As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ Class of 2021, Meera Kripalu, a fashion merchandising and marketing double major from Wilmington, Delaware has not had the typical final year or commencement at UD due to the coronavirus pandemic. Kripalu, and her entire class, have shown incredible resilience, maturity and spirit while adjusting to the many unexpected changes that they have encountered.
Kripalu was nominated for this series by UD Assistant Professor of marketing Anu Sivaraman, who said, “She is an UG student who is very active on campus. She runs her own business and is interested in sustainable fashion. She has diverse interests and is a budding philanthropist.”
In this profile, Kripalu 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?
Kripalu: I was so shy when I first came to UD, I was afraid to speak up in class and I was very unsure of my path. Now, I am so much more confident in myself and in my goals and I can’t wait to change this world for the better.
Lerner: What is your favorite place at UD?
Kripalu: I love the Trabant chapel! I have spent more hours than I can count studying in the chapel and it helps that it is a gorgeous building!
Lerner: What is the most memorable course that you took at Lerner?
Kripalu: FINC311! I remember this class being really difficult at first but Professor Lynch was an amazing professor and I realized that I actually liked the material. It went from being a scary class to one that I got an A in!
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience?
Kripalu: My favorite experience at UD was studying abroad. I was so lucky to study abroad in Paris as part of the fashion program, where I worked backstage at fashion shows, interned for Elie Saab and met amazing people.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Kripalu: Being a Lifelong Lerner means that I will continue to maintain a sense of curiosity and keep up with my love for learning. I am nowhere near done with learning and education, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the future.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Kripalu: I’m currently in the interview process and, due to COVID-19 it has been difficult, but I’m keeping a sense of optimism nonetheless! I really would like to work in sustainable fashion, so I’m hoping that I get there someday.