Business Leaders of UConn (BLU) seeks to empower and advance underrepresented BIPOC students through various distinguished professional opportunities, while creating a strong community for minority students interested in business. The ultimate goal is to equip high-achieving, marginalized students with the skill-set, resources, mentorship, and network to accomplish their career goals.
Programming
Social Media
BLU Peer Mentorship Program – Overview
Our focus is to equip our students with the knowledge, exposure, career guidance, interview skills and training for their prospective industry and role. In order to execute this, we will host weekly interactive meetings and workshops on various topics each week. Meetings will be facilitated by our executive board and accomplished professionals in various industries.
Some of the topics we will review include (but are not limited to):
- Behavioral, case and technical interview preparation
- Communicating your story and passions in an interview or networking setting
- Financial analysis and modeling training
- Excel-powered data analysis
- Conveying relevant experiences on a resume to appeal to your audience
- Building your brand through a captivating LinkedIn profile
- Developing business acumen & structured problem-solving skills through case studies
- Soft skills training to navigate the recruitment process and workplace environment including but not limited to emotional intelligence, networking, leadership and more
- Reviewing and discussing current events
The Business Leaders of UConn (BLU) Peer Mentorship Program is designed to foster the personal, academic, and professional growth of students at UConn by connecting experienced student leaders with those seeking guidance and support. As a mentor in this program, your role is pivotal in shaping the future success of your mentees. Below is a detailed overview of the responsibilities, expectations, and opportunities associated with the mentor role.
Role and Responsibilities
Mentors in the BLU Peer Mentorship Program serve as trusted guides, supporting their mentees through various aspects of their academic and professional journeys. Your responsibilities will include:
- Providing Guidance
- Supporting Professional Growth
- Checking Progress
- Encouraging Accountability
- Offering Emotional Support
- Develop your own leadership, communication, and coaching skills
- Expand your professional network within UConn and beyond
- Make a lasting impact on your mentee’s personal and professional journey
- Receive recognition for your contribution to BLU’s mission and values
- Gain a supportive figure who provides guidance and advice.
- Receive tailored support in achieving academic and professional goals.
- Build confidence in their own abilities to succeed in college and beyond.
Join Us
Meetings: Wednesdays at 6 PM in BUSN 203
Missed us this week? Contact: uconnblu@gmail.com
Dress Code for Meetings: Casual
Dues: None
Meet the Executive Board
President - Izarriah Ariana Melgar
Hi! My name is Izzy Melgar, and I am the President of Business Leaders of UConn (BLU). I am a junior studying Finance with a minor in Real estate and I am looking to go into Financial Planning for a CRE company. Being a member of BLU has contributed significantly to my professional involvement and experiences. As President, I have had the opportunity to engage with students, plan and execute workshops, network with alumni and professionals, and connect students to various opportunities. My favorite thing about being on this team is getting to work side by side with these dedicated student leaders. A fun fact about me is that I am sort of an expert in thermal insulation.
Vice President - Joseph Roberts
Hello! My name is Joseph Roberts, and I currently serve as the Vice President of Business Leaders of UConn (BLU). I am a senior finance major with a strong passion for venture capital, which I plan to pursue after graduating in Fall 2024.
My leadership journey on campus began with Hillside Ventures, where I successfully led the expansion from a single fund to four, spanning diverse asset classes including venture capital, private equity, and real estate. Additionally, as Vice President of the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), I have been dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion within the business community, fostering a more equitable environment for underrepresented students and professionals. Professionally, I have gained valuable experience through internships at Connecticut Innovations, Loeb.nyc, and General Catalyst
Since transferring to UConn, I have actively contributed to BLU’s mission of creating a welcoming and supportive environment for minority students within the School of Business. Moving forward, I am dedicated to continuing the work of the founding team, ensuring that students are equipped with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary for success in their business and finance careers. Fun fact, I’ve rolled perfect bowling games (12 strikes in a row) 2 times!
