Business Acumen & Career Outcomes

Career Paths: Shannon Porter’s Unconventional Journey to Finding Her Passion

Jane Majkiewicz — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 20:27:11 +0000

Career Paths: Shannon Porter’s Unconventional Journey to Finding Her Passion Jane Majkiewicz Thu, 11/06/2025 - 13:27

Jane Majkiewicz

Content notice: This story includes brief mentions of sexual assault and trauma recovery.

Life rarely unfolds the way we imagine. That’s one of the key messages alumna Shannon Porter (Mktg’23) shared with students in Bonnie Auslander’s Written Communication for Business Leaders course. In a candid and vulnerable presentation titled “What They Don’t Say About ‘The Job’ After College,” Porter outlined a personal journey that took her from trauma to podcast success—navigating rejection, resilience and discovery along the way.

Her visit to Leeds came with inspiration for fellow young job seekers: It’s OK not to have it all figured out. You can learn as you go and piece things together.

What do you wear in court?

Porter's college experience was overshadowed when she was raped by a close family friend her freshman year (not on the CU campus). She quietly struggled to keep studying, apply for internships, and maintain a meaningful college life while handling something far from typical—pursuing a two-year legal process against her perpetrator, whom she later discovered had also assaulted her cousin and three other women.

During finals the first semester of her junior year, Porter wasn’t just preparing for exams; she was preparing for court. There weren’t too many people she could turn to with questions like, “What’s the right thing to wear in court?”

“Life turned out to look very different than what I had thought,” she said. “I was really struggling. At school, I felt like I was living a double life, dying on the inside as I tried to recover.”

The job search that didn’t go as planned

One of Porter’s biggest surprises after graduation was watching her peers fulfill Leeds’ 90% placement rate—securing jobs within six months—while she waited for her big break.

“I did mostly everything right,” she said, describing her efforts to study hard, engage in class and go the extra mile. She struggled with accounting and nearly failed, but overall, she was “doing the grind.” In her sophomore year, she won the Communication Strategy Case Competition at Leeds, which she now credits with helping her build a foundation in presentation and storytelling skills.

Yet despite her persistence, she still found herself among the 10% of recent graduates without a job. She had envisioned a traditional corporate path and 9-to-5 lifestyle. But after receiving 1,300 rejections—one within minutes—she stopped tracking applications in her Excel spreadsheet.

Finding her voice

Through it all, Porter was discovering her voice. Her presentation at Leeds was a great example. She was warm and confident, demonstrating skills honed through crafting dozens of episodes of "What They Don’t Say: Sexual Assault and Everything in Between." Co-created in 2023 with her cousin Lauren King, the podcast was born from a burning desire to open up dialogue around sexual assault—topics they wished they could discuss with supportive friends.

The podcast tackles raw, unfiltered subjects like “Terrible Pillow Talk: Crying During Sex,” aiming to create space for honest conversations about trauma and healing.

There are many ways to build a meaningful career—even if it doesn’t look like everyone else’s version of success.

Shannon Porter (Mktg’23)

And their message has resonated: To date, they have amassed 18,000 social media followers, 1 million TikTok likes, 80,000 streams and downloads, and more than 800 messages from listeners—and counting.

“Consent is hot”—and so is being scrappy and creative

Since launching the podcast, Porter has done whatever it takes to stay financially afloat while advancing its mission. From selling items on Etsy and eBay to working with nonprofits and creating branded merchandise with the slogan “consent is hot,” she’s been resourceful and determined.

Recognition has followed. She secured an interview with Jess Michaels, a Jeffrey Epstein survivor, for the podcast. That led to Porter’s current role as a part-time social media manager for Michaels’ startup, which focuses on sexual assault first aid. Another milestone was interviewing Susan Bratton, a high-profile relationship and intimacy expert featured on The Diary of a CEO.

Producing the podcast is demanding work. “Every week it can feel like dragging myself behind a vehicle,” Porter admitted, describing both the intensity of the editing process and the emotional vulnerability of releasing each episode. She often wrestles with self-doubt, questioning whether an episode is truly ready. Yet the podcast has become a powerful springboard for broader conversations—fueling consent and sexual assault workshops that Porter is developing and plans to bring to college campuses, including 51�Թ��.

“I have pieced together a messy, low-income life in service to keeping this podcast going,” she said. “While there are bad moments, days and weeks, this is an example of a path. The 9-5 job on a corporate ladder is not the only way.”

Three Principles for Staying Grounded

Since graduation, Porter has leaned on a few principles to navigate personal and professional growth.

Show up curious. “There’s something to learn from everyone. If you’re bored, show up more.”
Set boundaries. “Say ‘yes’ first and then learn to say ‘no.’ If you say yes to everything, you’ll deprive the world of what you’re meant to build.”
Use AI wisely. AI tools can be helpful in research and editing, but you never want to lose your unique voice. “I never want to use AI in a way that will outpace the integrity of my brand. Once you lose your brand, it’s hard to get it back.”

Looking Ahead

At the heart of Porter’s work is a commitment to education and open dialogue—especially around topics that are difficult to discuss. She began her Leeds presentation with the concept of a “trust tree,” a framework for engaging in honest conversations about issues like sexual assault. Her approach encourages curiosity, respect and wonder, rather than judgment.

Her message to students was simple yet powerful: “The important thing is to find and do something that will build you up.”

