Jamie Besendorfer is a Marketing and Entrepreneurship student from Garden City, NY. She shares why he chose to attend Catholic University and the Busch School, and what advice she has for prospective students.

Why did you choose to attend Catholic University and the Busch School?

"Every summer since I was eleven I attended Camp Bernadette: a Catholic faith-based sleepaway camp in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. The sense of community and support that existed at camp was like nothing I had ever experienced before. When I stepped onto Catholic’s campus for the first time I felt that same sense of belonging. Just like my wonderful time at Camp Bernadette, the Catholic faith sets the tone for our campus life. 

Maloney Hall is commonly described as being Ivy on the outside and Google on the inside. I chose to attend the Busch School not only because of the beautiful new building that houses the business students but the unique learning opportunity I would have. I found it fascinating how the Busch School professors come from a diverse set of backgrounds. Some took an academic route, while others were entrepreneurs or came from the corporate world."

What's been your favorite part of being a student at Catholic University?

"The Catholic community is so strong and like nothing I have ever experienced. No matter your race, religion, or background, there is a spot for you on campus. Everyone supports one another and recognizes that an individual success is a success for the entire community.

All business majors during their first semester of freshman year take a class called The Vocation of Business (MGT 118). One of the assignments is for you to start your own business. I decided to start a fashion focused TikTok account. My company ended up being highly successful. In less than a year, I was able to accumulate over 40,000 followers and received millions of views on my content. I ultimately helped bring in over $300,000 in sales. Throughout the entire process, I received endless support and encouragement from my current and previous professors. I was grateful for the time my professors gave me to discuss my business and brainstorm expansion possibilities.

Along with knowledge I learned in the classroom, the support the Busch School offered was a significant factor in my success. I have been so grateful to be able to share my story with other students. I believe in the Catholic community and know someone would do the same for me so I am so honored to be a part. The Catholic University community is my favorite part of being a student here."

What advice would you give to prospective students?

"No matter what you do, give 110%. Catholic University and the D.C. area offers endless opportunities at your fingertips. The entire community is so encouraging and helps others succeed. The key to success is taking advantage of all those opportunities. No matter how small a project may seem at the moment, you never know what it could lead to. Attending a small-sized school like Catholic has allowed me the opportunity to make personal connections and get that one-on-one advice and career development in a loving and supportive environment."