Chief Marketing Officer - Amador(AJ) Muniz
Hello, my name is Amador Muñiz (AJ ), I’m a first-year student pursuing my degree in accounting. I serve as the Chief Marketing Officer for Business Leaders of UConn and my role in BLU is to oversee all marketing projects to bring exposure to BLU. Specifically, I assist by marketing our club to students who are underrepresented. A fun fact about me is I have six sisters and no brothers. After college, I aspire to be an accountant. I’m honored to be a part of BLU’s E-Board because it has opened internship opportunities for me and allowed me to be a leader for students on campus. I am dedicated to continuing providing guidance and mentorship to any UConn student who is interested in developing their business acumen.
Chief Operating Officer - Erika Cabuco
Hi, my name is Erika Cabuco. I am the Secretary of Business Leaders of UConn (BLU). I study Economics with a minor in accounting and am aspiring to become an Accountant. As Secretary, I serve as the main point of contact between the executive board and our members. I manage communications, which ensures smooth operations and helps build strong connections with our members, making them feel valued and engaged. My favorite thing about being on this team is being given the opportunity to utilize my experiences and resources to lead members to success. A fun fact about me is that I was born in the Philippines and am fluent in 2 languages.
Chief Financial Officer - Jeff Rosberg
Chief Relations Officer- Eyiram Abla
Hello, my name is Eyiram Abla, and I’m currently a junior majoring in Economics. I serve as the Chief Relations Officer for Business Leaders of UConn (BLU). In this role, I am responsible for reaching out to organizations on campus to foster collaborations, overseeing the mentorship program and external relations, ensuring smooth communication and coordination between all parties, and effectively working with my E-Board members. A fun fact about me is that, I lived in Ghana for 10 years.
After college, I aspire to become a Financial Analyst and eventually work my way up into Wealth Management. What I love most about BLU is the opportunity to bring in different companies for information sessions, helping guide students by providing valuable resources, connecting them with professionals and alumni, and supporting their growth both professionally and personally.
Chief of Corporate Affairs - Jordan Middlebrooks
Hello, my name is Jordan Middlebrooks, and I am a junior majoring in Business Management with a Pre-Law track. I serve as the Chief of Corporate Affairs for Business Leaders of UConn, where I oversee our peer mentorship program, develop and launch a professional mentorship program, connect with corporate partners for workshops and internship opportunities, and maintain existing corporate relationships. Additionally, I help plan future semesters and network with alumni. After college, I aspire to become a lawyer. Being part of BLU’s E-Board is an honor because it allows me to collaborate with other student leaders and have a direct impact on our members by shaping programs and events. A fun fact about me is that I’ve played the alto saxophone for over ten years.
Chief of Projects - Joy Muiruri
Hi, my name is Joy Muiruri, I am the Chief of Projects of Business Leaders of UConn (BLU). I study Communications with a concentration in advertising and a minor in digital marketing as I am an aspiring Advertising Executive. My role as Chief of Projects is to ensure that all events, collabs, and major projects run smoothly. I am glad to be a part of BLU because it has given me a community of like-minded, driven individuals who are focused on developing professionally in a space for minorities. A fun fact about me is that I am teaching myself the electric guitar.
Recruiting Lead - Jahshaun Grant
Hey everybody! My name is Jahshaun Grant, I am a first-year student studying Electrical Engineering with a strong interest in accounting as a minor. I serve as the Recruiting Lead for Business Leaders of UConn. I am responsible for developing recruitment strategies and presentations for outreach to expand BLU’s membership. After college, I plan to pursue a career in Engineering Management. My favorite part about BLU is that I can gain professional work-ready skills and build my own identity within UConn while also meeting and connecting with many people of diverse backgrounds. A fun fact about me is that I am a first-generation college student, and I have a strong passion for the sport of basketball.
Partners
School of Business Diversity Initiatives
This office focuses on the development of strategic diversity initiatives and partnerships within the School of Business to create a diverse and inspiring environment for excellence in teaching and learning. Their programs support all students with an emphasis on underrepresented and first generational students by providing resources that enhance the value of their degree and make them more competitive in the business world.
Learn More