Students at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics have a diverse range of nearly 30 student-led groups on campus, offering students opportunities to connect, engage and grow in their personal and professional interests.
Ross Rosenfeld, Class of 2023 marketing and business analytics double major, is the president of Phi Chi Theta at Lerner College. Rosenfeld shared why he joined Phi Chi Theta, what makes this group stand out and how to get involved!
Lerner: When and why did you choose to join this student group?
Rosenfeld: I joined Phi Chi Theta in the fall of 2020 when our chapter operated virtually. I really wanted to find my place on campus and get connected with like-minded business students. In hoping to maximize my student experience at Lerner, I found that being recruited by a close-knit business fraternity would allow me to form genuine friendships and have access to leadership opportunities that I know I couldn’t find elsewhere.
Lerner: When and where does your student group meet and approximately how many members do you have?
Rosenfeld: Phi Chi Theta meets as a chapter once a week in one of the lecture halls. During this time, we review upcoming events for the coming week and develop our professional skills through speakers and workshops. Separate from the chapter, we hold 2-3 events per week ranging from brotherhood events to DEI workshops to philanthropy events to industry speaker panels. We currently have over 60 active brothers and sisters.
Lerner: What is the mission/goal of your student group?
Rosenfeld: The Zeta Chi chapter at UD works to uphold the principles set forth by both national guidelines and Lerner values. We strive to provide professional, philanthropic, social, and DEI-minded events for our members. Simply put, we simultaneously build friendships while providing leadership and networking opportunities.
Lerner: What is your best memory or proudest moment from this student group?
Rosenfeld: My best memory with Phi Chi Theta was when we took a chapter trip to Milburn Orchards for a nighttime hayride and bonfire this past October. Complete with music, apple cider, s’mores, and good conversation, our brothers participated in a fellowship event that was a welcome break from a rigorous academic semester! This event brought together both our initiated brothers and our then-newest pledge class. Social events are always well-received within the brotherhood and are a direct result of the collaboration between our Internal Vice President, the Brotherhood Chair, and the recruitment committee.
Their tireless efforts to bring the newest pledges and initiated brothers together were rewarded by the amazing time we all had. Our time at Milburn allowed brothers and pledges alike to become more comfortable with each other in a relaxed setting. We sorted out which classes we had with new members, debated over the best way to make a s’more, and enjoyed each others’ company while bonding over shared experiences and goals. It is a truly heartwarming and unforgettable memory, and I am grateful to have been a part of it with my Phi Chi Theta family.
Lerner: What is unique about your student group?
Rosenfeld: One of the most unique things about Phi Chi Theta is that our brothers are extremely close-knit, so you’ll always have someone to study with or bond with before class. Since we are considered a newer fraternity on campus, there are many leadership opportunities for members right when they get initiated.
Lerner: What are your goals for the future of your student group?
Rosenfeld: The future of Phi Chi Theta is full of opportunities for growth and connection. My main goal is to continue to foster a strong sense of brotherhood and support among our members through providing them with the resources needed to succeed both personally and professionally. Additionally, I am committed to facilitating a wide range of events that will help our members develop new skills and make valuable professional connections.
Although it is only the beginning, we have hosted internship panels, DEI speaker series, keynote speakers from local businesses, and corporate recruitment events. Phi Chi Theta places a high priority on creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all while always upholding our core values of brotherhood, professionalism, and service. By continuing to grow and evolve as an organization, we hope to serve our members with the tools they need to succeed and make a positive impact through their life’s work.
Lerner: How has your student group helped you grow, personally or professionally?
Rosenfeld: The resources and training provided by Phi Chi Theta have equipped me with the skills necessary to succeed in both my personal and professional endeavors. Through participating in networking events and stepping outside of my comfort zone by speaking in front of the chapter, I have experienced significant growth in my public speaking abilities. I have had the privilege of connecting with professionals in various fields, faculty members within Lerner, and students, providing me with invaluable exposure and opportunities. The brotherhood and support of Phi Chi Theta has been instrumental in helping me become the confident, skilled, and successful person I am today.
Lerner: Does your group have any social media handles?
Instagram: @udpct
LinkedIn: Udpct
Tik Tok: @udpct
Lerner: Does your group have a website?
Lerner: Is there any additional information regarding your student group that you believe has not been covered? Please feel free to share.
We begin to recruit a new pledge class at the start of both the fall and spring semesters. Open to any undergraduate student with a major or minor in business or economics, this is an unmatched chance for students to fully immerse themselves into their college experience.
Fraternity email address: info.udpct@gmail.com