A native of Las Vegas, Nev., Jenna DeMaio is graduating from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics as an honors economics, public policy and political science triple major.
DeMaio was nominated for this series by Professor of Economics Adrienne Lucas, who recognized her as an “decision day ambassador extraordinaire” and member of Phi Beta Kappa.
In this profile, DeMaio 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?
DeMaio: I think I am much more willing to try new things and I am more confident in myself and my abilities. By being at UD I have been exposed to so many different people and experiences and it has truly been a transformative experience. All of the events and experiences I have attended through Lerner and UD in general have made me just so much more comfortable and confident in any professional setting.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
DeMaio: One of my largest challenges was adapting to a new environment when moving to the east coast. It was such a different experience with all the new foods, weather, and experiences. I just immersed myself fully and tried to get involved with as much as possible. Soon enough I was able to handle myself like a local.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
DeMaio: I loved taking full advantage of my winter sessions. I had the opportunity to intern in Governor Carney’s office my first winter session and that was an amazing unique experience. I also had the chance to get ahead in some of my classes and work as a Blue Hen Ambassador tour guide for other winter sessions. They are truly a unique way to try new things.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
DeMaio: Dr. Liz Bayley is THE BEST. She is actually the reason I am an economics major. I was originally a public policy major but had to take her ECON 101 class because I didn’t score high enough for AP credit. It was the best thing to ever happen to me because I loved her class and decided to keep going. She was there every step of the way, always cheering me on and helping me get involved.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
DeMaio: Being a Lifelong Lerner means that there is a large community of people out there to help and advise you. When the time comes I hope I can give back to the UD community and mentor new students. Once a Blue Hen, always a Blue Hen!
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
DeMaio: I would recommend trying everything; even if it doesn’t seem interesting or you have never done it before, now is the time to try something new. At the same time however, also be willing to let something go if it isn’t a good fit for you or you are not interested in something any more. College is a time to change and grow and that involves picking up and putting down different experiences.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
DeMaio: I will be attending Georgia State University in Atlanta, Ga. for a joint Law School (JD)/Masters of Public Administration (MPA) program.