and drive to succeed but was unaware of the information and resources at my disposal. Through attending workshops, seminars and using the Lerner Career Services resources, I have become a member of the Lerner Executive Mentor Program and have gained international trade experience at the World Trade Center Delaware. Taking advantage of these opportunities was initially daunting, but I have built leadership skills applicable to the rest of my career.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Dill: The biggest challenge I faced was in my first graduate course, where I did not perform well on an exam. I was initially so hard on myself, and I quickly doubted if I was capable of excelling at a graduate level. However, I met with my professor for additional mentoring, learned from my mistakes, and eventually finished with an A in the course. Taking the risk and showing my desire to grow made all the difference. If I did not take that chance and be vulnerable, I would not have gained the resilience to overcome that challenge.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Dill: For most of my master’s program, I was taking courses online to align with my work schedule but would frequently visit Newark. As a member of the Lerner Executive Mentoring Program, I loved getting to meet with my mentor in-person at the Mentor Appreciation Dinner. I also regularly visited the UD Star Campus for work-related events, and would even run into fellow grad students and mentors. Every so often, I would even see people affiliated with the World Trade Center Delaware on campus, which was a nice surprise!
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Dill: There are so many Lerner professors and staff members who have made my time at UD special. I am thankful that Colleen Giesing nominated me to be a Lifelong Lerner, as she was helpful in beginning my journey at UD. My first professor, Dr. Naisheng Yao, was so motivating and helpful in guiding me through his course, and I would not have succeeded without him. Rob Thomas, my Lerner Executive Mentor, was amazing at helping connect me with policy officials in the Delaware area, which eventually led to my internship with the World Trade Center Delaware. There are so many amazing people at Lerner that can help shape your career goals, improve your networking and do anything to help you.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Dill: Being a “Lifelong Lerner” means more than a symbol of achievement – it represents continuous learning and growth in the Delaware community. I have always taken pride in continuously learning and expanding my knowledge, and I hope to instill that passion into others. My time at the University of Delaware has taught me that there is always room for growth, no matter what phase of life you are in. Being a “Lifelong Lerner” has given me the opportunity to grow in ways that are unimaginable.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming students to make the most out of their college experience?
Dill: Even if you are not in the field of business, “branding” yourself is key in making valuable personal and professional connections. Showcasing what unique attributes, skills and qualities that define your character is how you build a strong community of individuals that will support you. By remaining authentic and having a strong work ethic, I have been able to open doors personally and professionally that I could not have imagined a year ago.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Dill: After graduation, I am quite fortunate to embark on new personal and professional journeys. The day after graduation, I will be flying to Portugal where I will begin a multi-week backpacking journey across Europe. I have always had a passion for exploring new cultures, foods and places, and I am super excited to acquire new worldly knowledge! After returning home, I am starting a position as an analyst in the Global Finance and Business Management Program at JPMorgan Chase. I am excited to take the skills I have acquired in global compliance and international trade and translate them into my new role.