Trulaske freshmen recognized for outstanding leadership

Five students from the Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business were named as Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK) Distinguished 14 Freshmen at Mizzou. The recognition honors first-year students who have distinguished themselves among their peers in extracurriculars, academics and involvement. 

ODK is a national leadership honor society composed of students who have completed 60-plus academic credits and demonstrated outstanding leadership across campus and the larger Columbia community. To encourage leadership among first-year students at Mizzou, ODK created the Top 14 Distinguished Freshmen Program several years ago.  

Meet the Trulaske honorees:

ALLIE BYERGO

Chesterfield, Missouri
Finance and Economics

Tell us more about your extracurriculars, academics and involvement at Mizzou. 

I am a member of the Cornell Leadership Program, a student ambassador for the Trulaske College of Business and serve as the finance pledge educator for the Alpha Kappa Psi professional business fraternity on campus. Outside of Trulaske, I am director of facility operations for the Delta Delta Delta sorority and will serve this year as a leader for Summer Welcome at Mizzou. 

Why is it important for you to take on leadership roles?

Leadership roles are an amazing way to gain real world experiences while still in college. Through delegating tasks, leading meetings and organizing events, I am confident that I have developed skills I will take into my future that I couldn’t have learned in a traditional class. 

Who is someone you look up to and what have you learned about leadership from them? 

I look up to my dad because he is a business owner and has taught me so much about leadership as well as running a company. I admire his compassion, hard work and skill when it comes to business, and I hope to be a leader like him one day.

Why are you seeking a career in business?

I have had a passion for business as well as math throughout my whole life. Because of this, I decided on a finance and economics emphasis, and I am excited to see where my career takes me. 

What have you learned about yourself through your college experience so far?

I have learned that I tend to procrastinate, and I am working on ways to avoid putting things off. I have also learned a lot about my leadership style and strengths that I will take with me throughout my life. 

What is one fact about yourself that most people don’t know?

I was a competitive dancer for most of my life. Since coming to college, I haven’t continued dance, but it was a huge part of my childhood and an experienced that helped shaped the person I am today. 

What is your personal motto or a philosophy you try to live by?

My personal motto is “everything happens for a reason.” When I start to get in my head or get stressed out, I always remind myself that everything will work itself out in time.

ALYSSA COLEMAN

Kansas City, Missouri
Finance   

Tell us more about your extracurriculars, academics and involvement at Mizzou. 

I am a member of the Trulaske College of Business Student Council, a senator for the Legion of Black Collegians and a member of the Diverse Student Association. I am also a proud member of the Cornell Leadership Program and the Vasey Academy.  

Why is it important for you to take on leadership roles? 

Ever since I was young, I have gravitated towards leadership roles. I have always liked helping people and feel the best way for me to do that is by leading others towards success. I am more comfortable spearheading situations because I believe being a leader is my calling.  

Who is someone you look up to and what have you learned about leadership from them? 

I look up to Harriet Tubman. The way she escaped slavery once and continually came back to help other slave families escape is so admirable. She is one of the most influential people in my life because she is so selfless and inspiring.  

Why are you seeking a career in business? 

I have always felt a calling to business ever since I was young and know I want to live in New York after I graduate. I am still trying to figure out which degree I plan to pursue and what company I want to work for, but once I figure that out, I plan to be on the CEO track.  

What have you learned about yourself through your college experience so far? 

I have learned that I need to take in-person classes. I have also learned the importance of networking and keeping my LinkedIn active to attract more opportunities. 

What is one fact about yourself that most people don’t know? 

Most people don’t know I’ve been a vegetarian for five years.  

What is your personal motto or a philosophy you try to live by? 

I love the Erin Hanson quote “There is freedom waiting for you, On the breezes of the sky, and you ask, ’What if I fall?’ Oh, but my darling, what if you fly?” because it reminds me to take risks. Outcomes cannot be predicted all the time and the fear of not knowing can hold me and others back. Risks make life more exciting.  

MAXWELL MEYSTRIK

Moberly, Missouri
Mathematics and Finance

Tell us more about your extracurriculars, academics and involvement at Mizzou.

I am involved in the Cornell Leadership Program (CLP), TigerQuant and Alpha Kappa Psi (AKPsi), and I am a Trulaske College of Business student ambassador. Within these organizations, there is room for leadership, improving technical skills and expanding my network. 

Why is it important for you to take on leadership roles?

I find leadership roles to be beneficial both socially and professionally. Being a leader within an organization provides opportunities to meet all members, experience diverse thoughts and ideas, and connect with professionals from all fields. Such roles also allow for testing out leadership styles to prepare for life after college. 

Who is someone you look up to and what have you learned about leadership from them?

I look up to my sister Maddie Meystrik, a senior accounting student at Mizzou. Maddie has been my automatic mentor since day one on campus, and I am lucky to be involved in CLP, AKP, and the Trulaske Student Ambassadors with her. The best leadership advice she has given me is that effective leaders are not overextended and they are sure to get plenty of sleep. Thank you, Maddie!

Why are you seeking a career in business?

