As a member of the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics’ class of 2024, Nithya Borra, honors finance and global enterprise management double major from Princeton, New Jersey has thoroughly demonstrated her determination and excellence during her time at UD. Borra was also a world scholar during her time at UD.
Borra was nominated for this series by Senior Assistant Dean, Global Programs and Partnerships, Associate Professor of Marketing Jennifer Gregan.
In this profile, Borra 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?
Borra: Since my first semester at UD, I’ve undergone a journey of significant personal growth. I started my college career in a virtual environment, and initially, I was hesitant and reserved to make friends online. By joining organizations such as the professional business fraternity Alpha Kappa Psi, Blue Hen Investment Club, and the World Scholars program, I was able to break out of my shell, gradually embracing new experiences and opportunities with increasing confidence. Through these experiences, I found my place on campus, cultivating lifelong friendships and discovering communities where I felt valued and supported. From my first semester to now, I’ve become more sure of myself, and this has empowered me to navigate academic and professional landscapes with greater self-assurance, shaping me into a more resilient and confident individual.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Borra: A challenge I faced during my time at UD was starting my first semester amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This made for a rather difficult transition from high school to college due to the required remote learning environment and limited social interactions. I overcame this obstacle by seeking support from peers and professors, getting involved in student organizations, and reminding myself that I would soon be able to experience UD in person. Additionally, having studied abroad for two full semesters, transitioning back to life at UD proved to be a challenge. By remaining active in communities on campus and maintaining friendships made abroad, I was able to cherish my travel experiences while also reacclimating to UD.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Borra: My favorite experience at UD has been participating in the World Scholars program and studying abroad in three unique locations. I spent the first semester of my sophomore year abroad in Madrid, Spain, and through this experience, I met my college best friends. During the second semester of my junior year, I studied abroad in Sydney, Australia, and completed an internship in Singapore, through which I was able to gain a deeper understanding of cross-cultural communication. It is because of the World Scholars program that I’ve been able to experience two life-changing global learning opportunities.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Borra: Suresh Sundaram, my BUAD364 professor and Australia/Singapore study abroad advisor, has tremendously impacted my experience at UD. Over the years I’ve known Prof. Sundaram, he has not only imparted invaluable wisdom to me but has also assumed the role of a mentor, providing advice on my academic journey and transition to postgraduate life. Whenever I need assistance, Prof. Sundaram is more than willing to help, which is a true testament to his character inside and outside the classroom. Dr. Jennifer Gregan, my academic advisor, has also had an immense impact on my college experience in Lerner. From day one, Dr. Gregan supported my academic interests and study abroad pursuits by coming up with a comprehensive four-year plan that factored in my required courses, electives, and courses I would take abroad. Without Dr. Gregan’s guidance, I would not have been able to pursue a double major in finance and global enterprise management while pursuing two full semesters abroad. I would also like to thank Professor Julia Bayuk and Professor Jacob Blacksten for entrusting me with TA-ing cohorts of freshmen students in the BUAD110 course. I am grateful to have given back to underclassmen through a course that helped me solidify what I wanted to pursue for my four years at Lerner.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Borra: For me, being a “Lifelong Lerner” means giving back to the undergraduate community through mentorship and guidance. I attribute the success I’ve had in my academic and professional pursuits to the alumni mentors who have shaped me into who I am today. I hope to follow in their footsteps and provide the same guidance to future undergraduates, helping them find their academic and career interests!
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Borra: Get involved and enjoy your time at UD! The people at UD are incredibly accomplished and down to earth, so getting involved in organizations that excite you, and seeking advice from upperclassmen you look up to, will help you grow personally and professionally.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Borra: After graduation, I will be moving to New York City to work as an analyst in the corporate advisory group at MUFG Bank. I look forward to beginning my post-graduate career in NYC and can’t wait for what the future holds!