College Experiences That Helped a Principal Supply Chain Subcontract Specialist at Northrop Grumman Succeed
Marissa, a Principal Supply Chain Subcontract Specialist at Northrop Grumman, advises students to pursue leadership opportunities in college, emphasizing that "it doesn't hurt to try" and noting the value of networking and mentorship gained from participation in an ambassador's council. This experience, despite a career pivot from political science, fostered valuable leadership development applicable across various industries.
Leadership Development, Networking, Career Pivoting, Mentorship, Higher Education
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Marissa Simone
Principal Supply Chain Subcontract Specialist
Northrop Grumman Corporation
Pepperdine University
Arizona State University (ASU) - W. P. Carey, MBA in Supply Chain
Political Science, American Studies
Aerospace, Aviation & Defense
Operations and Project Management
Honors Student, Scholarship Recipient
Video Highlights
1. Take advantage of leadership opportunities, such as joining clubs or advisory boards, to develop leadership skills and network with professionals.
2. Don't be afraid to try new things and step outside of your comfort zone, even if you're not sure you'll succeed. Networking and mentorship opportunities can be invaluable.
3. Leadership development is beneficial regardless of your chosen field of study or career path. Seek out opportunities to hone these skills during your college years.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
As I mentioned, I studied political science in undergrad, so I definitely did a career pivot into supply chain, where I am now. But something that served me well, regardless of the industry or role I'm in, is that I tried to take advantage of leadership opportunities.
I was on the ambassador's council at my college. It was really good experience to volunteer and network, but also to gain visibility with university leadership and donors. It also gave me the opportunity to have a mentor and showed me where our careers could potentially go.
It was very inspiring and incentivizing to think, "I want to be like these people." It was also great to have their wisdom imparted on me. So that was a unique opportunity I was very grateful for.
I encourage anyone who thinks, "I don't know if I'll make it as president of this club," or "I don't know if I'll get accepted into this advisory board," to just try. Don't spread yourself too thin, but you never know who you might meet.
Regardless of what you're studying or what you want to do, it's very good to always practice your leadership development. I'm very grateful that I was on that council and got that opportunity.