As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ Class of 2023, Jasmine Mayo, hospitality business management major with minors in event management and beverage management from Lewes, Delaware, has demonstrated remarkable dedication and resilience during her time at UD.
Mayo was nominated for this series by UD Chef Instructor Alison Rainis, who said, “Jasmine’s incredible work ethic is only a small part of what makes her a fantastic student. What sets Jasmine apart is her infectious positivity and her ability to connect with her peers as well as her instructors. She makes me so proud!”
In this profile, Mayo shared 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?
Mayo: As a first generation college student, I had no idea what to expect when I came to UD. I remember being so excited, nervous, overwhelmed and scared for the journey that was ahead of me. It wasn’t until about a month or two into my first semester that I was getting the hang of things, meeting new people, and getting involved on campus and within my major. Looking back, I can say that I am more confident in myself, more open to new experiences, and being comfortable with not knowing everything or what to expect.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome her?
Mayo: Like many others in my class, COVID really put a damper on my freshman and sophomore year. Numerous thoughts were rolling through my head such as can I do online classes, is college right for me, will my degree be useful in a post COVID world, etc. Just taking one day at a time and worrying about the things that I can control really helped me during that time of uncertainty.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Mayo: My favorite UD experience was getting involved and joining clubs. One club specifically, Hospitality Club provided me with so many opportunities for growth and industry experiences that I would have not got to experience in another club. I served as the treasurer for one year and the president for two years and led such a wonderful group of my peers with planning our annual Hospitality Club Brunch. I will forever be grateful for the people, events, and experiences the club provided me with during my time at UD.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Mayo: Being a “Lifelong Lerner” means that even though I may not be taking classes at UD anymore, learning is something that will never end. Whether it is something big or something small there will always be something to learn. It is also a reminder that there are Blue Hens all around the world. Wherever my career takes me, there’s a huge network of individuals that are always willing to lend a hand when one needs it.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Mayo: My advice for incoming freshmen is to be yourself and don’t worry. Everyone is in the same boat with not knowing many people, wanting to make new friends, and wanting to have a great college experience. If you be yourself and go with the flow, you will find where you are meant to be in regards to people, places, and experiences during your time at UD.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Mayo: Even though I have only known Chef Alison for less than a year, I feel as though I have known her during my entire time at UD. She inspires me every day to be the best version of myself and always have fun with whatever I am doing. She opened my eyes to the world of restaurants and has provided me with endless opportunities to learn and grow as a chef, student, and individual.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Mayo: Following graduation from UD, I will be the chef and general manager of DiFebo’s Market in Bethany Beach, Delaware.