Name: Peter J. Smith, Jr. '25
Major: Entrepreneurship
What is something you found valuable about your CBA Advantage experience?
One aspect that I found incredibly valuable was the multitude of events offered by the program. From major speakers to workshops and retreats led by esteemed faculty and successful companies, CBA Advantage provided an enriching platform for personal and professional growth. Attending these events exposed me to a diverse range of perspectives and ideas, allowing me to broaden my understanding of various business concepts and practices. The speakers shared their invaluable insights and experiences, shedding light on emerging trends, industry best practices, and the importance of ethical leadership. Their expertise not only inspired me but also gave me a deeper understanding of the complexities of the business world. Participating in workshops provided me with practical skills and knowledge that I could immediately apply in my academic coursework and future career endeavors. These interactive sessions allowed me to engage in hands-on activities, collaborate with fellow students, and explore innovative approaches to problem-solving. Whether it was a workshop on effective communication, strategic thinking, or financial analysis, each experience contributed to my personal and professional development.
What advice do you have for students as they complete their CBA Advantage requirements?
- Embrace diversity in activities: Take advantage of the wide range of activities offered through the CBA Advantage program. Explore opportunities that align with your interests, but also consider stepping out of your comfort zone to explore new areas. Engaging in diverse activities will allow you to develop a well-rounded skill set and broaden your perspectives.
- Plan ahead and manage your time effectively: Review the requirements and timelines for completing your CBA Advantage activities. Create a plan and allocate time for each activity to ensure that you can fulfill the requirements within the designated timeframe.
- Reflect on your experiences: Take the time to reflect on the activities you participate in as part of the CBA Advantage program. Consider the skills, knowledge, and insights you have gained from each experience. Reflecting on your experiences will not only help you appreciate the value of your involvement but also enable you to identify areas for growth and improvement.
- Build meaningful connections: Utilize the networking opportunities provided by the CBA Advantage program to connect with faculty, guest speakers, and fellow students. Engage in conversations, ask questions, and seek mentorship whenever possible. Building meaningful connections can open doors to future collaborations, internships, and career opportunities.
- Remember, the CBA Advantage program is designed to maximize your opportunities for success and personal growth. By actively participating, reflecting, and making the most of the resources available, you can create a truly transformative college experience that sets you apart as a business leader with moral courage and creative confidence.
What activity in CBA Advantage would you recommend to students?
I highly recommend the Full-Time Employment Reflection activity, if applicable to them. Based on my own experience as a co-founder of a shoe and apparel company, I can attest to the immense value this activity provides. The Employment Reflection activity allows students to reflect on the connection between their major and their full-time job. It provides a platform to describe the details of their employment, such as job title, company, and basic job responsibilities. Through this reflection, students can explore how they have leveraged what they've learned in the classroom to add value to their current work or how they plan to utilize their academic and work experiences toward building their future careers. In my case, I have witnessed firsthand how my academic knowledge directly impacts the success of our company. From analyzing market trends to developing effective sales and marketing strategies, I have applied my business and creative skills to contribute to the growth of our business. This demonstrates the relevance and practicality of the competencies emphasized by the CBA Advantage program, such as business knowledge, creative confidence, and leadership skills. Moreover, the Employment Reflection activity serves as a source of inspiration for fellow students. By sharing our experiences and highlighting the practical applications of our education in our respective fields, we can motivate and encourage others to explore similar opportunities. It demonstrates that our academic studies have a tangible impact on our professional journeys and showcases the value of our education in real-world contexts.