Class of 2024 profile: Evan Brage

Evan Brage arrived at the Robert J. Trulakse, Sr. College of Business with an open mind. 

While he had an interest in statistics and solving problems, it was courses through the college’s Finance Department that truly captured his imagination and pointed him in a direction he hadn’t imagined for himself before arriving on campus. 

Today, Brage, who grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado, but whose family now lives in Madison, Wisconsin, is preparing to graduate with a degree in business administration with an emphasis in finance while continuing his journey for an advanced degree through the Accelerated Crosby MBA program at Trulaske.  

Why did you choose Mizzou?

I chose Mizzou because of the incredible opportunities provided to students. But once here, I began to realize the benefits of the real-world experiences that are built into so many of the academic programs, helping me to develop the professional skills I’ll use for the rest of my life. Coming to Mizzou was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I am grateful for the assistance and encouragement the people here have given me.   

What motivated you to pursue your field of study at Trulaske?

I wanted to leave my future open so I could discover what I loved to do once I was here. I started at Mizzou really interested in statistics and solving problems, but through the finance program I have been able to adapt my strengths to a field that has numerous opportunities available.  

What person at Trulaske played an instrumental role in your college experience and what lessons did you learn from that person?

Kate Elmore, coordinator of undergraduate recruitment, has been an extremely helpful resource, mentor and friend throughout my career at Mizzou. She helped me feel comfortable at Trulaske. Kate was my advisor for the Trulaske College of Business Student Council and Camp Trulaske, which provided me with many leadership opportunities over the past four years.  

What business class at Trulaske made the biggest impression on you and why?

Finance 4020 with Assistant Professor Matteo Binfarè had the biggest impact on my academic career. Even though it was an investments course, the material and teaching style that Matteo shared with us was extremely relevant to real-world applications and challenged me to take a deeper dive into learning more about financial concepts.  

Was there an obstacle that you had to overcome while a student at Trulaske and if so, how did you overcome it?

Before coming to college, I moved several times during high school. While that was tough, it helped prepare me for the changes I would face in college and made me feel more confident with moving and working in new places. I was able to learn a lot from those experiences and now after four years at Mizzou, my life is about to change again and I couldn’t be more ready for the next chapter.  

What kind of leadership skills have you gained at the Trulaske College of Business?

I am an active member in [professional business fraternity] Alpha Kappa Psi, STUCO and Camp Trulaske, where I have had the opportunity to lead team project and recruit new members eager to get their start at the business college.  

What hands-on learning opportunities at Trulaske have helped you the most and how will you apply them to your business career?

I think the leadership positions in my organizations have helped me tremendously. I have real data that I can share with employers and projects that I can build on in the future. I have developed confidence in my ability to lead my peers in real-world scenarios. This has all transferred well through my internships and academic career at Trulaske.  

What are your favorite Mizzou memories?

Rushing the Faurot Field after the Tigers beat Kansas State, business school field days and walking into Cornell to see 20 friends all around the couches each day I go to class.  

Looking back on your college career, what are the biggest lessons you’ve learned?

Start searching for internships early and start even earlier for full-time opportunities. Your peers will separate themselves by how early and where they secure internships, leading to early job offers and security upon graduation. If I could do it all over again, I would start my freshman year actively looking for opportunities to build my resume and gain experience.  

What advice would you give incoming Mizzou students?

Take advantage of every opportunity you are given. I have said yes to joining organizations, exploring downtown and making new friends that have changed my life. I have met people who will be in my wedding when I am older, and I have opportunities ahead of me just from trying something new and getting out of my comfort zone. I am the most outgoing person you will meet and I still get nervous. Be yourself and push yourself.  

What’s next for you?

I am working part-time as an intern with Alexander Forrest Investments and pursuing my MBA through the Accelerated Crosby MBA program at Trulaske.