As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ Class of 2022, Melissa Bundy, a dual degree MBA graduate pursuing business analytics and information management from Wilmington, Delaware, has not had the typical student experience at UD due to the coronavirus pandemic. Bundy, and her entire class, have shown incredible resilience, maturity and spirit while adjusting to the many unexpected changes that they have encountered as students. Each installment of this series will profile an outstanding member of this class, showcasing their achievements, experiences at UD and what it means to be a Blue Hen.
Bundy was nominated for this series by UD Assistant Professor of Operations Management Caroline Swift, who said, “Melissa is finishing her third degree from Lerner while also being a full-time university employee. She was a standout student in my business analytics class for her enthusiasm and tenacity, always searching for the best methods to solve problems and present solutions. She was also a clear leader in the class, regularly offering guidance, technical support, and casual troubleshooting to her peers in pursuit of the best overall outcomes.”
In this profile, Bundy shared her favorite UD memories, how she has changed during her time at UD and her plans following graduation.
Lerner: How have you grown from your first year at UD to now?
Bundy: I have learned so much regarding industry, technology and what I find value spending my learning and doing.
Lerner: Were you involved in any extracurricular activities? If so, how did they shape your experience at UD?
Bundy: COVID-19 put a damper on many things, but I was able to participate in the EY Business Analytics Competition and place!. I also enjoyed networking at MBASA events.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Bundy: I will always be a member of the Lerner family, and this includes continued learning from our wonderful professors, and cultivating relationships developed within Lerner or through Lerner connections for the foreseeable future.
Lerner: What was the most memorable course that you took at Lerner?
Bundy: The analytics capstone with Dr. Caroline Swift and ethics with Dr. Wendy Smith.
Lerner: What was your favorite UD experience?
Bundy: There are so many! Meeting so many wonderful people who I hope to maintain relationships well after this experience. Participating in meaningful projects and competitions, and getting to know instructors who were really interested in helping me grow academically and professionally.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Bundy: I hope to continue on to a Ph.D. program here at the University of Delaware.