There were many influential people that had an impact on my career and decisions while at Pitt-Bradford. Out of the classroom, Rhett Kennedy influenced my life goals, work ethic, and was a key part of my college developmental process. Through the RA program Rhett has a large impact on many of the RA's he works with throughout the year and even after graduation. While in the classroom, Rick Nelson and Betsy Matz had large impact on my academic experience. They both were able to use personal experiences in the business world to help educate and to give solid examples on topics the books do not always cover. Through these two professors, many doors were open into first hand experience that led me into my current position today at OSRAM SYLVANIA.

The fondest memory of Pitt-Bradford would be the great people you meet along the way. Within a few weeks you will meet many people from all around the world. After four years on campus my two best friends, who I met on campus, Sean Ginsberg and Curt Pfleeger, were groomsmen in my wedding to my high school sweetheart Rachel Frisina, also a Pitt-Bradford graduate.

When I began at Pitt-Bradford in 2002, I knew I wanted to be an accountant. I thought I wanted to work in the accounting world as a financial planner / CPA working in an accounting firm working on analysis and investment strategies. I soon learned how fun and exciting the world of manufacturing is in America through a co-op (intern) position with my current employer. This position was possible because Betsy Matz worked with me and was the liaison between the University and Sylvania.

There are many opportunities out in the world and Pitt-Bradford will help you become who you want to be. If you are willing to work for what you want, Pitt-Bradford will help you get there. Along with this would be the most important advice I was given, “Get involved.” Be the driver of your college career and do not watch your college years pass you by.

You are a name and not a number in the small class sizes, one-on-one time with your professor / advisor, and the extracurricular activities were all beneficial to make your college experience one of the best times of your life.