Alumni Success Stories
Catherine BadrakGraduated May 2003 B.S. International Business Cromwell, Central Otago, New Zealand I moved to New Zealand last year to pursue a career in wine marketing, after spending a year in France and becoming exposed to the exciting challenges of the industry. I am currently studying for a Masters of Wine Business from the University of Adelaide in Australia, though I'm doing it externally so I can live and work in New Zealand while pursuing my education. My degree from Ferris has given me a very strong background in subjects like accounting, consumer behavior, and global markets, which has truly been a blessing in this endeavor! At this stage, I intend to stay in New Zealand for at least the next few years, helping some of these relatively new boutique Pinot Noir producers get their marketing, distribution, and exporting off the ground. Being part of the Honors Program at Ferris gave me the opportunity to live in Helen Ferris and become not only friends, but family with those who lived there with me. They supported me and pushed me in my academic endeavors, but were also there for me personally. We are, three years out of school, still an incredibly tight-knit community. I couldn't imagine what life would be like without having them in my life, even though we are currently thousands of miles away from each other. They are my very best friends! Aside from that, the Honors program staff - Maude and Tammy - were always a great support. Namely, they were a huge help when I did my study abroad in France my sophomore year, providing me with a scholarship. The cultural events that we were sent to on campus throughout the years were very enlightening as well. Not to mention the Honors Balls each year, the many clubs and organizations we were a part of, the excellent living arrangements, volunteer opportunities, and the other (infinite!) opportunities for learning beyond the classroom! |