As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ class of 2025, Danielle Berman, management information systems major from Lower Merion, Pa. has thoroughly demonstrated her excellence and dedication during her time at UD.
Berman was nominated for this series by Assistant Director – Career Services Center Minda Watson, who said, “Danielle is an unbelievably exemplary individual and is an exceptional representative of what Lerner strives for our students to be. It has been my privilege and honor to work with and learn from her.”
In this profile, Berman 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?
Berman: When I first came to UD, I felt completely lost. I didn’t have a clear direction for what I wanted to do career-wise, and it was honestly overwhelming trying to figure it all out. But over time, that uncertainty turned into motivation. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone, started building strong leadership skills, and gained the confidence to pursue and accomplish goals I once thought were out of reach. I made it a habit to strive to be just 1% better every day, and that mindset has truly shaped who I am now. I took every opportunity to network with upperclassmen, faculty, and UD alumni, learning from their experiences and using their guidance to help me find my passion. Now, I’m proud to say I’ve secured a position at my dream firm – something that felt impossible when I first started. The growth I’ve experienced from that first semester to now is something I’m incredibly grateful for.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Berman: One of the biggest challenges I faced during my college experience was my freshman year. I didn’t make close friends right away and really struggled to feel like I belonged at UD. On top of that, I lost a loved one during that time, which was incredibly hard. I ended up going home most weekends, and I felt like I was missing out on a lot of the college experience. There were moments when I seriously considered transferring – I just didn’t feel connected. But I made the decision to stay and give it another shot. I rushed to a sorority in the spring, and that completely changed things for me. I instantly felt a strong sense of community and support, and from there, everything started to fall into place. It taught me that things can turn around if you give yourself time and stay open to new experiences.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Berman: My favorite signature UD experience was rushing Alpha Kappa Psi, the professional business fraternity, during my freshman fall semester. It was truly instrumental in both my personal and professional growth. Through AKPsi, I formed friendships that I know will last a lifetime, and I was introduced to a network of driven, like-minded individuals who constantly motivate me to become the best version of myself. The experience taught me the importance of networking, professionalism, and the value of surrounding yourself with people who push you to grow. Looking back, joining AKPsi was one of the most impactful decisions I made at UD.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Berman: One of the most impactful people in my UD experience has been Minda Watson. I first met her during my sophomore year when I was seeking career advice, and she immediately made a lasting impression. She guided me through the process of standing out to recruiters and helped me strengthen my professional presence. Thanks to her support and insight, I soon received an internship offer. But our relationship grew far beyond just career coaching – Minda became more than a mentor to me; I see her as a mother figure and one of my biggest supporters. Her belief in me and her constant encouragement inspire me to grow every single day. I was fortunate to serve as her BUAD110 TA for two years, which was an incredibly rewarding experience. Minda has had a profound, positive impact on my life, and I know I’m not alone – every student who has had the chance to work with her feels the same way.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Berman: To me, being a “Lifelong Lerner” means more than just carrying the education I received at UD – it means fully embracing the University’s core values in everything I do. It’s about consistently seeking opportunities to learn and grow, both personally and professionally, long after graduation. But most importantly, it’s about giving back – whether that’s by mentoring others, supporting future Blue Hens, or using what I’ve learned to make a positive impact. Being a Lifelong Lerner means I will proudly represent UD and the Lerner College community for years to come.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Berman: The biggest advice I would give to incoming freshmen is to understand that the path to success is not linear – and that’s okay. Don’t panic if you don’t have everything figured out right away. Everything truly happens for a reason, and sometimes the moments that feel the most uncertain lead to the greatest growth. Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, even if it feels outside your comfort zone. Embrace challenges – they’re often the best chances to learn and grow, both personally and professionally. And most importantly, start networking the moment you step on campus. Connect with upperclassmen, professors, and alumni – those relationships can open doors you never expected and will absolutely pay off in the long run.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Berman: Working as an advisory associate at KPMG in the financial risk – regulatory & compliance sector.