As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ Class of 2023, Bridget Joyce, sport management and finance double major from Horsham, Pennsylvania, has demonstrated remarkable dedication and resilience during her time at UD.
Joyce was nominated for this series by UD Associate Professor of Sport Management Timothy DeSchriver, who said, “Bridget is an outstanding student with a 3.9 GPA. She juggles her responsibilities as a student with competing on the women’s track and field team. This year she finished 2nd in the CAA conference indoor championships in the pole vault. ”
In this profile, Joyce shares her favorite UD memories, how she has changed during her time at UD and her plans following graduation.
Lerner: How do you think you have changed from your first semester at UD to now?
Joyce: Since coming into UD my freshman year, I have grown not only professionally, but also as a person. The University of Delaware has helped me find myself and grow into the person that I have always dreamt of being. My professors, coaches, and classmates have guided me to professionally develop, find my passions in life, and gain confidence in myself.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Joyce: My junior year, I had hip labrum repair surgery. Recovery was long, tiring and felt never ending. However, I worked hard with my trainers and coaches to build back my muscle and my mindset. In February, I competed in the first ever Colonial Athletic Association Indoor Track and Field Championships. I was seeded in 11th place with a season best of 3.53 meters (11’7”), but I went into the meet focused and tied my lifetime PR of 3.70 meters (12′ 1.5″, placing 2nd in the conference. A lot of times these setbacks can be blessings in disguise. They make us stronger, both physically and mentally, and motivate us more than ever before. This past year has challenged me in so many different ways, and I wouldn’t change any of it.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Joyce: My favorite signature UD experience is the Homecoming football game. I love seeing all the alumni come back and support the school. It shows the power of the UD community. There are so many people who share the same love of the school, and it gives students a view of the support system they will have for life.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Joyce: “Lifelong Lerner” means that I will always be a part of Lerner until the day I die. I will always be involved with Lerner throughout my career and even after my career. My first step after college in being involved with Lerner is being part of a mentoring program through Lerner, and coming back as an alumni for panels. So many alumni at Lerner have helped me find my passions in business, and I would love to do the exact same for future Lerner students.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Joyce: I would tell incoming freshmen to step out of their comfort zone. College can be scary because it is a different atmosphere, and it is the first time you are treated as an adult. Be the person who stays after a panel to personally talk to the panelist. Be the person to be involved in multiple organizations, and be the person who knows your professors on a personal level.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Joyce: Dr. DeSchriver has made a big impact on my time here at the University of Delaware. I know I can always go to him for advice on my career. There are many times I stayed after class to discuss different sport industries to go into, and different people that he could connect me with in the different industries. Dr. DeSchriver is extremely passionate about Sport Management, and it is clearly seen in his lectures.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Joyce: I am pursuing my masters of finance in Lerner’s 4+1 Program.