After her presentation, Porter reflected on LinkedIn: “Three years ago, I was sitting in those same chairs applying for jobs and hoping for something great. I didn’t know I’d end up on a completely different path than any I thought were options.”

She continued, “It was a full-circle moment to talk with students about the realities of life after college, and to remind them that there are many ways to build a meaningful career—even if it doesn’t look like everyone else’s version of success.”

Shannon Porter (Mktg’23) turned trauma and job rejections into resilience, building a powerful podcast and an unexpected career path.

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ETA the Colorado Way

Jane Majkiewicz — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 16:48:22 +0000

ETA the Colorado Way Jane Majkiewicz Mon, 11/03/2025 - 09:48

Jane Majkiewicz

Buying existing businesses is the next big move for entrepreneurs—and Colorado is writing its own playbook with a new conference, courses and a forthcoming Executive Education program at the Leeds School of Business.

Erick Mueller, executive director of the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship, welcomed more than 200 attendees at the inaugural Rocky Mountain ETA Conference.

Entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) is having a moment as entrepreneurs are buying established businesses rather than starting from the ground up. The timing couldn’t be better: The model addresses the encroaching “silver tsunami” of Baby Boomer business owners ready to retire. And Colorado is ready to lead the charge in an industry ramping up to successfully match buyers and sellers to help valuable businesses not just stay alive—but to flourish. Here in Colorado, the movement is fueled by the startup-driven energy that has come to be the Rocky Mountain region’s hallmark.

Are you search curious?

From startup roots to acquisition routes, curiosity was the theme at the inaugural Rocky Mountain ETA Conference on October 25 at 51�Թ��. Organizers had to move the event to the UMC’s Glen Miller Ballroom to accommodate more than 200 attendees. The buzz? While ETA isn’t a new concept, it is surging in popularity.

The first conference of its kind in the region brought together acquisition entrepreneurs, students, investors, faculty and service providers to swap insights and best practices. Hosted by the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship with partners Denver ETA Meetup—the nation’s largest ETA group—along with Colorado State University and the Colorado School of Mines, the event featured two tracks for both newcomers and seasoned professionals. Eleven corporate partners added depth to the panels and the networking mix.

The crowd was eclectic. Colorado School of Mines students like Soren Larson, a sophomore in electrical engineering, and Riley Russo, a first year with aspirations in quantum design, came to soak up ETA knowledge. Ruben Helo, a Denver-based real estate broker and investor, wanted to learn the steps toward acquisition, while Brian French, a CU engineering alumnus, and Blake Tretter, a recent Denver transplant who sold a family business in South Carolina, were already active in the search process.

Some attendees, like Brandi Lipton, were new to the concept, while others—like her niece Eliza Grace (MBA’25), co-founder of PROX Search Capital, and Kyle Poulin, a former venture capitalist and now an adjunct professor at Brigham Young University—are already shaping the space.

The inaugural ETA Rocky Mountain Conference, held on October 25, was made possible by eleven sponsoring partners, along with the Deming Center at the Leeds School of Business, Colorado State University, Colorado School of Mines and the Denver ETA Meetup. Shannon Jones and Adam Markley (center photo, left to right) were among the lead organizers.

Why ETA?

As millions of Baby Boomer business owners get ready to retire in droves, the potential picture isn’t pretty—leaving an estimated $14 trillion in businesses, 3 million companies and 23 million jobs on the table. Without a transition, Project Equity warns of a looming small business closure crisis.

Enter ETA, and Leeds is leaning in. Last year, the Deming Center launched an ETA course taught by industry veteran Shannon Jones. He taught a second ETA class and now also teaches Projects in Entrepreneurial Companies. His connection to Leeds began when he approached Tony Tong four years ago and ended up mentoring two students, one who now owns a business.

“ETA is about a transition, not a transaction.”

Erick Mueller, executive director of The Deming Center for Entrepreneurship

For Erick Mueller, Deming’s executive director, the momentum has been student-driven—and it started with a laugh. “When I first heard ETA, I thought they meant ‘estimated time of arrival,’” he joked. Today, he knows the deeper purpose: “ETA is about a transition, not a transaction.” The end game is helping the small businesses that make the backbone of this country—and the communities and jobs they support—thrive.

Collected Wisdom, Especially for Aspiring Searchers

Talk to everyone—brokers, bankers, owners. Intern or work in businesses aligned with your goals, even for free if needed.
Pick one focus—industry, geography or company size—and start there.
Create a one-sheet showcasing your bio, skills and goals.
Tap into the community—search can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to.
Approach ETA with humility and persistence. Do it right, not fast.
Don’t underestimate soft skills. You’ll interact with employees, customers, vendors and suppliers from all walks of life.
Be aware of the horror stories, but don’t let that deter you.

Pain points and possibilities

“For a while, I thought traditional entrepreneurship was the only way,” said presenter Connor McLaughlin, who acquired a painting business this year. “As I learned about ETA, I realized you get a massive head start—with brand equity and repeat customers. Compared to corporate roles, you’re creating your own destiny.”

But the conference wasn’t all about sugarcoating the journey. The name of one advanced session said it all: “Operating Post-Acquisition: Blood, Bruises, and Bias for Action.”

