As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics Class of 2023, Geeta Chandaluri, an honors finance and business analytics double major from Celina, Texas, has demonstrated remarkable dedication and resilience during her time at UD.
Chandaluri was nominated for this series by UD Academic Advisor Carrie Baldwin, who said, “Geeta came into UD as a freshman with a clear understanding of what it is that she wanted to do.She enjoys sharing her experiences with the Blue Hen Investment Club and internships at M&T Bank and TD Securities at UD Decision Days.”
In this profile, Chandaluri 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?
Chandaluri: I went through a great journey while I was at UD. When I came in as a finance major, I remember being intimidated by how broad the industry is. However, I was quickly relieved when I realized my peers were all in the same boat. I found that in addition to classroom exposure, being involved with student organizations and university professional events can help tremendously in understanding and navigating the industry.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Chandaluri: During college, I have significantly improved my time management skills. As a student I juggled my academics, student organizations, part-time jobs, and internship/job search almost on a daily basis. During college, I was able to develop a system on how to keep track and prioritize my tasks in order to lead into successful outcomes. My advice to the incoming students is to write all of your tasks so that you cannot forget them!
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Chandaluri: My favorite experience was being able to try out different clubs. While I was committed to my professional student organizations, I often dabbled in various social/fun clubs (badminton club, MakerGym, etc.) throughout college. I found it as a way to try out different things. I think UD is special in the sense that there are many opportunities for students to socialize and form new connections. Even if you do not find anything for you, you can always work with the University to start a new club yourself.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Chandaluri: I think ‘Lifelong Lerner’ means to give back to the University and the Lerner College. I benefited tremendously from connecting with UD Alumni at mentorship, networking, or recruiting (events). A lot of their advice helped me navigate my career choices. Upon graduation, I will strive to reconnect with Lerner students and be helpful in any way I can.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Chandaluri: My advice to the incoming freshmen would be to be as proactive as possible. It is important to make the most out of college, and one of the easiest ways to do that is to get involved with various professional and social registered student organizations (RSOs). The RSOs can become helpful as you will be surrounded by people who are in the same boat as you. Some RSOs can further guide you in your internship/job application process.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Chandaluri: During my freshman year, I expressed an interest in integrating business analytics with my finance major. My academic advisor, Carrie Baldwin, told me that Lerner would be introducing a business analytics major soon. She ensured that I registered for all the prerequisites so that I could enroll in the major as soon as it came out. I was successfully able to complete a double major because of the open and continuous communication I had with my advisor.
In addition, all the Lerner professors and staff had a huge impact on my college journey. All of my professors were more than happy to chat about various things outside of class. As a finance major, I found myself seeking advice regarding career paths, certifications, and further studies. Lastly, it was extremely humbling to receive such amazing genuine support from my professors and advisors.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Chandaluri: Upon graduation, I will be working at Vanguard as an investment analyst.