Sherry Levine '18 Commands Her Career

Victor Mullins, associate dean of the undergraduate program at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business, recently interviewed Smith Junior Sherry Levine ’18 to discuss how she is “commanding her career” during her Smith journey. So what does the Smith journey entail? During their freshman year, Smith students begin to build their personal brand through the SmithStart program. Sophomores dedicate their second year to pioneering their path to success by focusing on an overall academic and career strategy. Junior year focuses on students taking command of their careers to ensure that they are well positioned for their professional journey. Finally, as a senior with an arsenal of tools, knowledge, and networks, Smith students are able to embrace their experience and celebrate their success.

Dean Mullins: Reflect on how you “built your brand” during your freshmen year.

Although I was admitted into the Robert H. Smith School of Business as a freshman, I hadn’t declared a specific area of focus. In order to distinguish my true interests, I joined a variety of SUSA-recognized organizations and quickly assumed leadership roles within a few organizations. I began to meet a number of upperclassmen that soon became my mentors. They guided me toward applying for the following opportunities within the Smith School that aligned with my increasing interests: QUEST and Sophomore Wall Street Fellows. My acceptance into these programs during my freshman year was a catalyst for my future Smith involvement and ultimate career aspirations.

Dean Mullins: How are you going to “command your career” during your junior year. I do recognize that this year is still beginning.

In order to command my career during my junior year, I partook in a number of summer externships and opportunities posted on HireSmith. These programs allowed me to explore my potential career interests and ultimately decide on the career I wished to pursue. I just accepted the opportunity to work for J.P. Morgan as an Investment Banking Summer Analyst starting in June. This offer is a result of the number of interviews with Smith alumni and several applications I submitted for summer 2017 internships. Throughout my junior year, I will be speaking with current Smith students, Smith alumni, and Smith faculty in order to decide which coverage group within investment banking I wish to select for the upcoming summer while at J.P. Morgan.

Dean Mullins: What advice would you give to your fellow Smith peers and community?

Value the opportunities that the Smith School presents you. Go to that club meeting—even if you don’t know anyone. Apply for that program—even if you are unsure of whether you will be accepted. Take that difficult class—even if you fear how you will perform. The Smith School provides students with endless opportunities for growth. It is your responsibility to seize the opportunities and create your own Smith experience. I also suggest that you discover at least one mentor within the Smith School to whom you can go for professional advice. Then take the lessons you’ve received and become a mentor for another individual within the Smith School.

Dean Mullins: How are you making your mark on campus?

I find that one of the most impactful things a leader can do is empower other individuals within organizations to develop their leadership skills and assume leadership roles. I’ve joined organizations and accepted leadership roles on campus that are allowing me to empower others as leaders. Some of these organizations include Operations Management & Business Analytics Society, Sigma Delta Tau Sorority, and QUEST Student Organization. When I graduate and transition out of these leadership roles, I am confident that the members of these organizations will be capable of continuing the success of the organizations on campus.

Dean Mullins: What is your dream?

In terms of an immediate career dream, I wish to become an investment banker—and I am incredibly excited to be achieving this dream in the upcoming summer. Aside from this, I desire to continue my education in both formal and informal settings. I value gaining knowledge and would welcome the opportunity to receive an MBA. I also want to be continuously challenged in the future and be required to develop further knowledge and skills. Perhaps one day I will become a professor. It would be wonderful to gain industry experience, come back to Smith, and educate undergraduate students.

Dean Mullins: Why are you passionate about the Smith School?

I could not imagine a more positive undergraduate experience than the one I am receiving. The Smith School has provided me with ample opportunities for personal and professional development. The classes in which I’ve enrolled have been monumental to my success during summer internships—and I know that the knowledge I’ve gained will extend into my full-time career as well. The friendships I’ve formed with fellow classmates will also continue beyond my four years within the Smith School. The Smith School is truly invested in my success as an undergraduate student and always encourages me to surpass the expectations and goals I have set for myself.

For more information about the undergraduate program at Smith, visit: www.rhsmith.umd.edu/undergrad.