Panelists in “What Is ETA & Why Do It” acknowledged that while ETA may offer a faster track to entrepreneurship, it still comes with the same headaches—and heartaches—as any business venture.

After months of searching—and one collapsed deal—Josh Moore (MBA’23) said, “I can speak to the headaches officially.” For him, ETA is a long-term vision. The search phase alone can take 18 to 24 months, and luck plays a big role, he said. You need the right business partner and life partner to endure the “emotional rollercoaster.”

Others echoed the highs and lows. Marcela Fernandez, who pivoted from biotech engineering, wanted autonomy and flexibility. Today, she and her husband run a business, balancing work with parenting. Ethan Castro, who bought his first company in 2018 and exited three years later, said ETA gave his family the freedom to live in Spain for a year.

Financing adds complexity. Self-funded searchers often quit their jobs and rely on savings, SBA loans and seller financing—high risk, high reward. Advised Moore, “Ask yourself if you’re willing to go forward knowing it will be twice as long and hard as you think.”

Then there’s the reality of running the business. “It’s not just spreadsheets and decks,” Jones quipped. From hiring challenges to equipment failures, ETA demands grit and creativity. Moore reminded people that at first, you're likely to pay yourself very little.

Fernandez said building a strong culture around core values has been key to retaining talent, and Castro added that managing personalities was the most surprising part: “One company I acquired had employees who were hardworking but exhausted.”

Despite the hurdles, the possibilities keep searchers motivated. “The beauty of search is you’re buying a profitable business,” said Castro. “That can afford you creativity while you keep the business where it’s at.” Fernandez agreed: “Creativity goes hand-in-hand with curiosity. You can see possibility in a lot of industries—and then implement what you want.”

ETA misconceptions

For all its growing popularity, ETA can mislead newcomers. One big misconception? That you need deep deal experience to start. “That’s not true,” said Audrey Kohout, who bought her business three years ago. She and other speakers highlighted the many resources now available—internships, university programs and communities like the Denver ETA Meetup.

Another myth: Buy a company and watch it grow effortlessly. “It’s a lot more than one column in Excel,” said McLaughlin. “Each year is 26 payrolls and hundreds of projects—some winners, some losers.”

There’s also a belief that ETA is easy money. In reality, most buyers invest significant capital, often combining personal savings, SBA loans, seller financing and sometimes support from friends and family.

“There are opportunities out there, but not 0% down deals,” said Marla DiCarlo, a business broker. Aspiring ETA buyers will have to invest something, she noted, admitting that there are plenty of bad deals out there that give brokers a bad reputation.

“We’re leading the way. Let’s all win together.”

Erick Mueller, executive director of The Deming Center for Entrepreneurship

For Spencer Rogers (MBA’25), the biggest barrier for ETA entry isn’t money—it’s mindset and the courage to just get out there and do it. “You get to start on second base—buying a place that is already working. Your goal is to figure out how to add value, learn the ropes and build from there.” As the catalyst for Leeds’ ETA course and the mentee of Jones, Rogers now owns a hospitality business and is deeply enmeshed in the local ETA community.

Ultimately, ETA isn’t one-size-fits-all. “I didn’t think I was going to have the impact I wanted in a big company,” said Kohout, which was her impetus for going through the grueling process of searching. For McLaughlin, it was about being insulated from tech risk. "I was searching for a company with a service that was tangible. That excited me.”

Universities as ETA engines

Across the country, business schools such as Stanford, UVA Darden, Chicago Booth, Northwestern Kellogg and Wharton have defined the academic playbook for ETA.

Now, Leeds is building on that momentum. Mueller believes that the focus on self-funding vs. traditional funding, combined with the region's ethos of innovation, are key differentiators.

And while panelists agreed that an MBA is helpful in turning buyers into operators, not everyone has the luxury of earning their master’s. Leeds is debuting an ETA Executive Education Certificate in early 2026. The two-and-a-half-day program is designed for professionals who want practical tools for sourcing, financing and operating businesses in an intensive, retreat-style format.

Another example, said Adam Markley, the founder of Denver ETA Meetup and PROX, as well as a regular lecturer along with Jones, is a new program that Leeds plans to target to military veterans, who bring an especially strong background in operations to existing small businesses.

Cementing ETA’s future—in Colorado and beyond

If the Rocky Mountain ETA Conference proved anything, it’s that this movement is accelerating.

“The Denver ETA space has changed significantly in the last three years,” said Maggie Givot, who specializes in SBA lending. “Pre-COVID, few entrepreneurs understood SBA financing. Today, it’s a cornerstone of ETA deals—even as competition intensifies, with hundreds of buyers chasing a single opportunity.”

For Jones, ETA’s future isn’t just about deals. “This is about connection,” he said. “Entrepreneurship can feel like an individual sport, but it doesn’t have to be. It can be a team sport.”

Markley emphasized building support for those on the ETA path. “We’re working on access to information through education and partners,” he said. “Now, this industry has a defined community, lingo, lenders and partners. Some older conferences are becoming more specialized. We want this to be one of the preeminent ETA events in the country.”

Mueller noted that many sellers remain hesitant, risking businesses and jobs and the ripple effects. Helping sellers means understanding that “they are not selling a business,” he said. “They’re selling an identity.” His goal: create a heartfelt transition to the next generation.

“We’re leading the way,” he said, pointing to the region’s hallmark vibe—a scrappy, can-do startup culture that sets the stage for risk-takers, doers and dreamers. His mantra? “Let’s all win together.”

