Samuel Mercer can do it all! From “building an organization that operates similar to a startup” called Eizent Innovations, to his secret talent of playing the piano, Sam took advantage of the opportunities the UNH Entrepreneurship Center and InterOperability Laboratory gave him.
Although Sam had absolutely no prior business or legal experience, he worked closely with fellow students and advisors to gain professional and technical expertise that helped propel him to win various competitions. With the help of Ian Grant and his fellow cofounders of Eizent, his team earned first place at the 2021 UNH URC-ISE and received finalist status at the NH SVIC. Currently they are competing in the Summer Seed Grant, the UNH Holloway Prize Competition, and two research conferences.
Outside of the classroom, post-pandemic Sam is looking forward to going to baseball games again. “Baseball is my favorite sport and up until 2020, I used to go to one to four baseball games every week around New England. I still play baseball for fun when I have the chance to with my younger brother or with some pals from high school over the summer.”
Quick facts about Sam:
Favorite part of the Honors Program?
“I enjoy the experiential learning I have been able to obtain as a member of the Honors Program. This comes from both experiences in my Honors classes and my Research Experience and Apprenticeship Program (REAP) fellowship.”
What has been your favorite Honors class/professor?
HUMA444E: What Is A Criminal? with Dr. Alex Holznienkemper.
Why did you choose UNH?
I chose UNH because I felt the Durham campus had a very strong connection to nature and wildlife.
What is your favorite place to eat in Durham?
The Works Café, especially their tropical sunrise smoothie!!
Best dining hall?
“This will definitely be controversial, but I enjoy the MUB/Holloway Commons the most. I like the seating, the view, and – of course – the selection of food.”
