Rebecca is a recent graduate from Gabelli School of Business, Lincoln Center with a major in Global Business in Digital Media & Technology. On campus, she was involved in the Black Student Alliance and Senior Week Committee. Additionally, she worked as a Resident Assistant and Student Researcher! Currently, she works as an Associate Strategist for Klick Health in New York City, NY
How did you find this opportunity? Is it related to your major?
I found this opportunity through a recruiting event the company held last February (which I actually spoke at and attended as a Klickster last month!) for upcoming and recent grads. It was an opportunity for students of color to connect with industry leaders and learn more about the potential crafts offered at Klick. I made sure to speak to every person in that room and leave my mark; a few months later, I was called in to Klick to do a case study!
My current position is so heavily related to my major as I have to take in the global environment, marry it to digital transformation and innovation, and create strategies to help our life sciences partners commercialize their products. I’m able to combine all my skill sets from research, marketing & communications, technology, cultural insights, and strategic decision making into every project I touch. On top of that, every new project is an opportunity for me to continue my passion for learning and seek guidance from masters in their craft.
What are/were you most nervous/excited about as you start(ed)?
I was definitely most nervous about coming into Klick as a new grad and not living up to expectations (good old imposter syndrome). I think it’s a common anxiety for new talent entering into the workforce, especially as such established and well renowned firms. I’m grateful to be surrounded and supported by an incredible crew (including Jodi Reimer, Amy Gomez, and Carl Turner to name a few) of passionate, intelligent and, most of all, kind people. Everyone at Klick has given me the opportunity to shine in different ways and prove (maybe most importantly to myself) that I belong at Klick. I’m just most excited, as I mentioned earlier, to continue to absorb everything I can, develop my skills, and learn to become the best strategist I can be!
What were your most valuable resources at Fordham?
My most valuable resources were definitely the people at Fordham. I implore everybody to try and get to know their advisors, set some time to chat or visit their office (Shout out to Father Vin and the rest of the amazing Gabelli staff)! These folks really help you figure out what it is that you want from your education and help set you on the right path. Talk to your professors and figure out what you have in common with them (they are humans too!). Try to go to a student club meeting or event (even at your sister campus) and keep up with the people you meet! New York is huge but it can be a lot less daunting if you have the best people by your side!
Did you do internships during your time as an undergrad?
I held several internships on top of regular working for the university. For internships; I was a Public Relations intern at the Pace Gallery, Social Media/Marketing/Events Intern for the New York City Restaurant Group, and a Growth Marketing Intern at Constellation. I had the opportunity to learn under IBM in their Accelerate program, focusing on UX/UI design for a summer as well. On campus, I held several jobs over my four years including: Equipment Assistant, Counseling Office Assistant, and Resident Assistant.
What advice would you give others for the job search and application process?
It is crazy right now but do not give up! Trust me when I say I sent out way too many applications to even count. The key to success is to keep making connections. Go to those events, send out 80,000 emails and thank you’s and follow up questions. Make sure people remember your name and face because you never know who will tap on your shoulder to bring you along in the future!
In general, what are your future career goals?
Just to grow. I never want to feel stagnant or that I’ve reached the height of my career. Even when you’ve done the best you know to do at that time, there’s always room for growth and to learn more!
Optional: Fun fact or anything else you want to share!
My favorite off-campus study spot was the Paris Baguette a few blocks away from the LC campus! A lot of seating room + plugs, great snacks/drinks (w/ good prices), and wifi!
The Fordham Career Center is committed to building a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship while providing a bridge between the classroom experience and the world beyond. Throughout the job and internship search process, it is our goal to help students, alumni, community partners and employers alike understand the extraordinary value of a Fordham education. To learn more about our offerings and connect with the Career Center, visit fordham.edu/career.
