As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ Class of 2022, Michelle Shulkov, an accounting and management information systems double major from Hockessin, Delaware, has not had a typical student experience at UD due to the coronavirus pandemic. Shulkov and her entire clas 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.
Shulkov was nominated for this series by UD Senior Assistant Dean Marcia Rollison, who said, “She is super committed to UD. She has served as a Lerner Ambassador and was always willing to serve on our panels for virtual and in-person events. She is active in so many student organizations, and we are so fortunate to have her working in our office on the front desk this semester as she finishes up her degree.
“We will have prospective families walking in or calling in with so many questions, or wanting to meet with someone, and even when we can’t find a faculty around, or an advisor that’s free, she jumps in and does an incredible job of answering their questions, giving them a well-rounded student perspective on what the student experience is like. She is so positive and committed to UD. She will be a wonderful alumna in the future.”
In this profile, Shulkov 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 freshman year at UD to now?
Shulkov: I entered college looking to do everything on campus. I quickly learned that there are only 24 hours in a day and 18 credits worth of class to study for. The last four years have taught me that hard work truly pays off and school work always comes to the forefront. I had some really challenging semesters that seemed impossible at times but through resilience, asking for help and taking the time, everything worked out better than expected.
Lerner: Were you involved in any extracurricular activities? If so, how did they shape your experience at UD?
Shulkov: I started my freshman year by joining the Club Triathlon Team after attending the club sports fair at the Little Bob. The team offered me a great balance of athletics, friends and an activity outside of the classroom. My sophomore year, I became a member of the Student Alumni Ambassadors (SAA) club. This organization acts as a bridge between current students and alumni. I understood that I loved Delaware and enjoyed speaking to others that shared similar sentiments.
My junior year I was invited to be a Lerner Ambassador, which meant I participated in Blue & Gold Days and Decision Days. I would speak on my experience as an accounting and management information systems double major to high school students and their families considering the two majors. I think that my involvements throughout my undergrad experiences have solidified my confidence in my intrapersonal skills and the importance of strong communication. I have joined clubs and organizations that have shown me the various facets Delaware has to offer.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Shulkov: A “Lifelong Lerner” means that my education and professors created a foundation of opportunity. I have been given the resources to succeed and now it is up to me and my abilities to make something worthwhile of it. As a “Lifelong Lerner” I look forward to coming back and being an active alumna. The “Lifelong” aspect means that my Lerner story is forever evolving.
Lerner: What was the most memorable course that you took at Lerner?
Shulkov: I have referred to MISY427, Information Technology and Organizational Effectiveness, with Dr. Andrea Everard time and time again. The real-world application was apparent instantly. This course takes a holistic view of IT in a way that I never previously understood or even considered. The class is taught in a format that motivates discussions, prompts questions, and encourages deeper thought. Dr. Everard’s explicit effort to focus on diversity and inclusion is motivating and uplifting for a woman entering the workforce.
Lerner: What was your favorite UD experience?
Shulkov: My favorite UD experience was driving down to Washington, DC this past spring to see the men’s basketball team win against JMU to secure their spot in March Madness. My friends and I decided the night prior to drive down the following afternoon. The school energy and excitement were unmatched, it was definitely worth the drive.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Shulkov: After graduation, I will be joining KPMG’s Boston office as an Advisory Associate in their Deal Advisory practice. I will also be working to complete my CPA accreditation.