Larissa Hedderick
Major: Marketing and Finance with a certificate in Financial Planning
Hometown: Erie, Pennsylvania
On choosing Behrend: The ability to do a dual major was huge for me, as was obtaining the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Certificate. I also found the smaller campus size valuable for the connections you can easily make with your professors and staff members in the Academic and Career Planning Center (ACPC).
On choosing her major: Both Finance and Marketing have concrete principles, but there is a lot of flexibility with both majors. I knew a career in either field would constantly evolve and keep me on my toes. The further I got in my studies and internships, the more I realized the disciplines pair well together. Skills I have learned in classes for each of my majors have proven beneficial all around.
Proudest accomplishment at Behrend: Making the Dean’s List consecutively each semester has been a huge accomplishment for me.
Campus involvement: I have been president of the Financial Planning Association Club, a peer tutor, publicity and social chair of the National Society of Leadership and Success, a member of the American Marketing Association chapter at Behrend, a Welcome Week volunteer, and an intern at ACPC.
Top priority: I am really looking forward to developing my professional career upon graduation. In my time here, I have been able to lay the foundation through classwork, internships, conferences, and clubs, and now it’s time to apply the knowledge and skills I have acquired.
A balanced approach: I think living a balanced life is super-important. While I took my studies seriously, I also enjoyed my time in college. Prioritizing yourself and finding things you enjoy such as reading, yoga, and traveling are crucial for stress release and cultivating an identity outside of the classroom.
Advice for first-year students: Never be afraid to ask for help in any capacity. Older students, professors, staff, and industry professionals are willing to help, and now is the time to absorb and learn as much as you can without pressure to earn a paycheck.
Larissa has accepted a position in the Retail Business Banking Development Program with PNC Bank in Charlotte, North Carolina.