College Experiences That Helped A Solutions Specialist At IBM Succeed
Dylan's dual computer science and business undergraduate degree at Lehigh University provided a "solid foundation" by enabling communication across technical and business aspects, a skill many colleagues lacked. The competitive spirit fostered by Dylan's collegiate golf career further contributed to success in sales, highlighting the value of diverse experiences beyond academics.
Technology, Business Acumen, Communication Skills, Competitive Spirit, Problem-Solving
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Dylan Evans
Solutions Specialist
IBM
Lehigh University Class of 2010
UCLA Anderson MBA
Computer Science
Technology
Sales and Client Management
Worked 20+ Hours in School, Student Athlete
Video Highlights
1. Combine business and computer science studies for a well-rounded skillset.
2. Develop a competitive nature through extracurricular activities like sports.
3. Learn to communicate effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and skill sets.
Transcript
Dylan, taking you back to your time at Lehigh University. What did you do in undergrad that set you up for success in your career?
When I was at Lehigh, I was in the computer science and business program. It was a single major with two different focus areas: computer science and business. I think knowing both sides gave me a solid foundation for when I started working in tech.
I noticed that many people who were purely in computer science or purely in business struggled to communicate across both aspects of the equation once they were in the office. They became very focused on a niche area. The fact that I could speak to both sides was pretty helpful.
If you're still in undergrad, I recommend taking classes on both sides so you can speak the language for both. I was also a college athlete and played on the golf team at Lehigh. I think that helped me develop a competitive nature, which has been very effective in sales.
Those are the two things from my undergrad career that I believe have set me up for success.