The Office for Student Inclusion at the David Eccles School of Business recently launched the first episode of its student podcast. The Office for Student Inclusion Podcast highlights First Ascent and Opportunity Scholars alumni and their stories. 

This episode features First Ascent Scholar Eric Jara as he sits down for a friendly discussion with recent alum James Mordue. In this 30-minute podcast, Mordue highlights the lessons he’s learned, his path to getting his degree from the U, and what’s next for him. 

When starting at the University of Utah, Mordue saw college as something you were supposed to do, a next step after graduating from high school. But over the next five years, he learned that immersing yourself in the communities you find on-campus creates the best experiences and memories. Looking back, he now realizes that he took being on-campus for granted, a sentiment I’m sure we all relate to as the future of on-campus learning is still unclear. 

In his third year, Mordue picked up a second major, adding Marketing to his degree alongside Graphic Design. The rigorous course load made it hard for James to balance work, school, and personal life. When he finally found that balance in his fifth year, it made all the difference. James credits this newfound balance as the greatest lesson he learned during his time in college. Being a workaholic, he finds it important to pursue something other than just work or school. For him, it’s his band “After Thought” and finding days for himself.

As for his advice to current students, it’s simple but important: Don’t give up. While it may get difficult at times, it’s worth it to continue pursuing your passion. Mordue also emphasizes the power of loving yourself. While we tend to over criticize and fight ourselves, if you’re not on your own side then no one else can be. 

“If you take time to actually be comfortable with just being you, the world is a lot more vibrant,” Mordue said. 

What’s next for Mordue? He currently works in the graphic design field at Firetoss and dreams of making it big with his band. He finds it important to continually re-evaluate what he is doing to ensure he’s happy and fulfilled in his career and life. 

Listen to the full podcast at Eccles.link/OSI-podcast.

Your premier Eccles Experience. The Office for Student Inclusion (OSI) at the David Eccles School of Business strives to cultivate an inclusive environment through the development of student and community-focused initiatives. We are committed to ensuring all forms of diversity are understood and valued. Find more information at Eccles.link/OSI.