As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ Class of 2021, Julia Moch, an operations management and international business studies double major with a minor in Spanish from Stamford, Connecticut has not had the typical final year or commencement at UD due to the coronavirus pandemic. Moch, and her entire class, have shown incredible resilience, maturity and spirit while adjusting to the many unexpected changes that they have encountered.
Moch was nominated for this series by UD Communications Specialist Dena Hillison, who said, “Julia has been devoted to the Lerner College as a student, business fraternity member and intern. She joined the Lerner Communications team as a photography and videography intern in 2019 and has been an incredible asset to the team. Julia has offered creative solutions and offered an important student’s perspective to Lerner’s communications efforts. Her creativity, skills and positive attitude will be missed as she moves into the working world beyond Lerner and we wish her the best!”
In this profile, Moch 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?
Moch: I believe my excitement to learn and grow has been an essential aspect of my college career. However, the confidence to make my ambitions a reality has truly come to fruition. I loved the independence I was able to gain during my four years. While it was difficult at times, I was able to show myself my accomplishments could go beyond the limits I previously set for myself. I could not have done it without the support from my friends and mentors.
Lerner: What is your favorite place at UD?
Moch: My favorite place on campus is Daughtery Hall. This is a small, renovated church off the side of Trabant that has been converted into a study lounge. Many have never explored this building even though they walk by it every day, so I feel it is one of the many small hidden gems of UD. I have made so many great memories studying with friends here and I will miss the beautiful colors and rainbows in the room from the stained glass windows. It was always a calm and quiet place where I could focus during studying and be close enough to Main Street to grab food with friends shortly after.
Lerner: What is the most memorable course that you took at Lerner?
Moch: This semester, I had the opportunity to take an international finance course (FINC415) with Professor Stocker. While finance is not my strong suit, this class has challenged me to go out of my comfort zone and learn in depth about the history of currency markets and monetary policy. While I was able to grow my academic knowledge, I believe the biggest gain was the challenge to take on something unfamiliar; these are the courses that will give you the most growth and lessons during your college experience.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience?
Moch: I had the privilege of studying abroad in Granada, Spain my sophomore spring semester. I was able to take courses and live with a host family for six months where the only language spoken was Spanish. This allowed me to completely immerse myself in the local culture and solidify my desire to work abroad in the future. I believe my experience allowed me to become more comfortable with diversity and new situations, which is an everyday aspect of life in the business world.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Moch: Lifelong Lerner is the everlasting connection with your alma mater. It is recognizing all the unique opportunities and moments you were able to gain during your experience, and having the eagerness to share it with the business world.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Moch: After graduation, I plan to work as an Allocation Analyst for Burlington Department Stores. I am excited for this opportunity to combine my analytical skills in a fast-paced and creative setting. I will be based in the Philadelphia area, so I am looking forward to a new environment to explore, while also having connections nearby that I have fostered over the last four years.