ORONO, Maine -- Samuel Tremblay of Quebec City is the Outstanding Graduating International Student for the Maine Business School. A business administration student majoring in management, Tremblay is a tutor, mentor, Maine Business School ambassador and president of the UMaine chapter of the Beta Gamma Sigma honor society.

Fueled by a passion for sports, he is a kicker for the UMaine Football Team, where he was a finalist for the Fred Mitchell Award, and is the representative for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. He played on Canada's Junior National Team at the International Federation of American Football's World Junior Championship and served as a captain. After receiving his bachelor's degree in May, he plans to stay at UMaine and pursue a master's degree while continuing to play football.  

Why did you choose to come to UMaine?

I chose UMaine because it felt like home. On my different visits, the coaches, staff, professors and employees were all so nice and caring; I wanted to be part of something like that.

Describe any research, internships or scholarly pursuits in which you have participated. How have they prepared you for future opportunities in your chosen field?

Last semester, I had the chance to be part of "Introduction to Topics in Management" (MGT 290), a class where we worked with Aroma Joe's. Three groups of six received different prompts, and we had to research to come up with three suggestions for real-life issues. It was rewarding to research and propose solutions for tangible business challenges.

Have there been other students who supported and inspired you or exposed you to something new? 

In my time at UMaine, I was fortunate enough to have two mentors. Anne Simon, a former basketball player, was my mentor in my first semester. We both came from different countries and had different first languages. She helped me adapt to college. Aidan Cadogan was my teammate in my first year. He helped me navigate my first year of college football and still helps me to this day. He also introduced me to the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. Their support inspired me to become a mentor myself, ensuring the next generation of students feels as welcome as I did.

Have you collaborated with a mentor, professor or role model who made your time at UMaine better?

The entire UMaine Athletic's staff and business school faculty had a significant impact on my time at UMaine. They always took the time to help and guide me in the right direction. Samantha Wheeler is one of the Athletic's staff who helped me during my time here. She helped me adapt to college and made sure I stayed on the right track throughout my degree. I am grateful for her continuous support.

What has coming to UMaine enabled you to explore beyond academics?

I am part of different clubs and organizations. These helped me make new friends, get out of my comfort zone and gain experience in different fields.

What experiences have you had at UMaine that really highlight the ingenuity of Mainers?

In football, we have the chance to be followed by many people. Every chance I have to talk to a fan after a game or during a community service event, I am always amazed by the resilience and the kindness of Mainers. We are lucky to be supported by so many great people.

Did you have an experience at UMaine that shaped or changed how you see the world?

The first time I stepped into an NCAA Division I football game, one of my dreams came true. It made me realize that if you really want something, you work hard, and you believe in yourself, anything is possible.

Describe UMaine in one word and explain. 

Meaningful.

My time at UMaine has been shaped by many memories, lessons and life-changing events. All of these have made me who I am today. I am grateful for all these meaningful things that happened.

What's on the horizon? What are your plans for after you graduate? 

I look forward to starting my master's next fall at UMaine, where I hope to further my leadership and represent the Black Bear community on and off the field.