College Experiences That Helped a DEI Manager at SoundCloud Succeed
Tamura's path to success stemmed from a combination of proactive networking, "making connections with all different types of folks," and a strong work ethic involving multiple jobs throughout college. This, coupled with a conscious effort to "leave a positive impression on people," and avoid "burning bridges," laid a solid foundation for their career in DEI.
Networking, Cultural Awareness, Work Ethic, Positive Impression, Relationship Building
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Tamura Davis
DEI Manager
SoundCloud Inc
Loyola Marymount University
N/A
Business Management & Admin
Arts, Entertainment & Media, Technology
Human Resources (HR)
Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Greek Life Member, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Build a strong network by connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life.
2. Maintain a positive reputation and avoid burning bridges.
3. Develop a strong work ethic by working hard and learning to work smarter, not harder.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success?
I'm not even sure if it was only undergrad, honestly. I feel like life experiences set me up for success. I've always done the work and have been aware of DEI before it even became DEI.
Before there was a title or a role for this type of work, in undergrad I would say I was involved in different things and surrounded myself with different cultures, ethnicities, and perspectives. I make connections with all different types of folks from different walks of life.
As I said earlier, I loved networking and making connections with folks in undergrad. I just learned the importance of not burning bridges very early. So even in undergrad, sending yourself up for success goes back to leaving an impression on people.
What type of impression do you want to leave on someone? Hopefully, it's a positive impression that you're leaving on people. I think that is what set me up for success. Probably even the work ethic, right? The fact that I had multiple jobs. I was working on campus and I worked off campus. There were other folks in similar situations as myself.
So, work hard, do better, work smarter, not harder. I'll end it by saying that.