Breaking the mold: Malerie Buck
“Business has always been a big part of my life,” states NMCC business administration student Malerie Buck. Her parents own two businesses, the Maine Malt House and Buck Farms in Mapleton. Malerie has childhood memories of growing up on the family farm. “I worked on the farm racking the potatoes. I also remember picking rocks, hay and straw, and driving trucks and tractors.” Her parents encouraged her to work on the farm, which, in addition to learning the value of hard work, gave her the opportunity to work closely with her father, which she greatly enjoyed.
Prior to her acceptance at NMCC, Malerie took classes in the business program at the Presque Isle Regional Career and Technical Center while she was in high school. “I got a feel for business.” She learned a lot about the field, which helped her when she started in the business program at NMCC. She also has been employed at various local businesses including JCPenney and the Mapleton Recreation Department. She is currently employed as an instructor at The Maine Dance Academy in Caribou and as a secretary at Impact Auto in Presque Isle.
Malerie chose NMCC for several reasons. “I wanted to stay in the area and save money.” She also has several family members who have attended the college. “I have always heard great things about NMCC.”
Malerie has enjoyed her time at NMCC. “Everyone is very friendly and willing to help you.” Several of the classes that she is currently taking are online. Although her classes do not meet on campus, she still has contact with her instructors. “My instructors email me every week about assignments and to check in and offer support.” She has enjoyed learning all aspects of the business world as well as how different businesses operate.
Although males typically dominate the business field, Malerie states that there are several females in her classes and that the ratio of female to male students is well balanced. “Everyone is treated equally.” Gender has never been an issue for Malerie. “I have never felt that I couldn’t go as far as someone else in the business field.”
Malerie will be graduating with her associate of applied science degree in May of 2018. She plans on continuing her education at NMCC after she graduates and pursuing a degree in Medical Assisting. Malerie enjoys interacting with people. A career in medical assisting will give her the opportunity to help others.
She believes that she will use the knowledge that she has acquired in business in the medical field. “Medical Assisting combines Business with hands-on patient care. It incorporates both of my interests.” As a medical assistant, Malerie likes how she will be able to do office work in addition to certain medical procedures.
Malerie offers advice for females who may be considering a career in Business. “Even if it’s not what you are going for, it’s good knowledge to have. The concepts can tie into any program.”
Malerie offers tips to help other students be successful, including the importance of asking for help and staying focused. “As long as you put the time and effort into what you are doing, you will succeed.”
Quick Facts:
General & Operations Managers
Job Duties
Plan, direct, or coordinate the operations of public or private sector organizations.
Skills Needed
Active listening, coordination, monitoring, social perceptiveness, and speaking.
2016 National Average Pay
$47.74/hour; $99,310/year
Projected Job Growth: 2016-2026
5-8%
Source: O’NET Online (2016)
NMCC 2016 Business Administration Graduate Success Rate (Employed, Continuing Education, or both)
100%