Emily Diderrich '20

Major: Management and Leadership
Minors: German

Why this major? What made you choose it?

I have always put myself in leadership positions throughout school and in my everyday life. When I found out that Carroll offers a major that tailors directly to my love of leadership, I knew management and leadership was the right choice for me.

What is your career objective?

My goal at this stage in life remains quite broad, but my overall objective is to work my way up in a company and eventually lead it. I want to be able to start from the bottom, learn about all the pieces that go into the business, and become a leader that motivates and encourages the organization to not only be the best that it can be, but to enjoy themselves doing it as well.

How has what you’ve learned in your courses so far prepared you for your future?  

The business program at Carroll provides students with a very well-rounded education in the field. Prior to college I had no real understanding of economics, accounting, marketing, or anything in that realm. The things that I have learned through my courses helped me get the job I have currently and I feel prepared to explore new areas of my career moving forward.

What opportunities have you had to work closely with a faculty member and what impact has that had on your education?

I have been impacted by many people during my time at Carroll, but no one has had as much of an influence on me as Professor Mary Ann Wisniewski. I am fortunate enough to have taken four of her classes and in each one she has pushed me to be a better version of myself. She also regularly checks in on how I’m doing and has given me advice over the past few years that has helped me both academically and personally. I am extremely thankful to have this relationship with her.

What is the most memorable experience you’ve had in your education at Carroll?

In my Leadership 190 class we did a semester long assignment called “The Personal Best Leadership Project”. During this project I had to identify the areas of my life that I needed to improve in order to become a better and more effective leader. I learned a lot about myself and my leadership tendencies by participating in this project. It even encouraged me to take better care of my physical and mental health which is a message people often forget about.

How has Carroll enriched your growth as a person?

Throughout my time at Carroll I have had the opportunity to participate in and be on the executive board of many organizations such as Student Senate and the Carroll Republicans. Carroll’s rich extracurricular life has allowed me to explore my passions and figure out who I am, helping me learn what is truly important to me.

If you were recommending your major to a prospective student, what would you tell them?

I would tell prospective students that this major will teach you a lot about yourself. The leadership classes in particular help you realize your strengths, potentials, and areas that need improvement. In order to be a great leader you need to be very introspective and the management and leadership classes really help you do that.

How has financial aid made a difference in your life?

I am a recipient of the Faculty Tuition Benefit which has made a tremendous impact in my life. I toured Carroll because of this opportunity and ended up falling in love with the campus. I am able to be here because of this benefit and it helped me find my home! I am also free to focus on my academic and social life and not be too stressed about student loans.

What’s your favorite place to study on campus?

My favorite place to study is Stone Creek Coffee. I never know who I’m going to run into and be able to have a conversation with when I’m there. I also love the energy of everyone getting together, whether it’s to study or catch up over coffee.