A native of Acton, Mass., Thomas Vialle is graduating from the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics as a finance and financial planning and wealth management double major with a minor in trust management.
Vialle was nominated for this series by Associate Instructor of Finance, Director, Financial Planning and Wealth Management Major Richard C. Jakotowicz Jr. and Instructor of Business Law, Trusts, and Fiduciary Income Tax, Director – Trust Management Minor Jennifer McCloskey, who described Thomas as “extraordinary” and an “example of the best Lerner has to offer.” Vialle was also nominated by Associate Professor of Finance Jay Coughenour who said, “Tommy served as the Portfolio Strategist at BHIC, and will be working with Goldman Sachs Private Wealth Mgmt group in Boston after graduation!”
In this profile, Vialle shares his favorite UD memories, how he has changed during his time at UD and his plans following graduation.
Lerner: How do you think you have changed from your first semester at UD to now?
Vialle: Throughout the four years my confidence has grown a lot in terms of being a leader and handling professional settings. I have also become very comfortable building relationships with people no matter how much or how little we have in common, which is something I owe to my time at UD.
Lerner: What have been some of the challenges you have faced during your college experience and how did you overcome them?
Vialle: Early in college my biggest challenge was getting involved with organizations on campus to help me grow and make UD feel like home. I was fortunate enough to get involved with Greek life and some academic clubs that really shaped my college experience, but with those involvements the challenge became balancing it all with classes. The best way I found for balancing a busy schedule is leaning on your friends and always keeping a positive perspective.
Lerner: What was your favorite signature UD experience and why?
Vialle: Going abroad to Rome and Florence, Italy for my senior winter easily stands out as a highlight. Taking advantage of the long winter break and traveling to another country to experience its culture is a really special experience.
Lerner: Did you have a Lerner professor or staff member that had a big impact on your UD experience?
Vialle: Rich Jakotowicz has been a huge part of my UD experience by making the financial planning program so strong and giving us students as many opportunities as possible. Jenn McCloskey is someone I can’t thank enough for the time and effort she puts into the trust minor and genuine care she has for her students. Lastly, Jay Coughenour has been extremely helpful to me and the rest of the Investment Club during his time as faculty advisor.
Lerner: What does being a “Lifelong Lerner” mean to you?
Vialle: Being a Lifelong Lerner means taking everything I’ve learned here at UD and using it to make a positive impact in my personal and professional life. I am beyond grateful for the experiences UD has given me and I look forward to giving back as much as I can in the future.
Lerner: What advice would you give to incoming freshmen to make the most out of their college experience?
Vialle: The best advice I can give is to get as involved as you can and really find where you want to spend your time. Never stop making new friends, having an open mind, working really hard but also enjoying the four years here because they fly by.
Lerner: What are your plans following graduation?
Vialle: Following graduation I will be joining Goldman Sachs in the private wealth management division in Boston, Mass. I’m excited for the next chapter and look forward to what comes.