The ETA Skillset

During the introductory session of the Rocky Mountain ETA Conference, panelists shared candid insights into the journey of acquiring and growing existing businesses—highlighting both the rewarding moments and the challenges along the way.

ETA takes more than ambition—it’s a mix of hard numbers and human nuance. Here’s what experts say matters most.

Financial acumen: Know how to generate cash flow. Understand working capital and accounts receivable. Personal guarantees mean you’ll do everything possible to repay your loan. If capital is thin, lenders weigh experience and personal history.

Operational grit: In small businesses, things go wrong daily. Learn to smile and solve problems.

Resilience: Shannon Jones put it best: “I want to work with people who’ve screwed things up, own it and learn from it.”

Curiosity and creativity: Openness fuels finding the right fit—and helping a business thrive.

Relationship building: Build trust early with sellers and connect with key customers, vendors and suppliers.

Buying existing businesses is the next big move for entrepreneurs—and Colorado is writing its own playbook with a new conference, courses, and a forthcoming Executive Education program at the Leeds School of Business.

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Timely—and Timeless—Career Insights at EdInvest Forum

Jane Majkiewicz — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 15:46:03 +0000

Timely—and Timeless—Career Insights at EdInvest Forum Jane Majkiewicz Fri, 10/31/2025 - 09:46

Jane Majkiewicz

At the Personal Financial Planning Program’s (PFP) 3rd annual EdInvest Wealth Management Forum on October 24, Leeds students gained hands-on experience and career insights through real-world challenges.

From left to right, 2024 finance graduates Brad Hostetler, Chevie Walerowicz, Gilly Halzel and Luke Johnson, and Lexi Schmidt from Beacon Pointe.

This year’s forum, which was facilitated by the Burridge Center for Finance, featured early career and senior advisor career panels, as well as student-led financial literacy roundtables hosted by members of the Financial Planning Student Club.

Additionally, Harry Starn, teaching professor and director of the PFP program, organized a Financial Planning Case Competition sponsored by First Manhattan. The competition featured six teams developing a comprehensive plan that they presented to industry professionals. First- and second-place teams were awarded prizes of $2,000 and $1,000, respectively.

Real-world wisdom for new finance managers

The early career panel featured four Leeds alumni along with industry professional Lexi Schmidt, a wealth advisor at Beacon Pointe. The panel shared candid insights about transitioning from college to the workplace and paths to career success. Luke Jackson (Fin’24), now an associate wealth advisor at Beacon Pointe, described how his internship led to a full-time role and how navigating a three-office merger taught him adaptability.

Gilad “Gilly” Halzel (Fin’24) advanced from client service associate to wealth advisor at Mariner Wealth Advisors and stressed the importance of networking. Chevie Walerowicz (Fin’24) credited her junior-year internship at Mariner for paving the way to her current role as an associate wealth advisor. Brad Hostetler (Fin’24), a financial planning associate at TCI Wealth Advisors, landed his position immediately after graduation.

Students like Denise Arroyo Rojas (Fin’28) found the event invaluable. “I was particularly excited about this event since I’m a sophomore, while most attendees were seniors in the PFP program or had an established career as a financial planner. Everything that the panelists said was fresh and relevant information. I’m grateful to be invited to events like these that give me a chance to peek at what I could possibly be doing after Leeds.”

Key takeaways for career success

Manage energy and time wisely
Halzel noted the shift from college freedom to full-time structure: “Staying energized all day is a big adjustment,” he said, and it’s also about balancing life outside the office. Walerowicz added, “Learn to prioritize and figure out what makes you happy. You’ll have less time for friends and hobbies, so plan for things like going to the gym.”

Interview the company, too
Hostetler encouraged students to approach interviews as mutual evaluations, emphasizing the importance of cultural fit and shared values.

Job or location first?
Schmidt shared her experience of moving to New York, California and then Colorado, the latter of which she came to without having a specific job offer. Lesson learned: “Having a job prior to moving to a city can alleviate so much stress.”

Be a ‘yes’ person
Hostetler advised new hires to immerse themselves as much as possible. “Join meetings, introduce yourself and learn how both individuals and the team work to get a holistic view.”

Make yourself valuable
Jackson suggested identifying gaps and then pursuing certifications to help fill them. “I noticed a skills gap in blockchain and digital assets, so I learned more to add value.”

Classroom knowledge counts
Halzel reinforced the classroom-to-career link. For example, he was skeptical at first but ended up loving a tax planning course taught by Nicole Lazzeri, assistant teaching professor of accounting. He discovered what he learned “is relevant to everything I do at work.”

Build relationships and seek mentors
Halzel emphasized the industry’s collaborative nature. “Colleagues want to help you … listen to their experiences and different specialties.” He reminded students that networking is a lifelong skill and is about authentic connections and natural conversations. Schmidt agreed, noting, “There are no dumb questions.”

Skills That Matter

Early career panelists highlighted important skills to cultivate, both during a job search as well as throughout one's career.

Authenticity and patience
Walerowicz urged students to be themselves and not stress about having everything figured out. Hostetler added that it’s important to enjoy life and not only focus on your career track. “You’re working really hard … remember to give yourself some grace.”

