Cameron Spicer: Outstanding Graduating Student
Cameron Spicer of Erie, Colorado is the Outstanding Graduating Student in the Maine Business School. He will receive two bachelor’s degrees in financial economics and in business administration in finance. Spicer is a defenseman on the men’s ice hockey team. The Eagle Scout and Presidential Scholar received a Lavery Scholarship and Dale Lick Academic Achievement awards. His honors thesis is “The Role of the IEX in a Fragmented Market System.” As a student researcher, Spicer has collaborated with professors Tim Waring and Sharon Klein to conduct analysis of greenwashing and community solar projects in the United States, respectively. He is a member of the Student Athlete and Honors Student advisory committees, has participated in the Student Portfolio Investment Fund (SPIFFY) and is a leader in the American Sign Language Club. Spicer has started graduate work in the 4+1 program and will complete a master’s degree in information systems while competing in his final year of eligibility.
What difference has UMaine made in your life and in helping you reach your goals?
The University of Maine has deeply served me with its invaluable community and extensive resources. Despite extraordinary circumstances that delayed my arrival here, I was welcomed with open arms. UMaine has not only helped me reach my goals, but gone further to help me refine and define them. My time here has been instrumental in discovering more about myself as a student, as an athlete and as a human being.
Have you had an experience at UMaine that has changed or shaped the way you see the world?
Joining the Honors College here at the University of Maine has been an ongoing experience that has contributed to my view of the world. In my honors curriculum I have been exposed to peers and faculty that have simultaneously encouraged and challenged my intellect. Through my honors thesis process I have learned new skills and was given a powerful opportunity to reflect on my development through the honors reading list. The people here in Maine are amazing and my worldview is indebted to each and every person I have encountered here.
Why UMaine?
From my very first visit to UMaine in 2013 leading up until now, I have been infatuated by the UMaine community. Orono is a charming place full of people with interesting and unique stories. There’s a distinct humility about this place that has given it such a peaceful allure to me. UMaine and the communities in Orono have always felt like home to me.
How would you define the opportunities for student success at UMaine?
Unlimited. Students have so many existing options for success and there are so many more that have yet to be implemented. The University of Maine has everything someone could need to seize or create opportunity for themselves. As aforementioned, the Honors College was a fantastic place for me to grow and succeed academically, but it is different for everyone. UMaine is blessed to have some of the best faculty available in higher education in every program and are by and large the most valuable resource.
Have you worked closely with a professor or mentor who made your UMaine experience better?
Despite the lengthy list of people who have helped me, I am beholden to mention three specifically: Travis Blackmer, Stephen Jurich and Matt Murray. Blackmer has been a long-time role model, mentor and friend that has had a profound impact on my experience here. His compassion and drive to support students and their experience is unmatched. Professor Jurich has been my Honors thesis adviser and he has shown me unfathomable patience, guidance and support. Without him, I would not be where I am today. Murray was instrumental in my development as an athlete and supported me unconditionally. He gave me the strength and support to be resilient. Others worth mention and my dearest praise are Cristina Kerluke, Dave Townsend, Stefano Tijerina, Ron Roope and Ed Nadeau.
What advice do you have for incoming students to help them get off to the best start academically?
Use a planner! Journal often. Lean into your peers, professors and opportunities. Ask for help if and when you need it. Your long-run success as a student will reflect your level of care and commitment more than anything else, so don’t be afraid of what you don’t know. Staying highly organized was critical to my experience because of my involvement in so many aspects of the UMaine experience.
Contact: Margaret Nagle, nagle@maine.edu