Michelle Ferlita, a 2022 graduate of Mercer University‘s Stetson-Hatcher School of Business, earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in accounting and finance.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be attending the University of Tampa to earn my Master of Business Administration with a concentration in accounting while working at Brimmer, Burek & Keelan, a CPA firm in Tampa, Florida, as a tax staff accountant.
What is one of your favorite Mercer memories?
One of my favorite Mercer memories is working Bear Beginnings each year as a peer adviser. I have been a peer adviser since my sophomore year, and it has been one of my favorite leadership roles I’ve held during my time at Mercer. Each year, it’s so exciting to see all of the incoming first-year students at their Bear Beginnings, and I’ve always tried to make each of them feel at home during this new and exciting transition. It’s even more exciting seeing my O-Groupers grow into such great leaders and students during their time at Mercer. All of my O-Groups will always hold a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to see what they all accomplish in the future.
What advice do you have for incoming students?
My biggest advice for incoming students is to try new things and get involved. During my first semester at Mercer, I used it as a trial run to figure out what organizations I enjoyed being a part of. Since then, I have become more and more involved each semester. My involvement at Mercer has taught me a number of skills that I will use beyond Mercer and has given me friendships that I will always cherish. Make the most of your time at Mercer — it goes by very fast!
How did Mercer prepare you for your future?
Mercer prepared me for the future by giving me so many skills and connections that I will use well into my career. Through the different opportunities that Mercer offers, such as leadership opportunities, extracurriculars, volunteering, etc., I have been able to learn how to apply many skills that I have already used outside of Mercer. Throughout my classes, my professors have also applied content to the real world, which has helped tremendously. Lastly, many of Mercer’s resources, such as the Center for Career and Professional Development, have been extremely helpful throughout my four years.
What makes Mercer special to you?
What makes Mercer special to me is the people. Since I first set foot on Mercer’s campus during my senior year of high school, everyone has been so welcoming, kind and supportive. I’ve made some amazing friends while at Mercer, and I truly think that’s what sets it apart from other schools. This does not only apply to my peers but also to the faculty and staff who work at Mercer. It’s been great getting to know faculty and staff and getting their advice as I go into the workforce. I’m so grateful for each person I have met at Mercer.
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