Kathleen Curry '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 Kathleen Curry ’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 during 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.

Kathleen: As a student who was not directly admitted into the Smith School, I knew that I had to build my brand academically, professionally and socially in order to obtain the expertise I needed to be successful at Smith. I differentiated myself through my diligent attention to my coursework and with the Business, Society, and the Economy Scholars Program in order to provide a solid foundation for my Smith journey. My brand is a combination of my hard work, unwavering motivation and quest for impact that has been shaped by the Smith community.

Dean Mullins: How are you going to “command your career” during your junior year?

Kathleen: I started this year by accepting an offer from PwC Federal Advisory Consulting. While I was lucky to have an early offer, that did not stop my continuous development for a demanding career in consulting. I am cultivating my problem-solving skills with client work in my Global Consulting Fellows program and serving as a mentor on the leadership team for Consult Your Community. I challenge myself by competing in case competitions and by taking more rigorous courses as a student in Business Honors. “Commanding my Career” means learning new things and improving my skills in order to have a greater impact for my career after Smith.

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

Kathleen: Do things that you are afraid of! Relentlessly pursue opportunities that interest you even if you do not necessarily get them. My failures have constantly been some of my biggest motivators as well as my greatest learning experiences. Usually, you will surprise yourself with how you bounce back from certain disappointments. Never be afraid to try something new, ask a question or request help. Bet on yourself!

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

Kathleen: I am making my mark through the influence I have on others. Whether I am bringing in panelists to share their consulting knowledge with Smith, planning a social event for my business fraternity Phi Chi Theta, reviewing a resume in the Office of Career Services, or simply sharing a professional contact with a friend, I try to help the Smith community in a positive way. I hope to bestow the knowledge that has been shared with me to others and continuously promote the Smith brand.

Dean Mullins: What is your dream?

Kathleen: As a problem-solver and a change-maker, I dream of making a global impact. Over this past semester I have identified my passion within the field of social entrepreneurship, and I hope to consult with social ventures in order to identify solutions for complex societal issues. Smith has helped me truly believe that within every problem there is an opportunity and the ability to “do good.”

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

Kathleen: I constantly see the hard work that my fellow students put in. The Smith community is collaborative and supportive, and I’m lucky to have a group of friends that will always send potential career or club prospects to each other and celebrate each other’s successes. Smith balances a competitive and encouraging environment producing some of the most influential individuals I have ever seen.