Soft skills and curiosity
Jackson highlighted trust-building through curiosity. He recommended being well read. “The ability to walk into a room and talk with someone about their passion—that will build a connection immediately.”

Mentorship and continuous learning
Panelists unilaterally recommended seeking advice broadly, not only one-to-one, and taking advantage of every available resource, such as training videos.

Tech savviness and AI integration
Technology is reshaping the industry. Panelists said AI tools are increasingly part of their workday and can help with things like research, staying informed about news and generating reports.

Remote work discipline
Schmidt recommended keeping your day busy and structured to avoid procrastination.

The future financial planner

Hostetler knew early on that he wanted to be an advisor, but he stressed the importance of exploring options. The industry offers many paths: “You can be client-facing without being an advisor. There are roles in client service, relationship management and investment committees. Internships and job searches help you discover what you don’t like and narrow down what you do want. If you can find that alignment, that’s really useful.”

Schmidt added that staying informed is critical. “The future of financial planning is about balance. Read widely and stay on top of news to have educated discussions,” she noted, pointing out that different generations and cultural nuances play a role in expectations.

Hostetler emphasized a shift in priorities. “It’s less about chasing excess returns and more about relationships—making clients feel comfortable, understanding risk tolerance, and covering retirement, cash flow and budgeting cohesively.”

The Leeds advantage

Events like the EdInvest Forum showcase Leeds’ commitment to preparing students for dynamic careers through networking opportunities, case competitions, career treks and more.

“CFP® Professionals are dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve their personal and financial goals,” said Starn. “The Leeds Personal Financial Planning (PFP) Program prepares students with both the technical expertise and interpersonal skills needed for success. Experiences beyond the classroom—such as the EdInvest Wealth Management Forum, internships, networking events and Financial Planning Club activities—provide students with insights that help them discover their career pathways within the financial services industry.”

Interested in exploring the Personal Financial Planning Program at Leeds? Learn more about the curriculum and career opportunities.

This fall’s EdInvest Wealth Management Forum showcased six teams competing in the Financial Planning Case Competition, alongside engaging panels and roundtables—including a standout session where five industry professionals shared early career insights.

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Startups and Sandwiches: Failure, Fortune and Finding Your Purpose

Jane Majkiewicz — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 22:10:55 +0000

Startups and Sandwiches: Failure, Fortune and Finding Your Purpose Jane Majkiewicz Tue, 10/28/2025 - 16:10

Grace Garfoot

What do a finance consulting founder, a mirror designer-manufacturer, and a biotech entrepreneur turned artist have in common? At this week’s Startups & Sandwiches, they distilled their diverse entrepreneurial journeys into a shared theme: transforming lessons into meaningful careers and life paths.

“Failure, Fortune and Finding Your Purpose” was the compelling theme of the latest Startups & Sandwiches, a seminar series sponsored by the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship. Three industry executives with different entrepreneurial backgrounds shared vulnerable stories about the highs and lows of their career journeys.

Guest speakers Carol Hansen, founder and CEO of Tatonka Ventures; Josh Mandel, president and CEO of Majestic Mirror & Frame; and Andy Sklawer, founder and former CEO of Fresh Tracks Therapeutics and current owner of a 51�Թ�� art gallery, inspired the audience with their insights and hard-won advice. Their personal stories brought a fresh perspective to timeless advice on building a fulfilling career and life.

Failing and finding yourself

Andy Sklawer willingly shared some of the tough circumstances that shaped who he is today.

As a child with undiagnosed ADHD, he explained how being given the space to heal changed how he approached failure and his capacity for success. “It was the first time in my life that I had the opportunity to focus on myself. What I realized is that it is OK to ask for help.”

Life Lessons to Take to Heart

As part of the Deming Center’s SPARK Initiative, Startups & Sandwiches brings students together with seasoned entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs, venture capitalists, connectors and technology leaders ... and they leave each seminar with more than lunch.

At the “Failure, Fortune and Finding Your Purpose” session, panelists Carol Hansen, Josh Mandel and Andy Sklawer shared personal stories to embolden the next generation of business leaders to believe in themselves and take risks. Here is some of their shared advice.

Don’t hold yourself to an impossible standard. Even the people you look up to the most don’t have it all, so allow yourself to make sacrifices and be imperfect.
Recognize that mentorship comes in many forms. Observe characteristics and small details in the people and the world around you to find inspiration.
Don’t be afraid of change or failure. Embrace both and learn from them to avoid making the same mistake twice.
Do it. You don’t know if something is going to work until you try it.
Be grateful for where you are and acknowledge all aspects of your life that drive you. Don’t let your goals become entirely motivated by money.
Ask for help if you need it.
Don’t measure your success against someone else’s. Everyone’s path is different.

He also experienced a dramatic fall that plunged him into a significant life change. He descended 30 feet off a rock wall, leaving him with a shattered leg but miraculously still alive. “What I learned from that was to immediately go to gratitude, because it’s a beautiful thing that we’re all sitting here and we’re alive,” he said.

“It’s so easy to get in your head with business and school, but we are all here, and it’s important to be grateful.” The second thing is to be present, he emphasized, urging the audience to remember to “put your phone down.”

Changing the way you see success

Josh Mandel shared how his definition of success continues to evolve and has changed throughout his career and personal trajectory. After graduating from CU, his goals revolved around making money. Having children shifted his focus to to providing for and supporting his family. A self-proclaimed “girl dad,” Mandel highlighted how being there for his daughters became more important than the work trips that once consumed his time.

