A native of Bear, Del., and Indonesia, Christopher Soelaiman is graduating from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics as an accounting, business analytics, and management information systems triple major.
Soelaiman was nominated for this series by Assistant Professor of MIS, Advisor – MIS Undergrad Edward Hartono, who described Christopher as an “outstanding student.”
In this profile, Soelaiman 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?
Soelaiman: I believe that I have learned more about myself and became more hardworking and dedicated through my time at the University of Delaware.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Soelaiman: The biggest challenge was time management. I was balancing being a triple major student along with working several part-time jobs and living an active lifestyle. I overcame this by prioritizing tasks that I had to complete each day. Over time, I became better at prioritizing my daily tasks and stayed consistent throughout my time in college.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Soelaiman: My favorite signature UD experience was the relationships I built with the students, staff, and professors here. I have met many great people here that I wouldn’t have anywhere else.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Soelaiman: Professor Hartono helped me a lot when I decided to become a triple major student. There are many conflicts and classes required for me to take and he helped me organize my four-year plan so that I do not have to stay another semester or two and ultimately finish in four.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Soelaiman: A “Lifelong Lerner” not only means being an active alumni and attending alumni events, but it also means that my learning journey is not over yet after graduating college. I still have many things to learn and look forward to and I am excited for what awaits me.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Soelaiman: My advice to incoming students is to try new things and push yourselves. Staying open minded leads to very meaningful experiences that you wouldn’t expect.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Soelaiman: My plan after graduation is to work at PwC in the city of Philadelphia as a tax accountant. I am very excited to start my working career and learn more about my industry.