Meet Michelle McMorris, Poole’s Fall 2024 Commencement Student Speaker

Michelle McMorris is an Apex, North Carolina native who will be graduating from the Poole College of Management this fall with a Bachelor of Science in business administration, concentrating in finance. She has been selected as the commencement speaker for the Fall 2024 Poole College of Management commencement ceremony.

Tell me a bit about your time at Poole College.

It’s been really inspiring and encouraging. I’ve had so many opportunities that have pushed me out of my comfort zone. One moment that stands out to me was in one of my finance classes, where we watched an interview with Warren Buffett, in which he shared some life advice: to surround ourselves with people who are better than us and recognize the impact that the people we associate with can have on the course of our lives.

This really resonated with me as I reflected on my time at Poole. Poole College has offered countless opportunities to connect with exceptional professors, mentors and peers who push me to think critically and better myself. Some examples include projects, internships, career fairs or other networking events. I’ve had such an amazing time utilizing these resources and growing academically and personally.

What made you want to be our commencement speaker?

I saw the commencement speaker application at a time when I was in my shell. Recently, I’ve been wanting to push myself further, so I decided to just go for it. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I’ve never spoken to a crowd of more than 20 people.

When I got the results, I looked at my phone and saw the email title and thought it was the rejection email. It said “We’re so glad that you chose to apply, and we loved listening to your speeches” and I thought whatever, at least I tried, and then I kept reading and it said “We’re so pleased to announce Michelle McMorris…” I did a double and a triple take. I was in disbelief. It was really encouraging to know that my hard work does pay off and people can be inspired by what I have to say.

I chose to be the commencement speaker to step out of my comfort zone and prove to myself that even though I do struggle with a lot of anxiety, that doesn’t define me.

What will your commencement address focus on, in a nutshell?

It’s about overcoming fear and embracing resilience. It highlights the challenges we face and that through support and determination, we can push forward past our fears and achieve our goals.

How do you think Poole has prepared you for success after graduation?

If I had to classify how Poole prepared me for success, I would say communication. Four years ago, I could not hold a conversation with someone, and now I feel very comfortable engaging people and initiating conversations. Now I realize I need to get out there, make myself known and get to know people who are smarter than me so that I can learn from their experiences.

Throughout your journey, were there any mentors who had a significant impact on your college career? What lesson did you take away from that experience?

I took M120, Professional Development and Career Planning, with Christina DeBerardino. Her class was so helpful because it set the foundation for my career. It was mandatory to go to the career fair in her class, which I probably would never have gone to on my own. I learned not to be afraid to ask questions and speak my mind. In the end, I landed an internship, and I really have her to thank for pushing me to take that first step!

What will you miss most from your time as a student at Poole?

The community! As a freshman, I was so excited to join different Poole clubs and participate in events, such as Peer Leaders, coffee chats, mixers, workshops, panels and more! I believe that attending these Poole events gave me the confidence to step out of my comfort zone and explore other opportunities at NC State.

I joined the Filipino American Student Association dance team, attended football and basketball games and even performed with the symphonic band. I have been having the most fun I have ever had. I have met some amazing people, and I am so sad it’s coming to an end.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I’m seeking employment in the business administration or finance field.