Students at the University of Delaware’s Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics have almost 30 unique student groups that they can choose to join. In each installment of this series, an executive member of one of these student groups will share their first-hand experience choosing, participating in and eventually leading their group.
Molly Thames, Class of 2021 hospitality business management major and event management minor, is the president of the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) at the Lerner College. Thames shared why she joined PCMA, what makes this group unique and more!
Lerner: When and why did you choose to join this student group?
Thames: As an aspiring event planner, I wanted to join a club that gave me experience in events that would benefit the UD community. I loved how PCMA planned events to attract new students to the hospitality business major and the Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics. We are also able to connect with and learn from industry professionals in the Philadelphia, Maryland, and D.C. area that help us prepare for our careers after graduation.
Lerner: When and where does your student group meet and approximately how many members do you have?
Thames: We have approximately ten members and we meet virtually over Zoom.
Lerner: What is the mission/goal of your student group?
Thames: To learn more about the events industry and how to utilize our skills to help others.
Lerner: What is your best memory from this student group?
Thames: My favorite memory was our Halloween themed hospitality seminar. Our mission was to recruit business undeclared freshmen by giving them a tour of Vita Nova and serving them dinner.
Lerner: What is unique about your student group?
Thames: We are sponsored by a world renowned organization that offers educational seminars, mentorship programs, and generous scholarships.
Lerner: What has been your proudest moment leading your student group?
Thames: As President, I was able to attend the Collegiate PCMA chapter meetings. These are virtual meetings with all of the presidents from dozens of other universities in the United States.
Lerner: What are your goals for the future of your student group?
Thames: After the COVID19 pandemic, I hope we are able to plan large in person events that benefit the UD community and give valuable experience to our members.
Lerner: How has your student group helped you grow?
Thames: Having a group of dedicated students with similar interests is a valuable support system. We constantly support one another and they taught me the importance of friendship in the workplace. The events industry is notably competitive, but PCMA encourages education for all and the importance of helping others.