Erica Neff
Class of '17 & '22
Erica Neff
A Bearcats For Life Story
I never imagined I’d end up at the University of Cincinnati. As a Cincinnati native, I had my sights elsewhere, but when I transferred here, I immediately fell in love with the campus, the community, and the opportunities. I often joked that I should have come here in the first place.
During my undergraduate years, I built my UC family through Greek life, student government, founding the Gamma Iota Sigma business fraternity, and serving as a PACE leader and teaching assistant. Each experience shaped not only my college years but also my vision for the future.
Returning for my MBA was an easy decision. I was thrilled to take classes in the newly built Lindner College of Business, further immersing myself in the vibrant UC community. But deep down, I knew I wanted to give back in a way that had inspired me the most, teaching.
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When I got the call to fill an 8 a.m. teaching spot, I instantly fell in love. I loved sharing my Bearcat experience with students and weaving my journey into the lessons. A few months later, I was hired full time to teach the very class I had once taken as a transfer student, then supported as a PACE leader and TA for five semesters. Now, I have the privilege of helping first-year transfer and transition students find their place on campus, encouraging involvement in student organizations and volunteer opportunities, and helping them build the same lifelong connections I was lucky to form.
UC isn’t just part of my story - it’s part of my family story. I’ve even converted my Penn State husband into an avid Bearcat fan, from football season tickets to attending basketball games with my in-laws. Beyond teaching, I proudly serve as Vice Chair of UCYP, helping young alumni stay connected and giving back to the school that gave me so much.
Being a Bearcat isn’t just a chapter of my life - it’s a lifelong identity. Every day, I get to contribute to the community that shaped me, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else.