From Classroom to Career: A Tech Journey at Barclays

Tell us about your path from graduation to your current job. 

After completing my Master’s in Information Systems, I secured a role as a Technology Analyst at Barclays. My journey was greatly supported by my internship at Barclays, where I gained firsthand experience in the financial technology sector. The skills I developed at the Smith School, particularly in project management, business process analysis, programming, and technical storytelling, allowed me to transition smoothly into this role. Currently, I work on the Global Platform Services (GPS) team, contributing to various tech-driven initiatives that include financial information systems, and ensuring efficient service delivery.

Why did you decide to get a business degree and why did you choose the Smith School? 

I chose to pursue a business degree in Information Systems because I wanted to blend my technical skills with business acumen, enabling me to understand and solve complex challenges in the tech industry. The Smith School's strong emphasis on experiential learning, industry partnerships, and cutting-edge curriculum was a perfect fit for my career goals. Resources like the Impact Consulting Fellowship and client-based projects integrated into the curriculum provided invaluable hands-on experience, allowing me to work on real-world problems and build practical skills. Additionally, the supportive community and vast network at Smith played a significant role in my decision, as they offered numerous opportunities for growth and collaboration.

How has your Smith education helped you with your professional career? Were there specific classes, experiential projects, team projects, or internships that have been especially helpful to you? 

My education at the Smith School has been incredibly impactful in shaping my career. The program's emphasis on experiential learning meant that I wasn't just studying concepts; I was applying them. Courses in project management, business strategy, statistics and coding gave me the technical and strategic skills needed to navigate the tech industry effectively. What stood out the most were the client-based projects and initiatives like the Impact Consulting Fellowship, where I got to work on real-world challenges, often in collaboration with industry partners.

Additionally, certain professors brought a unique energy to the classroom. They used games, case studies and interactive discussions to make every lesson engaging and memorable. Learning through simulations and case-based learning made every day in class not just informative but genuinely fun. This blend of hands-on learning and dynamic teaching truly prepared me to handle complex projects in my role at Barclays, where I am constantly applying these skills to drive tech-driven solutions.

What about your personal journey has led to your success?

A key part of my journey has been the mindset of being present and embracing changes as they come. I’ve always believed in setting small, achievable goals for myself rather than overwhelming myself with pressure. This approach has allowed me to focus on steady progress, celebrate each small step, and stay motivated throughout. Whether it was completing a challenging project, learning a new skill, or navigating new environments, I made sure to acknowledge and appreciate each milestone. By breaking down bigger tasks into manageable parts, I was able to maintain balance and confidence, which has been essential to my success both academically and professionally.

Is there something about your professional journey that people would find surprising? 

People might be surprised to learn that I actually spent more time having fun than stressing over work. My approach was simple: I made sure to focus during classes, get my tasks done efficiently, and set small, clear goals for myself. That way, I could check off everything on my list without getting overwhelmed. By being organized and purposeful with my time, I found that I didn’t need to spend countless hours studying—I could get my work done and still have plenty of time to enjoy myself. This balance allowed me to stay motivated and energized, and it’s a mindset I’ve carried into my professional life as well.

What advice would you give to current students?

Make the most of internships and project opportunities—they’re invaluable for applying classroom knowledge to real-world situations and discovering what aspects of your field truly excite you. My advice is to regularly invest in yourself. Even if it’s just dedicating an hour a week to learning a new skill, reading up on industry trends, or reflecting on your progress, this habit will keep you growing without overwhelming you.

By setting aside this time for self-improvement, you can spend the rest of the week enjoying your college experience without feeling pressured. It’s also essential to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Completing a challenging project, gaining new insights, or simply making it through a tough week—all of these deserve recognition. Celebrating these moments builds confidence and paves the way for more opportunities. So, be proactive about growth, take on new challenges, and appreciate every step of your journey.

Is there anything else you would like to add that was not covered in the questions? 

If there’s one last piece of advice I’d like to share, it’s the importance of balance and building meaningful connections. While technical expertise is essential, don’t overlook the value of soft skills—communication, collaboration and adaptability. Your ability to work well with others, articulate your ideas clearly, and navigate different perspectives will often set you apart and open doors that pure technical knowledge alone cannot.

Moreover, take the time to build your network. Engage genuinely with peers, professors, and industry professionals. These connections not only lead to potential career opportunities but also offer insights, mentorship and support throughout your journey.

Lastly, embrace the journey. Celebrate every milestone, learn from every challenge, and don’t rush the process. Success isn’t just about reaching the destination; it’s about growing and evolving with every experience along the way. Enjoy it, because each step, whether it’s a win or a lesson, is what ultimately shapes your career and who you become.