Now that we have alumni, it is a lot of fun to hear about the different places they have been and where they are going. This month, I was able to catch up with Jeri Boren, an inaugural graduate of the Luckyday Program.
Luckyday: Can you go over briefly why you are in New York, and who you are working for?
Jeri Boren: I graduated with a Fashion Merchandising degree from the College of Business. I always wanted to be a buyer for a high-end, luxury retailer in the fashion industry. I am currently working for Saks Fifth Avenue in the corporate headquarters as an assitant buyer. I work specifically in the Fashion Jewelry department.
LD: How did Luckyday affect your time as a student at Southern Miss?
JB: Luckyday exposed me to several different opportunities to exercise leadership skills through community service projects, activities, and leadership positions held within the Luckyday program. I met some of my favorite people in the whole world and closest friends to this day through the Luckyday program. By living with fellow Luckyday students my freshman year, I formed friendships that will be cherished forever.
LD: How did Luckyday help you get where you are now?
JB: I was enrolled in the Luckyday class my senior year, and we were required to attend the Career Fair on campus. I went reluctantly, never imagining to speak to anyone that I would really want to work for. When I saw that Saks Incorporated was listed, I went straight to their booth. I spoke with a former USM alum who turned out to be the Senior Vice President of Human Resources & Talent Acquisition at our support center in Jackson, MS. They were recruiting for IT and human resource positions, but after I told him my major and what I wanted to do, he informed me of the Executive Excellence Progam at Saks. After several interviews and a trip to New York for the final round of interviews, I was informed in May that I was accepted into the Executive Excellence program to become a buyer. I moved here in July to begin the program. I completed the program in January and started as an Assistant Buyer in February. With all that said, I can thank Luckyday for "requiring" me to attend the Career Fair where I actually was given a great opportunity to accomplish something I have always dreamnt of doing.
LD: How has your experience with Luckyday affected life after college?
JB: Luckyday allowed me to earn a college degree. Without the support of the Luckyday program, it would have been much more difficult (coming from a family of five children) for me to receive the education that I needed for my future.
LD: If you could give any students advice about college - what would it be?
JB: Advice to students...enjoy each moment of your college career because it goes by entirely too fast! Take time to develop friendships and relationships with the people around you. It's worth the effort, as this is what you will remember the most. You won't remember each test or lecture (do try to exceed and do your best in these things of course), but you will remember the people and the activities you completed together. You're making a memory, so make it a good one!
LD: Any additional comments you'd like to say to students?
JB: Always remember where you came from and what you represent. Be yourself and don't allow anyone to let you believe you are incapable of accomplishing your dreams. Wherever life takes you, be proud of your education at Southern Miss and represent our school well!
