Elon students reflect on their most impactful hands-on experiences, share what they hope to accomplish this academic year and highlight how they want their time at Elon to stand out. From collaborative projects and global opportunities to leadership roles and personal growth, their voices illustrate what it means to be world-class and world-ready.

Portrait of Noah Biggers

Accounting | Gastonia, NC

Noah Biggers ‘26

What do you hope to accomplish this academic year?

”This year, I’m excited to finish my Master of Science in Accounting through the Accelerated 3+1 Dual Degree program. I will also study abroad in Portugal during Winter Term, taking a course on environmental, social and governance reporting to explore how these issues shape the future of accounting and business.

Business Analytics | Annapolis, MD

Emma Trippett ‘27

What do you want your Elon experience to stand out for?

“I want my Elon experience to stand out for founding the Women in Business Analytics Club. Building the organization showed me that leadership is rooted in connection, and I hope my journey inspires women, sparks curiosity and helps create a community where growth truly thrives.”

Economics | Richmond, VA

Abigail Mulvaney ‘27

What’s been the most impactful hands-on experience you’ve had?

“Through the Business Fellows program I’ve had opportunities to travel and expand my horizons. Networking trips to Charlotte and New York, global study in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and upcoming research in Uganda have enriched my perspective and connected my work to real-world impact.”

Photo of Jadon Dorsey

Economic Consulting | Charleston, WV

Jadon Dorsey ‘26

What do you want your Elon experience to stand out for?

“I want my Elon experience to stand out for leaving a lasting impact through leadership and relationships with younger students. I hope to be known as someone who worked hard, helped grow organizations and became a person others look to for guidance and mentorship.”

Photo of Dylan O'Neill

Entrepreneurship & Innovation | Decatur, GA

Dylan O’Neill’28

What do you want your Elon experience to stand out for?

“I want my Elon experience to stand out for opportunities I couldn’t get elsewhere. Studying in Shanghai with an internship and joining an international sales team at global competitions reflect how Elon prepares me to connect entrepreneurship and community service into a viable career.”

Photo of Rob Sahagian’26

Finance | Westchester, NY

Rob Sahagian’26

What do you hope to accomplish this academic year?

“This year, I aim to lead the student-managed portfolio team to a historic period of returns while also growing Elon’s Financial Management Association into a club that provides underclassmen with more hands-on experience in finance.”

Photo of Ben Hamilton ‘27

Financial Technology | Cleveland, OH

Ben Hamilton ‘27

What’s been the most impactful hands-on experience you’ve had?

“My most impactful hands-on experience has been serving as Treasurer for Elon Club eSports. It gave me a chance to apply financial skills from the classroom while building leadership capabilities that have grown exponentially compared to before my time at Elon.”

Photo of Maddy Shapiro ‘26

Human Resources Management | Rockville, MD

Maddy Shapiro ‘26

What do you want your Elon experience to stand out for?

“I want my Elon experience to stand out for discovery. After changing my major twice, I discovered my passion for HR Management and, in the process, learned more about myself. I found what drives me personally and professionally and the direction I want to take in my career.”

Melena Hasskerl-Friedrich ‘26

International Business | Aschersleben, Germany

Melena Hasskerl-Friedrich ‘26

What’s been the most impactful hands-on experience you’ve had?

“My most meaningful experiences have come through class projects, student organizations and leading the International Business Club. I’ve grown as a leader and teammate while meeting incredible people, and I hope my journey is remembered for friendships, growth and community impact.”

Photo of Alexia Llanas

Marketing | Charlotte, NC

Alexia Llanas’28

What’s been the most impactful hands-on experience you’ve had?

“My most impactful experience was participating in the Elon Innovation Challenge, where my team pitched a start-up. The collaborative effort was insightful and taught me how to market myself and show my value to stakeholders, while strengthening my confidence as an emerging business leader.”

Photo of Maggie Blakeney’26

Project Management | Charlotte, NC

Maggie Blakeney’26

What’s been the most impactful hands-on experience you’ve had?

“Participating in the Strategic Management case competition has been my most impactful experience. It pushed me to apply classroom concepts in real time, collaborate under pressure and present solutions with real-world impact, strengthening both my teamwork and problem-solving skills.”

Photo of Ian Brecker ‘26

Supply Chain Management | Syosset, NY

Ian Brecker ‘26

What’s been the most impactful hands-on experience you’ve had here?

“Founding the Supply Chain Club with my classmates has been my most impactful experience, as it has given me a seat at the table alongside industry leaders.”