“Don’t judge your success by someone else’s scorecard,” he said. He reminded attendees that everyone defines success differently, and it’s OK for that definition to change over time. “The only constant is change, and you have to be open to it.”

Finding mentors everywhere

Carol Hansen's perspective was shaped by observing people whom she didn’t consider role models as much as by those whom she would want to emulate.

“What resonated with me was people along the way who I did not want to be like,” she said, referring to specific characteristics as well as to entire personalities. She summed it up: “Look for people who you don’t want to be like or ways you don’t want to behave.”

She also found that she derived meaning from her life’s work when she could see the direct impact her business was having on the community around her. “I don’t feel like I have a profound purpose,” she explained. For her, the overall goal has always been to be a good person and contribute to society.

“I found niches of purpose across each one of the businesses that we started,” she explained. Purpose doesn’t have to come in one grand package, she reassured the audience. “There’s nothing wrong if you don’t have that right away.”

What do a finance consulting founder, a mirror designer-manufacturer, and a biotech entrepreneur turned artist have in common? At this week’s Startups & Sandwiches, they distilled their diverse journeys into a shared theme: transforming life’s lessons into meaningful careers.

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Turning Ideas into Action in the EMBA Innovation Challenge

Jane Majkiewicz — Sun, 19 Oct 2025 15:17:04 +0000

Turning Ideas into Action in the EMBA Innovation Challenge Jane Majkiewicz Sun, 10/19/2025 - 09:17

Jane Majkiewicz

One of the signature programs of the Leeds Executive MBA Program is the EMBA Innovation Challenge—a hands-on experience in which students develop innovative solutions for real-world clients and pitch their ideas to a panel of judges.

Erin Johnson (EMBA’26), one of the members of the winning team for the spring 2025 EMBA Innovation Challenge, was thrilled to see the team’s work come to life this fall at SideDoor Hair Salon, the 51�Թ�� business they partnered with for the project.

The team proposed “The Red Room,” a red light therapy service that co-owners Laurel Doxsey and Lisa Lynde eagerly implemented.

“When we partnered with the local 51�Թ�� salon to create a new revenue stream, I had no idea we were building something truly special,” shared Johnson on LinkedIn, saying the red light therapy room is “generating real revenue and delighting customers.”

Using existing space at the salon, the winning team proposed offering red light therapy, a non-invasive skincare treatment using red and near-infrared wavelengths.

"What I'm most excited about is the relationships built along the way with the owners. Their willingness to open their doors, share their challenges and trust our vision was humbling."

Erin Johnson (EMBA’26)

Johnson reflected, “What I'm most excited about is the relationships built along the way with owners Lisa and Laurel. Their willingness to open their doors, share their challenges and trust our vision was humbling. Seeing the genuine excitement in their eyes when The Red Room launched reminded me why I love what we're doing,” she said.

A timely partnership

“After the pandemic, it was a pretty rough time for us,” said Lynde. As the salon underwent a management transition, a partner introduced them to the EMBA Innovation Challenge.

“We were up for the challenge—to have the opportunity for graduate students to help us figure out a better business plan, or to see where they could help us grow,” she added.

The team—Johnson, Anna Coragliotti, Ashley Wang, Cherie Jarvis and Martha Siegmund—all EMBA students graduating in spring 2026—met with the owners multiple times to understand the business and its challenges. Lynde especially appreciated the in-person meetings.

“They really listened and asked questions about our business,” she said. In her 41 years in the salon business, Lynde was delighted to see that the team came up with a novel way to use the existing space. It aligned perfectly with their mission to offer relaxing experiences to clients.

Strategy meets innovation

Emily Ryan (EMBA’23), a judge at the challenge, knows firsthand how impactful the experience is. As a former participant, she appreciated how the challenge was embedded within the semester’s coursework.

“During the term you’re taking the innovation project, you're also doing coursework focused on HR and people strategy. You're also taking a financial course focused on projecting, profitability and building out financial models. Having the trio work in tandem adds depth to the presentation,” Ryan said.

“You’re not just innovating for the market—you’re thinking about staffing, specialization, equipment needs, and how to project and recoup investments."

Emily Ryan (EMBA’23)

She emphasized that students gain exposure beyond their usual work silos. “You’re not just innovating for the market—you’re thinking about staffing, specialization, equipment needs, and how to project and recoup investments,” she said. “We learned statistics, economics, accounting, finance, and marketing. The Innovation Challenge pulls it all together—intentionally—around finance, HR and innovation," she added.

There’s another benefit: “It’s super fun.”

Fresh thinking for businesses

“When you’re enmeshed in your day-to-day, it’s hard to think outside the box,” Ryan said. “Having an external party with no prior insight into the business brings fresh perspectives.”

Johnson echoed that sentiment: “This is what the Executive MBA education is about—building bridges between academic excellence and real-world impact, creating a network of innovators who lift each other up, and strengthening our local business community in the process.”

The Leeds Executive MBA Innovation Challenge transforms classroom learning into real-world impact—last spring’s winning team helped a local salon launch a new service that’s already generating revenue and delighting customers.

