A native of Chesapeake City, Maryland, Mia Alexander-Oliver graduated from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics as a finance major with a minor in professional selling and sales management.
Alexander-Oliver was nominated for this series by Assistant Professor of Marketing Suresh Sundaram, who said, “Mia is probably one of the best students I have had over the years. She has won a prize in every single sales competition (4) that she has participated in over the past two years. She has overcome a number of personal struggles. Ever smiling, ever cheerful! She will be joining Diamond State Financial Group as a financial advisor upon graduation.”
In this profile, Alexander-Oliver 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?
Alexander-Oliver: I can confidently say that I’ve grown professionally, as well as an individual. The woman I am now is more independent and enlightened. Throughout my semesters at UD, I was exposed to so many new atmospheres, situations, and people. Becoming a mother also contributed to this, so needless to say, I’ve grown immensely in these past five years, and I look forward to seeing how I continue to grow as time goes on.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Alexander-Oliver: As a single mom, obtaining my degree was no easy feat. I dedicated myself tirelessly every semester (fall, winter, spring, and summer) to acquire my credits while also working two jobs. My son was my main motivator through this endeavor. Being a mom is a never ending cycle of difficulties, but within that challenge, there is an even greater fulfillment. All I want to do in life is be a role model for my son, and I will because of my dedication to being successful.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Alexander-Oliver: My favorite UD experience is participating in the Lerner sales competitions. Though these may not be signature UD experiences, the level of fulfillment they brought me was great. I won third in the Why Hire Me competition, first in the Rainmakers Roleplay competition, and was even named Salesperson of the Year. These events helped me regain confidence in myself. My successes proved to me time and time again that I have the skills to be successful with anything I put my mind to.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Alexander-Oliver: One professor who had a profound impact on my experience was Dan Alia. He taught in an inspirational way that left you feeling empowered and knowledgeable. Dan has so much wisdom from his career, and is a great mentor to anyone who reaches out to him.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Alexander-Oliver: Being a Lifelong Lerner means being a part of a community that will always support you. The professors and faculty want Lerner students to thrive, and they like to be used as resources inside and outside of the classroom. I know that if I ever needed help in the future, I could always reach out to my network at Lerner!
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Alexander-Oliver: One piece of advice I would give is to savor the good moments you experience. Your college years will go by quickly. Just before you know it, it will be the spring semester of senior year, and you only have four more months to carry on some of the best moments of your life.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Alexander-Oliver: After I graduate, I plan on spending much needed quality time with my little one. I intend to continue to pursue my passion for sales in the future as well.