As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ class of 2025, Caroline Baag, honors marketing major with minors in management information systems and advertising from Newark, Del. has thoroughly demonstrated her excellence and dedication during her time at UD.
Baag was nominated for this series by Instructor of Management Cathryn Schenk.
In this profile, Baag 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?
Baag: When I started at UD, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in business but was still unsure of who I was or what I truly wanted out of college. Over the past four years, I’ve not only discovered a career path that excites me, but I’ve also found a stronger sense of self. Through Lerner’s supportive environment, the people I’ve met, and the challenges I’ve faced, I’ve grown into a version of myself that’s more confident and independent, prepared to take on whatever comes next!
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Baag: One of the biggest challenges I faced early on was adjusting to the freedom and responsibility that came with college life. Balancing classes, internships, my business fraternity, and a social life took trial and error, and sometimes meant making tough choices. Over time, I learned how to stay involved without stretching myself too thin, finding a balance that allowed me to fully commit to what mattered most to me.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Baag: My favorite signature UD experience was studying abroad in Paris during the winter session for BUAD391: Seminar on International Management. Exploring a new city while working on a mock trade mission was an unforgettable mix of learning and adventure. What made it even more meaningful was sharing the experience with some of my best friends!
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Baag: One professor who really impacted my UD experience was Ruiqi Wu. She taught my marketing analytics class and made the subject both interesting and approachable. Her support and teaching style helped me build confidence in the material, and I’m so grateful I got the chance to go from being her student to her teaching assistant. My experience as a teaching assistant for both Ruiqi Wu and Yuanchen Su along with their guidance helped me grow and gave me valuable experience in supporting other students!
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Baag: When I think of being a “Lifelong Lerner,” I immediately think of mentorship. So much of my time in Lerner College has been shaped by the mentors around me – the brothers of Delta Sigma Pi, my professors, having an older sister in Lerner, and the constant support from friends and peers. These experiences showed me how impactful guidance and encouragement can be and I recognize I couldn’t have done it without them! As I continue my professional journey, I’m excited to pay it forward and be that kind of mentor for future Lerner students.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Baag: College is a time of self-discovery so my advice is to dive in early! Attend the involvement fair, participate in the events hosted by UD and Lerner, and take opportunities to meet new people. I’m incredibly grateful for the chance to join Delta Sigma Pi, the official business fraternity of Lerner, as a first-semester freshman, and I encourage everyone to find a community that resonates with them!
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Baag: This August I will be joining British Petroleum in its graduate business, sales and marketing rotational program!