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A Passion for Fashion: Introducing Leeds’ New Student Club

Jane Majkiewicz — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 22:14:46 +0000

A Passion for Fashion: Introducing Leeds’ New Student Club Jane Majkiewicz Tue, 10/14/2025 - 16:14

Grace Garfoot

This fall, Ryder Nicolaus (Mktg’28) and Oliver Welsh (Bus, Fin’28) launched the Fashion Case Club at Leeds. With ambitions to expand beyond the Leeds community, the duo is shaping the club’s mission to incorporate underrepresented aspects of fashion while building a following, securing notable guest speakers and actively growing valuable industry connections.

Sewing the seeds of inspiration

Friends and fashion entrepreneurs Ryder Nicolaus (Mktg’28) and Oliver Welsh (Bus, Fin’28) didn’t wait for college to start making their mark. Even before arriving at Leeds, they had already launched their own branded clothing lines–Nicolaus with PAX Apparel and Welsh with Chill Ville. Now, as undergrads, they’ve channeled that shared passion into founding the Fashion Case Club—Leeds’ first student organization focused on the fashion industry.

The idea took shape last year over winter break, when the two realized that Leeds lacked representation for students interested in the business of fashion. “We feel like this is something that doesn’t have a lot of resources at CU and Leeds,” Welsh said. “Fashion as a whole is underrepresented within clubs and classes, especially compared to other universities. That’s why we started the club."

With a strong attendance at its first few meetings and an unfolding lineup of high-profile guest speakers, the club is already gaining traction.

“I’ve always been into really niche, creative endeavors, whether it was making rings or woodworking. I also knew that I wanted to go into business, so combining those two aspects, I decided to start my own clothing company,” Nicolaus (pictured right) said. “I wanted to experience what it was like running a company, so I decided to do that through something I really enjoy. I like the marketing and business analytics side of it, and that’s what brought me to Leeds,” he added.

For both Welsh and Nicolaus, getting into fashion was sparked by the desire to design their own clothes and appreciating the thrift culture. When visiting Leeds during an admitted students’ day, it resonated with them to hear that some graduates had gone on to work at North Face.

After getting their new club registered as an official Leeds student club, Nicolaus and Welsh promoted it at the Leedsapalooza annual student club event, catching the attention of CJ Riggins, an advisor for the Deming Center for Entrepreneurship. Intrigued by their apparel and their effort to bring a fashion initiative to Leeds, she became a faculty sponsor for the club.

“She has been so helpful in that role,” said Welsh. “I think she loves seeing students come together who are creatively driven entrepreneurs,” he added. And with fashion being the seventh largest industry in the world, projected to reach $1.87 trillion in 2025, Riggins’ support further validated for Nicolaus and Walsh that fashion should have a place in the business conversations happening at Leeds. Entrepreneurs like Garmai Matthew (MBA’25) and Rylan Montoya (Bus’25) are prime examples of Leeds students who have applied their business education to fashion startups.

Following the threads

As they’ve begun to hold meetings, the club has attracted new members by lining up high-level fashion industry insiders. One of their first meetings featured speaker Anthony Pace, a representative from Crocs. An executive from Ralph Lauren will be an upcoming presenter.

Attracting speakers of that caliber is a result of something Welsh and Nicolaus have been practicing in both life and business: persistence.

“We started off by cold calling on LinkedIn, and the success rate wasn’t great for that,” Welsh admitted. “But every time someone did reach out, we would make sure to be as enthusiastic and as sociable as we could to make an impression.”

“One of the first people we met with—who works at North Face—gave us helpful information on how we could improve our networking. Since then, every time we talk to someone, we ask them for contacts they can pass on,” Welsh added.

“It’s cool being a part of Leeds because you learn how intertwined everyone is networking-wise," said Nicolaus. His connections for the new club started in the Sustainable Business Club: “From there, I spoke to someone in Leeds and asked for a connection, and she was the one who led us to a contact from North Face.”

Setting trends for the 51�Թ�� community

As they move past the initial stages of evolving the club, Welsh and Nicolaus want to open it to any CU student that is interested in fashion, giving them practical industry experience before they go out into the world. "We are a business-oriented club, but that doesn’t mean we’re exclusive to business," said Welsh.

The co-founders want to expose students to professional aspects of the fashion industry that are cross-disciplinary and applicable to a wide range of interests. They plan to address subjects such as color theory, retail math, merchandising, and other real-world concepts that aren’t typically taught in the classroom. For fashion-oriented and non-fashion-oriented people alike, Welsh and Nicolaus believe this learning will be invaluable.

“We’re going to teach concepts through workshops, case studies and guest speakers. We will offer topics that anyone considering the fashion industry should learn," said Welsh.

As the co-founders continue to raise the club’s visibility and look forward to carving out their professional career paths, they have already learned one essential component of success—collaboration. They both echoed the same sentiment: They couldn’t do this without each other.

Leeds’ new Fashion Case Club is tailoring its focus on the business of fashion to engage students across the 51�Թ�� community. With a growing membership and a lineup of industry insiders, the club is stitching together style, innovation and opportunity.

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Getting Down to Business: How Leeds’ Career Events Can Turn Handshakes into Hires

Jane Majkiewicz — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 16:39:38 +0000

Getting Down to Business: How Leeds’ Career Events Can Turn Handshakes into Hires Jane Majkiewicz Fri, 09/26/2025 - 10:39

Jane Majkiewicz

The Leeds Career Development Office hosted three days of its signature fall programming, highlighted by the All Industries Career Fair—a lively event at 51�Թ��'s new Limelight Hotel. Students gave the event a resoundingly positive review, and now they’re keeping up the momentum as they pursue new connections, internships and career opportunities.

