The Power of Paying It Forward with Mentorship

Driven by my passion for accounting, I became a member of the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA). There, I wholeheartedly embraced their core principle of "Lifting as You Climb," a philosophy that profoundly resonated with me as a first-generation college student.

I was fortunate to connect with mentors throughout my career who were genuinely invested in my personal and professional development. Their invaluable guidance, unwavering support and steadfast encouragement helped me navigate the complexities of the corporate world and ultimately thrive in corporate America.

I was honored to accept an invitation to mentor for the Indiana CPA Society Scholars Program. I adopted the same mindset as my previous mentors—committing to paying it forward by guiding aspiring professionals, sharing my knowledge and experiences, and fostering a supportive community where everyone can achieve success.

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Paying It Forward

My experience at the UC Davis Graduate School of Management was pivotal in preparing me to mentor others. Shortly after earning my Master of Professional Accountancy, I joined Eli Lilly and Company as a senior financial analyst. The school's emphasis on collaborative learning and teamwork reinforced the importance of building strong, supportive relationships.

In the MPAc program, I worked in group projects and team-based assignments, which honed my ability to collaborate with diverse individuals, fostering mutual respect and shared goals.

The faculty's focus on paying it forward reinforced the value of mentorship, encouraging us to uplift our peers.

The rigorous MPAc curriculum, which included ethics, communication and leadership training, gave me the skills to navigate the corporate landscape—and the foundations of successful mentorship.

In addition, the school's commitment to experiential learning allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, sharpening my analytical skills and equipping me with the tools necessary to guide my mentees through similar challenges.

Three Ways Adaptability Will Help You Succeed in the Corporate World

Adapting to the corporate world after academia can be challenging, but flexibility and a willingness to embrace change will set you apart.

I’d like to share three key ways I’ve found that adaptability will serve you in your career:

1. Navigating Uncertainty and Change

The corporate world is constantly evolving, and being adaptable allows you to stay ahead of industry shifts, new technologies and changing job expectations. Employers value professionals who can pivot when needed and approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset.

2. Enhancing Problem-Solving and Resilience

Adapting to new workflows and expectations strengthens your ability to think critically, develop creative solutions and bounce back from setbacks. Embracing change helps you tackle unexpected challenges with confidence and maintain productivity under pressure.

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3. Building Career Growth Opportunities

Adaptability opens doors to new opportunities by expanding your skill set, making you more competitive and positioning you for leadership roles. Those who continuously learn and adjust are more likely to advance in fast-paced workplaces.

By mastering adaptability, you’ll not only survive but thrive in the corporate world, making you a more valuable and resilient professional.

Looking ahead, I am excited to continue my journey with the mindset of “Lifting as You Climb.” By sharing my experiences and supporting others, I aim to contribute to a future where success is not just an individual achievement but a collective triumph.

Mentorship Opportunities at the UC Davis Graduate School of Management

The UC Davis Graduate School of Management believes in the power of guidance and support.

New students benefit from a tight-knit community where everyone helps each other succeed and you benefit from networking opportunities and mentorship from alumni to build your leadership skills and career connections.