Undergraduate Dual Connecting the Dots: How Curiosity Fueled a Journey in Business and Cybersecurity

Riley Worrall ’27 (WSM/IST) came to Syracuse University with a passion to pursue business. Worrall shares how she was inspired to learn more about the industry. “I didn’t know exactly what I wanted to major in, just that line of work. Now, as a sophomore, I’m thankful for the broadness of my management major and the freedom it provides me,” she states.

In addition to studying management at the Whitman School, Worrall is a dual major at the School of Information Studies (iSchool). She added her information management major in the spring of her first year after taking Information Technologies based on a friend’s recommendation. The introductory course sparked Worrall’s interest in cybersecurity, and she says that her second major is an “option I didn’t even think was available, but that makes Whitman special— here, they encourage constant growth and the exploration of other studies.”

Outside of the classroom, Worrall applies her business learnings and works for Slice Consulting. She says, “Joining Slice made me realize what that field is and has opened up many opportunities for me.” One key opportunity is the Deloitte Consulting Apprenticeship Program she was selected for last February. After completing a case study that analyzed 10,000 observations of data, Worrall and her group presented it to Deloitte representatives and were finalists in the competition.

“It was such a cool experience, and I can totally see myself at a ‘Big Four’ firm because of the energy,” she says. Worrall is quite involved on campus and eager to give back the same support she receives from the Orange family. As a Whitman ambassador, Worrall enjoys hosting tours for prospective applicants and getting them excited about her home college. For those already on campus,Worrall happily greets them as an orientation leader, explaining, “I love SU’s Welcome Week. Connecting with new students and their families is such a meaningful experience.”

Although she appreciates how busy her many extracurricular activities keep her, Worrall is excited for an adventure away from campus when she participates in the Whitman London Core Program this spring.

“My dual advisor encouraged me to apply, and I couldn’t believe this option offered courses that would allow me to graduate on time. Whitman’s support system is truly great!” she says.

Worrall is excited to share her love for Syracuse University as she embarks on her journey abroad. “Since being here, I can’t imagine attending any other school,” she says. “You are not the same person as when you first start at Whitman, and I’ve embraced that positive change.”

By Margaret Brown