Congratulations on all of your hard work that has brought you to today. You’ve studied, delved into issues, discovered new opportunities, and dedicated yourself to accomplishing your goal – graduation. Whether in finance or marketing, accounting or information systems, you now have your diploma, which opens up a world of opportunity.
Though you’re walking out our doors, you’re not walking out of our lives. The David Eccles School of Business has more than 31,000 alumni worldwide. You are now part of this powerful network, which you can leverage to better careers and job advancements, as well as to assist the next generation of leaders by giving your time, talents, and financial support.
On your graduation day, we welcome you to this robust group with open arms and words of wisdom from those who have walked before you.
“Networking is the key to success.” – LeAna Robison (BS ’90)
“Get to know your network.”- Jared Walk, (BS ’09, MBA ’11)
“People will always do business with people they know and trust. You never know when someone you met will be helpful to you or you to them.” – Mike Kirby (BS ’08)
“The time to network is now.”- Brian Gutierrez (BS ’10)
“Know your classmates outside of the class. They’ll be the people you can rely on for future jobs and contacts.” – Jonathan Irwin (MBA ’06)
“It’s not about what you learn in school, but who you know and talk to at parties.” – Dave Decker (BA ’03, MBA ’05)
“Don’t be afraid to talk to people you don’t know.” – Mike Gleeson (BS ’05) This worked to Gleeson’s advantage as he struck up a conversation with a stranger when flying back to Salt Lake—that conversation then led to a new business venture.
It’s now easier to stay connect than ever before—be sure to follow us on our alumni pages: Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin and Google+ we’ll keep you updated and in the know about when we’ll be having networking events and activities for you.
Stay Connected
Being part of the alumni group helps you stay connected with your peers and connects you to the next generation of business leaders. The University of Utah Business Alumni Association Board members remind you to be an active part of your alumni group.
“Remember where you came from as you are a true Ute now, just as you were your first day on campus. As the University of Utah is the home of the Utes, it is always a home for U!” – Tom Etzel (BS’ 82)
“Remember there are many ways to be successful in your career and life in general. Never forget to always give back; your time and money are equally valuable.”- Lisa Schneider (BS ’80)
“My experience during school was very valuable, but my experience staying involved with the business school has been just as valuable.” – Greg Schow (BA ’04, BS ’04)
“Staying connected to the U after graduation will open opportunities for you to continue to get professional and personal development, either through the Alumni Association or corporate development through the Executive Education Program.” – Jared Stephens (MBA ’12)
“I kept in contact with some of my professors after graduation. Six months into my position as a marketing manager for a restoration firm, I met with my advertising professor, Alan Sandomir, to help me with a marketing campaign. It was so successful that I presented it at a national convention. It was awesome to meet with Alan and get his thoughts and ideas. He was a huge help.” – Lianna Ostler (BS ’09)
Words of Wisdom
But graduation isn’t just the end of one journey; it’s the beginning of a lifetime of exploration and growth.
“Never stop learning. School’s not the end.” – Joseph Graham (MBA ’12)
“Always say yes. Be available; be open to new ideas and opportunities.” – Zack Clark (BS ’02, MBA’05)
“Never say no to a social invitation.”- Marc Wintriss (MSF ’06)
“Be ready to accept any opportunity that comes your way. Change is good.” – Ana Rodriguez (MBA ’10)
“The good life is now.” – Erik Edwards (BS ’11, MACC ’12)
“Keep it real. Remember people are important and deserve respect and courtesy. It’s all about people.” – Mark Paterson (MBA ’76)
“Balance your life from day one and forever.” – Jeff Lewis (University of Utah Business Alumni Association Board Member)
“To those graduating, I give this one piece of advice – diversify. That means don’t focus on one element of life such as work or play, but take time to experience all aspects of life from work to play to family to charity to continuing education. They are all extremely important and each will define you.”- Greg Boyce (BS ’87, University of Utah Business Alumni Association Co-Chair)
“No matter where life takes you, you will always be able to call the U your home. Call home often!” – John Fackler (BS ’94, MACC ’95)
Welcome Class of 2013 to the David Eccles School of Business Alumni Association!
What’s your best advice for our new alumni? Please share your thoughts below.