As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ Class of 2023, Nicole Mulea, honors economics and financial planning and wealth management double major from Annapolis, Maryland, has demonstrated remarkable dedication and resilience during her time at UD.
Mulea was nominated for this series by UD Assistant Professor of Economics and Associate Chair of Undergraduate Programs Elizabeth Bayley, who said, “Nicole not only excels academically but also helps other students achieve success in economics. She has been an essential part of the Economics Department Tutoring Team for quantitative macroeconomic theory. She is also a member and treasurer of the UD Synchronized Figure Skating Team that went to Nationals this year.”
In her profile, Mulea shares 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?
Mulea: I have grown so much throughout my time at UD. I have learned how to be determined, confident, and self-sufficient. I have also been able to solidify my career choice and fully embrace it. I truly have blossomed here and I couldn’t be more thankful!
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Mulea: COVID had a huge impact on my college experience, beyond the shut downs and masks. Like everyone else, I had to reorganize my life to fit this new “normal”. I was nervous to be on campus without any athletics, but I ended up branching out and connecting with people I likely wouldn’t have otherwise met. It also taught me to appreciate the things that we all tend to take for granted.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Mulea: Joining the UD Synchronized Figure Skating Team was the best choice I could have made. It is one of the reasons that I came to UD in the first place and it worked out better than I could’ve imagined! Not only did I meet my closest friends, but it taught me perseverance, strength, and gratitude. It also gave me the opportunity to become treasurer, which allowed me to grow as a leader in a position related to my future career.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Mulea: To me, being a “Lifelong Lerner” means that I will be a representative of the UD Lerner College forever. As a current Lerner Ambassador, I have enjoyed sharing my experiences with prospective students. As a Lifelong Lerner, I will continue share my positive experience with anyone who will listen and I will strive to stay involved in the Lerner community!
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Mulea: My advice would be to get involved in any way possible! Between athletics, class, clubs, or jobs, there are plenty of ways to get involved at UD. It is definitely the easiest way to make friends that you will have forever! Cherish your time in college – I promise it goes by way too fast!
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Mulea: The advisors and professors at UD are wonderful! Elizabeth Bayley and Carrie Baldwin were my advisors and they were always there when I needed them. No matter what my issue was, they were there to help me to the best of their ability and it meant so much to me! The professor that had the biggest impact on me was Rich Jakotowicz, who I was fortunate enough to have for two financial planning classes. In addition, I was honored to attend a conference with him and a couple of my peers. He really cares about each of the students and wants us all to succeed. Besides being a great professor, he helps his students with career opportunities and is always there to provide career advice.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Mulea: I will be working for CovingtonAlsina in Annapolis, MD as a paraplanner. I will also be studying for my CFP (Certified Financial Planner) exam!