Meet the president of USI's chapter of Alpha Kappa Psi Mariah Marcuson. She is a senior majoring in business administration with a minor in finance, and will graduate in December 2018.
What makes USI and the Romain College of Business special to you?
This campus is special to me because of the people. I have been able to meet and become friends with individuals who have pushed me to do my best and helped me up when times have gotten stressful. USI and especially the Romain College of Business have become my second home.
What has surprised you about college?
There are many other students like me. I have found a sense of community here at USI with various students who have the same goals and drive that I strive to have.
What do you wish you had known as an incoming freshman?
I wish I would have known that I wasn’t going to be seen as an unimportant or insignificant freshman. I had the idea that coming in that people would not be interested in my ideas or who I was. I was completely wrong because people were welcoming and supportive and didn’t look down just because I was new at this whole “college thing.” I actually was given many opportunities as a freshman that have helped me throughout college.
What attributes make a student successful in college?
Attributes that I personally think make a student successful in college are: 1. Capable of admitting uncertainty by having the ability to admit when you don't understand something. 2. Seeing the big picture because sometimes you will not understand why you are going through all of the ups and down college throws at you. It is good to take a step back and realize why you are here and what your purpose is. 3. Communication skills are key in expressing your needs and engaging in the information you need to know. 4. Time management is one that is always talked about but I never really understood until college. It is important to take care of school and work, but equally as important to take time for hobbies, socializing, and having fun as well.
As your student organization’s president, what are some things you hope to achieve?
I hope to achieve intriguing more students not just business majors to our organization. I know how beneficial Alpha Kappa Psi has been to me and want to share this experience with others. I also would like to see our organization work closely with other organizations on and off campus that will help to do good not just us but others as well, and build relationships that will last.
What made you decide to pursue being an officer of your organization?
When I first joined Alpha Kappa Psi I knew I wanted to do more than just be a member of the chapter. I remember wanting to step outside of my comfort zone and try something that would prepare me for my future career.
Who is your mentor?
I as of right now do not have a mentor. I instead have a network of resources that I rely on to give me advice and guidance. For me this is important because I like to have several opinions as my life is continuously changing throughout college. I think that once I find a career it will be important for me to find a mentor to help me with the ins and outs of the career.
How do you stay focused when the demands of school, work, etc. seem overwhelming?
Getting alone time, even when the demands of school, work, etc., get overwhelming. Taking a moment to myself and realizing that I can get everything done, I just have to make it my priority to stay on top of things. I spend time reflecting on what I can do to better stay on task and take plenty of naps!
Tell us more about your student organization and why USI students should get involved with it!
Alpha Kappa Psi Coed Business Fraternity is the world's oldest & largest business fraternity. Open to all majors/genders. We are recognized as the premier developer of principled business leaders. Our organization is focused on our core values: brotherhood, unity, knowledge, integrity, and service. It is our mission to give resources to students to help build their professional and personal lives by giving opportunities of real world experience, community service, and networking.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
In ten years I see myself living in Indianapolis, Indiana, working for my dream job at Eli Lilly.
Published October 15, 2018