A native of Roxbury, N.J., Kaylee Chau graduated from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics as a business analytics major with minors in management information systems and international business.
Chau was nominated for this series by Assistant Professor of MIS Edward Hartono. In this profile, Chau shares her favorite UD memories, challenges she has overcome and her plans following graduation.
Lerner: How do you think you have changed from your first semester at UD to now?
Chau: Since my first semester at UD began abroad in Rome, my college experience started in a way that immediately pushed me outside of my comfort zone. I was adjusting not only to college, but also to a new country, new people and a completely different environment. Looking back, that experience set the tone for the rest of my time at UD because it taught me how to be more independent, adaptable and open to new opportunities.
Over the past four years, I’ve grown a lot both personally and professionally. Through my classes, my internship, leadership roles and involvement in Women in Business & DSP, I became more confident speaking up, networking, presenting and taking initiative. I also learned how much I value building connections and putting myself in spaces that challenge me.
When I first started, I was still figuring out who I was, what I wanted out of college and where I fit in. Now, I feel like I’m leaving UD with a stronger sense of direction and self. I’m more confident, self-aware and prepared for the next chapter after graduation.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Chau: One of the biggest challenges I faced during college was learning how to balance a demanding schedule. There were semesters where I was taking 18 to 21 credits while also being involved in Delta Sigma Pi, serving on the executive board for Women in Business, and trying to make time for my friends and myself.
At first, it was difficult to manage everything without feeling overwhelmed. Over time, I learned how to plan ahead, stay organized and be realistic about what I could take on. I also learned that balance does not always mean doing everything perfectly. It means knowing what needs your attention most and giving yourself grace when things get busy.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Chau: My favorite signature UD experience was being part of the World Scholars Program. Having my first semester abroad in Rome made my college experience unique from the start, and later studying in Madrid gave me another opportunity to grow outside of the traditional campus setting. Both experiences allowed me to immerse myself in new cultures, meet people from different backgrounds and become more independent. I learned how to adjust to unfamiliar places, communicate with new people and become more comfortable stepping outside of my comfort zone. Looking back, World Scholars was one of the most meaningful parts of my undergraduate experience because it shaped the way I approached the rest of college. It made me more open-minded, adaptable and confident in myself.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Chau: Professor Sharpe had a big impact on my UD experience. As a business analytics major, I took several of his classes, and they were some of the most challenging courses I had at UD. What made a difference was that even when the material felt difficult, he was always approachable and willing to help. Going to office hours or asking questions made the coursework feel less intimidating, and I could tell he genuinely wanted his students to succeed. His classes pushed me, but they also helped me build confidence in my major and feel more prepared for the future.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Chau: To me, being a “Lifelong Lerner” means continuing to grow, stay curious and stay open to learning long after graduation. Lerner has taught me that growth comes from asking questions, adapting to new situations, and being willing to step outside of my comfort zone. As I begin my career, I want to carry that mindset with me by taking on new challenges and learning from the people around me. Even after graduation, I’ll always be proud to be a Blue Hen and to carry the lessons, confidence and connections I gained at UD into whatever comes next.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming students to make the most out of their college experience?
Chau: Get involved early, say hi to new people and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Some of the best parts of college come from saying yes to new opportunities, even when you feel nervous or unsure at first. Everyone is figuring it out at the same time, so be open to new friendships, new experiences and stepping outside your comfort zone. Your four years will truly fly by, so show up, make memories and make the most of every opportunity.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Chau: Following graduation, I will be starting as an investment analyst at Prudential! I’m excited to begin this next chapter, keep learning and see where life after UD takes me.