A native of Newark, Delaware, Regan Riley graduated from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics as a management major with a minor in management information systems (MISY).
Riley was nominated for this series by Assistant Professor of Management Saleem “Sal” Mistry and Senior Instructor of Operations Management Susan Murphy.
Mistry said, “Regan, my teaching assistant this year, stands out for her exceptional attention to detail, punctuality, organization, and proactive approach to enhancing student learning experiences. Assigned with the task of elevating classroom engagement, she exceeded expectations with her meticulous work ethic. One notable example is when I tasked her with creating in-class activities to demonstrate organizational structure and teamwork. Her ideas not only facilitated comprehension but also prompted students to apply course concepts to real-life situations. Furthermore, Regan’s ability to communicate ideas succinctly and effectively, utilizing visual aids and thoughtful design, significantly enhances clarity and engagement in the classroom. Among the many teaching assistants I’ve worked with, Regan’s genuine dedication to student learning truly sets her apart. She deserves recognition for her exceptional contributions to our college’s educational mission.”
In this profile, Riley 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?
Riley: During my first semester at UD, I was extremely reserved and still learning about who I was. I can confidently say that UD has completely shaped me into the person I am today. I am more confident in myself and my decisions, and I have developed strong leadership skills through various opportunities and experiences at the university. I am grateful for the personal growth and self-discovery that UD has provided me with.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Riley: College has come with a lot of challenges, and overcoming them has been a learning curve. Finding your interests and passions can be a key factor in navigating the college experience and making the most of your time there. It’s important to stay open-minded and explore different opportunities to truly discover what drives you. I came into college not knowing what I wanted to do, but after exploring various classes and extracurricular activities, I found my passion for business. Now, I am able to focus my energy on pursuing internships and networking opportunities that align with my career goals.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Riley: During my freshman year, I decided to rush a sorority in hopes of branching out of my comfort zone and allowing myself the opportunity to meet new people. Joining my sorority has given me my best friends, amazing experiences, and opportunities that I will be forever grateful for. My sorority sisters have been a constant source of support and inspiration, pushing me to strive for success in all aspects of my life. Through their encouragement, I have gained the confidence to take on leadership roles and make a positive impact within my community.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Riley: During the fall of 2023 I had the amazing opportunity to be a teaching assistant for Professor Sal Mistry’s BUAD309 course. Becoming a TA for Sal has truly been an incredible experience, allowing me to further develop my leadership skills and mentor other students in their academic journey. Sal has been a supportive mentor throughout this experience, providing valuable guidance and feedback to help me succeed in my role. Working closely with him has also deepened my understanding of the course material and enhanced my own academic knowledge. He has been incredibly supportive in everything I do and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to work alongside him. I am confident that the skills and knowledge I have gained from this experience will continue to benefit me in my future academic and professional endeavors.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Riley: Being a “Lifelong Lerner” means being part of a close-knit community of students and staff that will continue to be a source of support and inspiration long after graduation. The opportunities for growth and development are endless, with resources available to help individuals achieve their academic and personal goals.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Riley: A piece of advice I would give to incoming freshmen would be to not be afraid to get out of your comfort zone. I remember being so afraid to make new friends or branch out my freshman year but by doing so, I learned so much about myself and met the most amazing people along the way. It’s important to remember that everyone is in the same boat as you, so don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. Embrace the opportunities that come your way and don’t be afraid to step outside of what feels familiar.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Riley: Following graduation, I am planning on moving back home, taking some time to be with family, and potentially applying to graduate school or looking for a job. I want to explore my options and make a decision that aligns with my long-term goals and aspirations. I need to take this time to reflect on my next steps and make a well-informed decision about my future.