A native of Toms River, N.J., Isabella Cecchini is graduating from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics as a finance and financial planning and wealth management double major with a minor in trust management.
Cecchini was nominated for this series by Associate Professor of Finance Jay Coughenhour and Instructor of Business Law, Trusts, and Fiduciary Income Tax, Director – Trust Management Minor Jennifer McCloskey, who deemed Cecchini as, “extraordinary and an example of the best Lerner has to offer.”
Coughenhour said, “Bella has also been an active BHIC member, and served as the Chair of BHIC’s Charitable Grant Committee last year – awarding $22,000 to charitable UD RSOs. Bella will be working at Piper Sandler Bank in NYC after graduation.”
In this profile, Cecchini 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?
Cecchini: Coming into college, I was uncertain in my abilities and often felt overwhelmed in my academic abilities. I struggled to find direction and felt burnt out often. Over the last four years I have made some tremendous growth – not just academically, but personally. Through rigorous classes, leadership roles, and being involved in hands-on opportunities like the Blue Hen Investment Club, I have gained and established a stronger sense of self-confidence and purpose. Today, I leave UD confident in my knowledge and abilities, and I am ready to take the next steps of my career in finance.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Cecchini: The two most difficult aspects of my college career were public speaking and time management. Initially, I was overwhelmed with handling my academics, extracurriculars, and my personal life. I soon learned that being successful required structure, and it was best to stick to a routine that allowed me to manage my time better. Academically, the trust management minor was essential in pushing me out of my comfort zone. The minor taught me how to confidently articulate complex ideas in front of an audience – something I later went on to do to achieve second place in the Trust Management Minor Case Competition. These experiences, in addition to my leadership roles in organizations like the Blue Hen Investment Club, allowed me to work well in stressful situations and communicate confidently.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Cecchini: My most meaningful and memorable experiences were becoming a member of the Blue Hen Investment Club and studying abroad during the winter session in Thailand and Australia. Not only did the investment club give me hands-on experience with the financial markets, but it also allowed me to research different equities, pitch stocks, and work with individuals with similar interests. The club helped me learn about responsibility, working with others, and having a sense of purpose while preparing for my future career in finance. Studying abroad allowed me to expand my perspective in ways that the classroom otherwise could not. Studying finance and marketing courses in two countries filled with rich culture and diversity helped me see how business works on an international level. I loved being a part of a new culture, meeting new people, and ultimately, seeing how decision-making and consumer behavior differ internationally. These experiences helped me become who I am today, both professionally and personally.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Cecchini: Professor Jennifer McCloskey made a significant impact on me, academically and professionally, during my time at UD. As an attorney practicing in trusts and estates law, with experience in the financial services sector, she gave a real-world application to every class. The material was interesting, and her manner of teaching helped me build confidence to explore and understand challenging concepts. She was not only a professor but also a mentor who challenged me when I needed to think critically and presented me with opportunities to develop my professional and technical skills. She was instrumental in helping me build my confidence in public speaking and learning capabilities. Professor McCloskey pushes students to grow outside of their comfort zones, and as a student, I really appreciated having someone as accomplished and outstanding as Professor McCloskey as an advocate of mine. Her belief in my abilities pushed me to aspire for excellence. I will forever be grateful for her mentorship and for the example she sets as a professional.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Cecchini: To me, being a Lifelong Learner means staying up to date with the ever-changing world of business and finance, continuously learning from others, and applying knowledge in new and impactful ways by asking questions and being a mentor to others. Using what I’ve learned at Lerner to help guide and inspire future students, just as others have done for me, is important to me, as I am extremely thankful for all the mentorship I have received throughout the last four years.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Cecchini: Advice I would give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience is to not be scared to venture outside their comfort zone in order to maximize their college experience. Joining clubs, taking on leadership roles, and challenging yourself in classes are crucial for growth. UD has so many amazing clubs and organizations that will help you find your people and excite you! It is important to find mentors, build genuine relationships, and, most importantly, be patient with yourself. Be your own biggest fan!
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Cecchini: Following my graduation from the University of Delaware, I will be moving to New York City to begin my role as a full-time investment banking analyst at Piper Sandler, working within its insurance group. I’m excited to apply the skills and experiences I’ve gained at UD and look forward to what the future holds in my post-graduate career!