A native of Garnet Valley, Pa., Samantha McGhee is graduating from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics as an entrepreneurship and fashion merchandising and management double major.
McGhee was nominated for this series by Adjunct Faculty – Entrepreneurship Ted Foyltyn and Manager, Marketing & Events at Horn Entrepreneurship Meg Marcozzi who said, “Sam is a super active entrepreneurship major who participates in co-curricular venture support activities and also works part-time at Horn. She helps organize events for the majors, works at our major events, and also supports tours and visits to the Venture Development Center. Sam is a double major in business and fashion and has been a strong leader in many capacities at UD. She is a great speaker too!”
In this profile, McGhee 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?
McGhee: Since my first semester at UD, I’ve grown immensely – both personally and professionally. I have become more confident, independent and adaptable. Throughout these four years, I have learned to trust myself, take initiative, and embrace opportunities even when they seem intimidating. My time in the Horn Entrepreneurship program and Lerner College has led me to discover my passion for event planning and learn how to lead with both vision and purpose. I’ve become someone who embraces change, steps into leadership roles, and trusts in my ability to turn an idea into a reality.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
McGhee: One of the biggest challenges I faced was the uncertainty around life after graduation and the pressure of finding a job. At times, I doubted whether I was “good enough” or on the right path. I overcame this by leaning into the experiences I’ve had. Whether that be testing new business ideas through Horn Entrepreneurship, gaining experience from various jobs, or attending networking events to interact with mentors and advisors. My involvement in Horn Entrepreneurship has reminded me that the nontraditional path is often the most fulfilling one. I am proud to be taking the summer to lean into my passion of event planning and taking risks.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
McGhee: Studying abroad in Australia during the 2023 winter session was by far my favorite UD experience. Not only did I have the chance to take a course in workplace culture, but I also made incredible memories. This trip was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that broadened my view of the world and gave me valuable insight into how professional environments function across the globe. Outside of class, I had unforgettable experiences such as snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef and visiting an animal sanctuary with koalas and kangaroos.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
McGhee: There are many members of the Horn Entrepreneurship team who have made a huge impact on me. To name a few: Tricia Monnig, Ted Foltyn, Vince DiFelice, and Laura Gasiorowski. They provided me with endless support, introduced me to various mentors and advisors, and pushed me to pursue my own business. Their encouragement and mentorship helped me to think critically, step up as a leader, enhance my communication and be a thoughtful collaborator. Now, I carry these skills with me into every project and team I am a part of. The faculty and staff at Horn Entrepreneurship have become a family to me over the years and have had an extremely positive impact on me and my journey at the University of Delaware. I will always be grateful for them, their kindness, and support.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
McGhee: To me, being a “Lifelong Lerner” means continuing to grow, ask questions, and stay curious beyond graduation. I believe it’s about using the skills, knowledge, and values I’ve gained at Lerner College to make an impact wherever life takes me. I will always carry the entrepreneurial mindset I have developed here throughout my personal and professional journey. There will always be opportunities to innovate, adapt, and create wherever life takes me. I believe that learning never stops, and I’m excited to continue learning through every challenge and opportunity ahead.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
McGhee: If I were to give advice to incoming freshmen, I would recommend saying “yes” to opportunities that scare you. Whether that be joining a new club, speaking to your professors, attending an event even if you don’t know anyone, or studying abroad. Your college experience is what you make of it, so take initiative and get involved. Do not be afraid to ask for help, and know that it’s okay if your path looks different from others’. The moments that will shape you the most are the ones where you show up, say yes, and stay open to different opportunities.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
McGhee: After graduation, I plan to pursue my own startup, PR•E & Post, which is a creative agency specializing in new product launches. I’m passionate about building brands, especially in the fashion, beauty and lifestyle industries. Through this agency, I offer the following services – event planning, creative direction, public relations, marketing, and consulting. My goal is to help brands create unforgettable launches and long-term momentum. This startup is the result of everything I’ve learned and experienced during my time at the University of Delaware. I’m excited to fully commit to building it from the ground up. That being said, please feel free to contact me with any questions or interest in this startup. Attached is my website and contact information.
https://preandpostllc.com/
Business Email: preandpostllc@gmail.com
Business Number: (443) 877-9492
Social Media: @preandpostllc