A native of Bethlehem, Pa., Sophia Doran graduated from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics with a major in management information systems and a concentration in marketing.
Doran was nominated for this series by assistant professor of management information systems Ed Hartano. In this profile, Doran shares her favorite UD experience, 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?
Doran: Since my first semester at UD, I have undergone a significant transformation, evolving from a hesitant freshman into a confident professional ready to take on the next chapter of my life. While I initially pushed myself to step out of my comfort zone academically within the Lerner College, joining Delaware Dance Fever proved to be one of the most defining decisions of my college career. This experience allowed me to maintain my passion for dance and build lifelong friendships while gaining the opportunity to fundraise for UDance. Between the technical challenges of my coursework and the mentorship of wonderful professors, I have developed a deep confidence in my ability to succeed both inside and outside of the classroom. I truly feel that my time at UD has equipped me with the resilience and connections necessary to thrive in my professional journey.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Doran: Throughout my college journey, I occasionally struggled with the weight of comparison – feeling as though I needed to mirror the experiences or actions of those around me to be truly valued. Whether in social settings or the classroom, I felt pressured to fit a certain mold until I realized that comparison is truly the thief of joy and confidence. Once I embraced my individuality, I unlocked a new level of academic and personal potential. By learning to celebrate my own milestones and trust my instincts, I have become a much more resilient, authentic and effective leader.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Doran: My favorite UD experiences have been joining Delaware Dance Fever and studying abroad in Florence, Italy. Through my dance club, I gained some of my closest friends and had the opportunity to lead as a fundraising chair and choreographer for multiple years. Similarly, my time in Italy was a life-changing experience that exceeded every expectation; it immersed me in new cultures and significantly increased my confidence and independence. I’m graduating with a lifetime of stories and a much broader perspective on the world.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Doran: I have been fortunate enough to have several professors who had a wonderful impact on my UD experience. First, I would like to acknowledge Professor Edward Hartono. He taught the first MISY class I ever took, and I made it a point to visit his office hours and be an active participant so he would truly know me. He is a kind, intelligent and supportive mentor who has guided me throughout these past four years. Additionally, I recently had Professor Ryan Rodalunas for my MISY capstone courses. He was nothing but supportive during our weekly meetings and provided the constructive feedback necessary for all his students to grow. Both professors contributed immensely to my success at UD, and I cannot thank them enough for their mentorship!
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Doran: To me, being a ‘Lifelong Lerner’ means having a constant drive to grow in every aspect of life. I have always thrived in educational settings and truly loved my time in the classroom, so while I am bittersweet about this chapter ending, I am eager to translate that curiosity into my career. I look forward to continuing my passion for learning and personal development within a professional environment, applying the same dedication to my future roles that I brought to my studies at UD. I know that the foundation built here at Lerner has prepared me to treat every new challenge as an opportunity to gain more knowledge.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming students to make the most out of their college experience?
Doran: My best advice for incoming students is to step out of your comfort zone, build as many meaningful connections as possible, and remain dedicated to your studies. Always strive to be the teammate your peers can rely on; putting your best foot forward in group settings is just as important as individual success. These years at UD go by incredibly fast, and while you may face various trials, they are a vital part of your journey toward self-growth. Take full advantage of everything the University has to offer, but always remember that you are the ultimate champion of your own success.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Doran: Following graduation, I will be returning to the Lehigh Valley to launch my professional career within the data analytics and finance sectors. My ultimate goal is to secure a role within the tech industry where I can leverage my background in management information systems and marketing to drive data-driven decision-making. I am eager to hit the ground running and apply the technical skills and professional foundation I’ve built at the University of Delaware to a fast-paced corporate environment.