A native of Wilmington, Delaware, Farzana Hossain graduated from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics as a finance and management information systems double major.
Hossain was nominated for this series by Assistant Professor of Finance Howland Redding, who said, “Farzana is an academic machine and defines perfection. She has yet to miss a class and exhibits strong leadership skills inside my classroom. Farzana has earned the highest score in real estate finance this academic year out of a combined 74 students. She also takes advantage of UD opportunities like the finance trip to ULI Philadelphia. I have no doubt Farzana will continue her pattern of success in the future and am excited to see what she achieves next.”
In this profile, Hossain 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?
Hossain: When I first arrived at the University of Delaware, I was confused about my future. I had enrolled as a biology major but soon realized it wasn’t for me. I switched to finance but still felt unsure if I’d made the right choice. Throughout my four years as a Lerner student, my leadership skills grew and I became more confident in myself. The journey throughout these four years wasn’t always easy, but it pushed me to build resilience and trust my instincts. My time at UD has taught me valuable lessons that go beyond academics, and I now feel ready to step into the next chapter of my life.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Hossain: Starting college during the pandemic presented unique challenges. With classes being held online, I had to adapt to a new way of learning, which wasn’t always easy. Navigating virtual classrooms and online platforms was a little tricky. Beyond this, it was also difficult to build connections with my peers. To overcome this disconnection, I attended various coffee-chats and networking events that were organized by the Lerner College. These virtual gatherings allowed me to meet new people and create a sense of community.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Hossain: Although I wasn’t able to attend the Twilight Induction Ceremony my freshman year, I attended it with my sister who just started at UD. For me, attending this ceremony in my senior year was like coming full circle. It felt special to share this moment with my sister, knowing that she was just beginning her UD journey as I was nearing the end of mine.
Another highlight of my time at UD was participating in the Lerner Executive Mentoring Program. My mentor was instrumental in guiding me through my academic and career choices. The mentorship I received helped me refine my goals and gave me the confidence to pursue them.
Living on campus was also among my favorite UD experiences, filled with countless memorable moments!
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience? If so, who and how?
Hossain: There are several professors who had a significant impact on my UD experience. I was fortunate to have incredible professors in both my MIS and finance courses who are very passionate and enthusiastic about their respective fields. They brought real-world experiences into the classroom which made the coursework more engaging.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Hossain: Being a “Lifelong Lerner” means that learning doesn’t stop with a degree. It means always being open to new ideas, skills, and experiences, and recognizing that you are part of a larger network. Even after graduation, you are still a part of the Lerner family. During one of my internships, I was able to connect with a UD alumnus who had graduated many years ago, which demonstrated the lasting bonds that the Lerner community creates. Throughout my time at UD, I attended several events held by the Lerner College and the Women in Finance student organization, where several alumni shared their stories and offered invaluable advice. I hope to do the same and give back to others in the Lerner community.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Hossain: My advice to incoming freshmen is to take advantage of all the clubs and student organizations the university has to offer. College is not just about academics, it’s also a time to explore your interests, meet new people, and build a network of friends and mentors. Try new things, don’t be afraid to attend office hours, and enjoy the moment. Four years goes by really quick!
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Hossain: In August, I will be starting as a tech assurance associate at KPMG in the Philly office!