I was ecstatic to join the M.S. in Global Commerce Class of 2019 because I knew it would open doors for me that did not previously exist. Commerce Career Services (CCS) did not disappoint and was extremely helpful in the job search process. While at the University of Virginia, I applied to dozens of jobs across various industries and disciplines without a clear job search strategy. CCS career advisors helped me narrow the scope of my search and introduced the idea of a purpose-driven career. I have always wanted to work with startups and entrepreneurs from around the world and even concentrated in startup management and global social entrepreneurship while at Florida State.
One thing I learned from the job search experience was how to leverage the UVA and McIntire networks. I knew many of these positions were attained through networking in addition to traditional job postings. CCS provided me with the resources to expand my network and taught me key skills on how to build connections, find mentors, and reach potential employers. By the end of the Program, the strategies I learned helped me find an opportunity I’m passionate about.
Recently, I began my job with Harbor View Advisors as an M&A analyst. They provide a range of services at the intersection of strategy consulting and investment banking for small and medium-sized clients with a net capitalization between $200M and $1B. Harbor View partners with startup founders and senior leadership of fast-growing companies, private equity firms, and M&A teams of global corporations in fintech, human capital management, and health services industries.
Since Harbor View offers cross-border M&A as a tool to grow and enter new markets, the knowledge I gained in the Program will prove invaluable on the job. As the fourteenth employee to be hired into the firm, I will have direct access to the firm’s leadership which hails from the world’s most prestigious investment banks and consulting firms. Additionally, I will be given greater responsibilities on client projects and am expected to perform in an entrepreneurial firm that plans to double in size over the next three years.
My experiences in China and Spain will certainly be beneficial in more ways than one. In addition to the invaluable cross-cultural competencies I have gained, I have the opportunity to network within entrepreneurial ecosystems around the world. Since Harbor View has clients in both Spain and Asia, I started building relationships during my time at ESADE within Barcelona’s rich entrepreneurial community in a way that can impact my career in the long-term. As a member of a startup firm, my impact must include contributions outside of day-to-day operations such as networking with potential clients and partners. I know that my M.S. Global Commerce degree will continue to increase in value as my career progresses.
