FARMINGTON, ME (May 9, 2022)—The University of Maine at Farmington, the first public institution of higher education in Maine, has helped generations of Maine families find their passion and follow their chosen career paths.
Eric Parent, UMF graduate of the Class of 2022 from Scarborough, was looking for a college with small classes, strong faculty mentors, and top recreational skiing opportunities that would help him do that. He found that and more at Farmington. Of course, it helped that his mother, Suzanne–a 1991 UMF graduate; father, James–a 1989 UMF graduate; and older brother, Andrew–a 2021 UMF graduate; are also proud UMF alumni.
Eric Parent, UMF graduate of the Class of 2022 (third from left,) joined by his family with their diplomas at the recent Farmington graduation. (From left to right) Eric’s family are all Farmington graduates, including his mother, Suzanne–a 1991 UMF graduate; father, James–a 1989 UMF graduate; and older brother, Andrew–a 2021 UMF graduate.
Like any young adult, Parent visited a number of campuses during his college search.
“My parents were very supportive of my personal decision,” said Parent. “But I always knew I would go to Farmington. It was just the right fit for me.”
A business economics major with a minor in data analytics, he connected with his professors who helped him hone his skills during his undergraduate years and obtain an internship that paralleled his interests.
“It was a pleasure to have worked with Eric,” said Sheena Bunnell, professor of business economics and director of the Maine Health Research Institute. “He worked as my research assistant on an economic healthcare project and was professional, engaged and receptive to feedback throughout the project.”
Last summer, Parent served as an intern for Hannaford in category management where he used data-driven analysis to provide optimal supply for customer demand of products from local breweries throughout the northeast.
“The internship experience was a great way to make the connection between my education and my career path,” said Parent. “I’m excited about the future and eager to learn new skills while applying what I have learned at UMF.”
In addition to his academic experience at UMF, Parent also served on Student Senate, played intramural sports and served on several student activity committees. After graduation, Parent will be working for Hannaford as a merchandising category analyst.
More on University of Maine at Farmington
A nationally-recognized public liberal arts college known for its commitment to student success, UMF provides a challenging yet supportive environment to prepare students for both careers and further study. Rooted in a tradition of teacher preparation, UMF offers top quality programs in the arts and sciences, teacher preparation, and pre-professional studies. Located in the heart of Maine’s four-season outdoor recreational region, UMF is a welcoming, close-knit academic community that prepares students for engaged citizenship, enriching professional careers and an enduring love of learning.
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EDITOR’S NOTE:
Image: https://www.umf.maine.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/1/2022/05/RP212-061.jpg
Photo Caption: Eric Parent, UMF graduate of the Class of 2022 (third from left,) joined by his family with their diplomas at the recent Farmington graduation. (From left to right) Eric’s family are all Farmington graduates, including his mother, Suzanne–a 1991 UMF graduate; father, James–a 1989 UMF graduate; and older brother, Andrew–a 2021 UMF graduate.
Photo Credit: UMF Image