More than 900 undergraduate and graduate students convened at the Limelight to kick off the fall semester by exploring internship and career opportunities, from stepping stones to leadership tracks and permanent positions. A total of 79 businesses participated in the All Industries Career Fair on Sept. 17, creating a lively atmosphere filled with connection, curiosity and conversation.

Dressed in business attire and armed with polished resumes, students arrived ready to make strong first impressions. Their professional demeanor set the tone for meaningful conversations with recruiters, many of whom noted the students’ preparedness and enthusiasm.

“The Career Fair gives students the chance to explore opportunities and connect with employers across industries in a supportive, structured environment.”

Angie Vermillion, associate director of Employer Relations

Clusters of students gathered around tables hosted by companies such as Cain Travel, Crowe, Enterprise Mobility, memoryBlue, CBRE, Danone, Sprouts, Artist Capital, Comcast and Sage Hospitality—just a sampling of the diverse organizations represented. Nonprofit organizations, including the Peace Corps and Teach for America, also had a presence. The fair showcased businesses across all industries represented by Leeds’ 10 academic areas of emphasis.

Company posters enticed students with remote work, employee perks and leadership possibilities, such as Parallon and HCA Healthcare’s note that 85% of their former associates are currently in leadership positions. Inspirational slogans added to the visual flair:

“Our Brands. Your Future.”—Gallo
“Work Where You Belong”—Sage Hospitality
“Let’s Build Something Big”—ibotta
“Grow with Us”—Tallgrass Energy

From table talks to career moves

“I definitely think the career fair was a good use of my time,” said Lucas Fernandes (Fin, Acct’27), who spoke with representatives from Comcast, among other businesses. “Not only did I find out about internship opportunities that I previously wouldn’t have known about, but I was able to get a few contacts that I can use to leverage my network and opportunities.”

Students surveyed gave the event a resoundingly positive review, describing it as 'awesome,' 'well done' and 'very helpful'—especially appreciating the opportunity to connect with companies.

“The Career Fair gives students the chance to explore opportunities and connect with employers across industries in a supportive, structured environment,” said Angie Vermillion, associate director of Employer Relations at Leeds.

Kristin Day, an HR specialist with Tallgrass Energy, attended her first Leeds event and was impressed by the students’ professionalism and confidence. "We met many great candidates. They were all wonderful to talk with and very engaged in the conversations," she said. “I was impressed with the way students presented themselves. It made them stand out as a whole,” she added.

“Not only did I find out about internship opportunities that I previously wouldn’t have known about, but I was able to get a few contacts that I can use to leverage my network and opportunities.”

Lucas Fernandes (Fin, Acct’27)

To help students prepare, Leeds hosted a Career Workshop the day before the fair that focused on resume building, interview practice and networking skills. Following the fair, an “Instant Interviews” event offered more than 100 students a chance to engage directly with top professionals at 10 companies—often bypassing the formal application stage, Vermillion said.

“Together, these experiences not only boost students’ confidence in their professional readiness, but they also help them form authentic, lasting connections with employers and alumni—connections that can lead to internships, jobs and long-term career success,” she added.

Keeping up the momentum (and staying motivated)

Vermillion encourages students to follow up with employers they met at the fair—whether through a thank-you note, LinkedIn connection or application—to keep those new relationships active. Meeting with a career coach is another valuable next step to refine resumes, practice interviewing, or discuss tailored strategies for the opportunities they are pursuing.

“Students can also strengthen their confidence and skills by joining student organizations, participating in case competitions, or attending upcoming Leeds programs like career treks to meet directly with companies at their offices,” Vermillion said.

“Continuing to engage with Career Development ensures that students not only maintain momentum but also grow their professional network and readiness for future recruiting cycles,” she added.

One employer commented, “The quality of students was top-notch. There were lots of good introductions and great questions.” That sentiment was widely shared, underscoring the strong impression Leeds students make.

Making Career Events Work: Five Reasons to Show Up and Stand Out

Leeds Associate Director of Employer Relations Angie Vermillion outlined key career event benefits for students.

Increased confidence: Feel prepared to introduce yourself professionally, talk about your skills and navigate conversations with employers.
Practical experience: Gain first-hand practice with resume reviews, mock interviews and networking in real recruiting settings.
Meaningful connections: Build new relationships with employers, alumni and industry professionals that can lead to internships, full-time roles or ongoing mentorship.
Career insights: Acquire a clearer understanding of industries, company cultures and career pathways that align with your goals.
Opportunities for next steps: Secure an interview, receive a job or internship offer, or get invited to apply—moving you closer to your goals and dream careers.

Be sure to stay connected with the Career Development Office's advisors and to keep track of career events >>

The Leeds Career Development Office kicked off the fall semester with three days of its signature programming, highlighted by the All Industries Career Fair—a lively event that filled the ballroom at 51�Թ��’s new Limelight Hotel.

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Maria Julia (MJ) Maymone (Bus’29)

Jane Majkiewicz — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 20:07:12 +0000

Maria Julia (MJ) Maymone (Bus’29) