As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ Class of 2020, Luke Meyer from Newark, Delaware has not had the typical final semester or commencement at UD due to the coronavirus outbreak. He, and his entire class, have shown incredible resilience, maturity and spirit while adjusting to the many unexpected changes that they have encountered.
In this profile, Meyer, an international business studies and marketing double major with a Spanish studies minor, shared his favorite UD memories, how he has changed during his time at UD and his plans following graduation.
Meyer was nominated for this series by both UD professor of marketing Meryl Gardner and UD educational technology consultant Erin Sicuranza. Gardner said, “Luke tackles challenges as they arise and takes the initiative during difficult situations to ensure positive outcomes. He is able to work with people of all ages from a variety of backgrounds with empathy and intellect.
“He can quickly adjust to changing expectations and procedures as situations change,” Gardner continued. “He works hard to make interactions work, without looking as if he is working hard, and as a result, he gets things done with calm, collaborative energy. He is one of the finest young people with whom I have had the pleasure to work. He comes across as capable and mature, not because he puts on that facade, but because he truly is. What makes Luke truly unique are his initiative, problem solving ability, interpersonal skills and commitment to doing the job and doing it well.”
Sicuranza added that, “Luke, who was a member of a stellar team of undergraduate TAs, took a lead role in helping a faculty member transition to remote learning this spring. He helped set up Zoom sessions, organized content and assessment materials in Canvas and reached out to me when he had questions. He and his fellow TAs made the transition of this course smoother and were invaluable to the faculty member and me.”
Q: How do you think you have changed from your first semester at UD to now?
Meyer: I think I have changed by approaching my classes in a way where I am not solely focused on the grade I receive but also what I learn from the class. It took me some time to realize that the skills gained from a class is so much more important than the grade.
Q: What is your favorite place at UD?
Meyer: I have two favorite places on UD’s campus. First, I love Brew Haha on Main Street because it is a great environment to study and see friends. The second place is the Lerner Atrium because it is a perfect place to meet for group projects and study in between classes.
Q: What is the most memorable course that you took at Lerner?
Meyer: My most memorable class was BUAD 301, Introduction to Marketing, with Professor Anu. It was memorable because it confirmed that the marketing major was the right major for me and also it connected me with Professor Anu, who I now see as a mentor and friend.
Q: What was your favorite signature UD experience?
Meyer: My favorite signature UD experience was being able to study abroad two times. Once during a winter session and another time during a full semester. Both opportunities helped me grow both as a student and a global citizen.
Q: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Meyer: To me, being a Lifelong Lerner means being a member of a community of Lerner graduates and professors who are there to support one another throughout their careers and the educational journey of life.
Q: What are your plans following graduation?
Meyer: I plan on going to law school.