College Experiences That Helped A Supplier Manager At Cisco Systems Succeed
To succeed in college and beyond, Christina suggests creating a "four-year plan broken into two-year chunks" to define goals and align academics with lifestyle aspirations, like "moving to California and traveling the world." Active engagement with career services, including mock interviews and networking with recruiters, is equally crucial, emphasizing "practice and reps" as key to interview success.
Career Planning, Networking, Interview Skills, Self-Reflection, Career Goals
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Christina Marone
Supplier Manager
Cisco Systems Inc - San Jose, CA
Michigan State University
Arizona State University
Industrial, Supply Chain Management
Technology
Operations and Project Management
Worked 20+ Hours in School
Video Highlights
1. Create a four-year plan divided into two-year chunks to identify needed classes and align your major with your desired lifestyle and career goals.
2. Actively engage with career services, attend recruiting events, and practice interviewing regularly to improve your skills and build connections.
3. Choose a career path and company that aligns with your values and makes you proud. Prioritize finding a job that allows for flexibility and opportunities for travel and growth if those are important to you
Transcript
Q12: College ideas for success
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
One thing I would recommend is to use your four years of undergrad wisely. I was a TA for entry-level business freshmen, and I'd tell them three things. First, look at your four years and break it down into two quarters. Determine what you're going to accomplish each quarter.
Do you need a certain class? This will help you determine what minor or major you want to get. It's also important to ensure that your major aligns with the lifestyle you desire. I wanted to move to California right after college and have the flexibility to travel the world, so I found a job that would allow me to do that.
So, have a focus and a strategy. It's a privilege to go to college, and education is power. Don't waste it; take the time to really use all the resources you have.
Another thing I did was talk to every recruiter I could find. I know it felt nerdy, but it paid off. Now, I help friends and others with their resumes. I used all the career services and set up mock interviews at least two to four times a year.
I learned the gist of interviewing well through practice. A lot of it is just practice and reps. Having a plan and executing it is important, as is ensuring your decisions are driven by your values. Make sure you're working in an industry and company that makes you proud.