I am seeking a career in business, specifically quantitative finance, due to its dynamic nature. A career in business allows one to specialize in what interests them and provides opportunities for lifelong curiosity. I love learning and a field that encourages staying up to date and continuously expanding skills intrigues me.

What have you learned about yourself through your college experience so far?

I have learned my limit of balancing extracurriculars with academics and that allocating my time wisely benefits not only myself but also those around me.

What is one fact about yourself that most people don’t know?

I started learning magic from my grandfather when I was seven. It has since turned into my small business and a lifelong hobby.

What is your personal motto or a philosophy you try to live by?

Do not fret over things outside your control.

BROCK SCHOFIELD

Jefferson City, Missouri
Accounting

Tell us more about your extracurriculars, academics and involvement at Mizzou.

I am actively engaged in the Christian Campus House at Mizzou, participating in small groups,

Bible studies and Wednesday night services. At the Trulaske College of Business, I devote my time to the Association of Accounting Students, Beta Alpha Psi accounting fraternity and the Cornell Leadership Program.

Why is it important for you to take on leadership roles?

I firmly believe that leadership is nurtured rather than inherited. I believe in deliberately challenging oneself, stepping into unfamiliar territory and extracting lessons to grow both as an

individual and a leader. College offers a prime opportunity to immerse myself in leadership roles, facilitating extensive learning and personal growth.

Who is someone you look up to and what have you learned about leadership from them?

Someone I deeply admire and look up to is my father, who is the fire chief in Jefferson City. He exemplifies unwavering dedication in safeguarding our community where leadership decisions carry immense weight, often a matter of life and death. Observing him, I've learned the importance of consistently delivering one's best effort, regardless of circumstances, and the significance of perpetual learning. He’s also taught me the importance of nurturing and maintaining personal relationships.

Why are you seeking a career in business?

My inclination towards a career in business traces back to my early years. From running a neighborhood lemonade stand to offering snow shoveling services door-to-door, and avidly watching TV shows like Shark Tank, I've always been drawn to the dynamic world of commerce. This inherent interest fuels my desire to pursue a career in business, where I aim to leverage my passion and drive to contribute positively to the field.

What have you learned about yourself through your college experience so far?

The more you study, the better the result will be. Join organizations and clubs and truly apply yourself, because it’s not worth going in halfway, and the unlimited ice cream at [campus dining hall] Plaza 900 should not be a daily activity.

What is one fact about yourself that most people don’t know?

I once scared off a wild bear on a hiking trip.

What is your personal motto or a philosophy you try to live by?

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11

JUSTIS TAYLOR

Sikeston, Missouri  
Management 

Tell us more about your extracurriculars, academics and involvement at Mizzou.

At Mizzou, I wear multiple hats with pride. As a collegiate cheerleader, I participate in all athletic events. I am a part of the Alumni Association Student Board (AASB), where I help facilitate campus traditions such as Mizzou ’18, Mizzou ’39, Tiger Walk, First Roar and Senior Send-Off. I am also a tour guide at Mizzou. At the Trulaske College of Business, I am a student ambassador and a proud member of the Cornell Leadership Program and the Vasey Academy. 

Why is it important for you to take on leadership roles?

Taking on leadership roles is important to me because they offer opportunities for personal growth, skill development and making a positive impact. As a leader, I can inspire and motivate others, contribute to the success of a team or organization, and help foster a sense of community and collaboration. Leadership roles also allow me to challenge myself, expand my abilities and learn from successes and failures. Ultimately, I can actively contribute to shaping a better future for myself and those around me by taking on leadership positions.

Who is someone you look up to and what have you learned about leadership from them?

I deeply admire my mom for her selfless leadership qualities. She consistently prioritizes the needs of others above her own, creating a supportive and inclusive environment wherever she goes. Through her attentive listening and empathy, she uplifts those around her, fostering a sense of belonging and value. My mom leads by example, demonstrating the importance of integrity, compassion and humility. She has taught me that true leadership isn't about seeking recognition but about making a positive difference in the lives of others through service and kindness. 

Why are you seeking a career in business?

Throughout my life, I've gravitated toward leadership positions where I can inspire and guide others toward shared goals. I believe that effective leadership is crucial in the business world, where collaboration, decision-making and problem-solving are essential for success. My involvement in business organizations during high school further solidified my passion for the field, giving me valuable skills and knowledge and strengthening my love for the dynamic and ever-evolving world of business.  

What have you learned about yourself through your college experience so far?

I've realized that mastering time management is crucial; it becomes your greatest ally. Being adept at juggling multiple tasks enhances adaptability and fosters resilience.

What is one fact about yourself that most people don’t know?

I have a twin and what's interesting is how our life trajectories differ. While I’m pursuing a traditional four-year university path, my twin took a different route and graduated from a technical school — all within a remarkably short span of six months. 

What is your personal motto or a philosophy you try to live by? 

The classic saying: "When one door closes, another one opens." While it may sound cliché, I strongly believe that everything unfolds for a reason and when one opportunity doesn't pan out, it simply means that something greater is on the horizon. This mindset keeps me resilient and optimistic, allowing me to embrace life's twists and turns with confidence and faith in the journey ahead.