Transfer Business Student Scales Up

After completing high school in the South Hills of Pittsburgh, Luke attended a semester of college before taking a break to enter the workforce. He felt drawn to gain hands-on experience so he could build confidence and skills before committing to a college degree.
 
With several years of work experience under his belt, Luke pursued an associate degree in business at Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) and graduated in August 2025. Just a few weeks later, he was on the Bluff pursuing a double major in finance and entrepreneurship and innovation at the Palumbo-Donahue School of Business.
 
“I realized I needed that real-world experience first,” said Luke. “Going back to school at CCAC and now at Duquesne, I just feel that I'm at a place where I can be highly successful and springboard from here.”
 
Originally interested in supply chain management, Luke discovered a strong interest in finance—particularly financial modeling, capital allocation and long-term value creation. 

A horizon-expanding education

Having worked in warehouse operations, inventory management and contractor sales, Luke developed a firsthand understanding of how operational decisions affect costs, margins and overall business performance—concepts he now explores further through finance coursework.

“My first semester was busy but rewarding,” he said. “The courses were challenging, but they were also practical and directly connected to how businesses actually operate.”

Luke credits mentorship from Michelle Curry, his Student Success Coach, and Staci Offutt, director of the Center for Excellence in Entrepreneurship. Curry helped guide him through the transfer process and align his academic path with long-term career goals, while Offutt encouraged him to explore entrepreneurial opportunities beyond the classroom.

Through his entrepreneurship coursework, Luke participated in the Duquesne New Venture Challenge (DNVC), the Palumbo-Donahue School of Business’ nationally recognized startup competition.

Luke’s concept examined how technology could support the growing functional wellness industry by helping individuals better understand and manage aspects of their health and well-being. Although the idea did not advance in the competition, the experience provided valuable feedback and strengthened his interest in entrepreneurship.

“I was impressed by how supportive the faculty and staff were,” Luke said. “They genuinely encourage students to test ideas and think beyond the classroom.”

Building connections and leading with heart

Together with entrepreneurship classmates, Luke designed, produced and sold a collection of witty t-shirts during the Valentine’s Day season. In a separate project, Luke and his cohort developed Heart to Heart, a card game intended to help people connect on a deeper level. In the game, players take turns answering thought-provoking questions and earn Heart Tokens to recognize moments of honesty, vulnerability and kindness.

“I saw a need for students to foster connection, so we developed a solution,” he said.
The game was sold across campus and received high praise from students and faculty for spreading kindness, openness and understanding.

Luke’s empathy and ability to connect with others carries over into weekend work with the Allegheny County Warmline where he handles incoming calls. Luke actively listens to callers, empathizes with their concerns and empowers individuals to choose their path to wellness and recovery.

Prepared for anything

Inspired by his experiences in and out of the classroom, Luke would eventually like to work with startups or early-stage ventures. In the near term, he plans to begin his career in finance while continuing to develop entrepreneurial ideas of his own.

“I plan to begin my career in finance and gain practical experience in the field,” Luke said. “At the same time, I’ll continue developing business ideas and exploring opportunities to bring them to market.”

When he’s not in class, Luke practices cardistry—a hobby he picked up after receiving a magic set from his uncle—and hikes, practices yoga, strength-trains and studies foreign languages. Luke also enjoys opportunities to encourage other students who may be considering a transfer.

“If you're hesitant about transferring to Duquesne, don’t worry,” Luke said. “The support here has been excellent, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity. I would encourage anyone considering a transfer to take that step.”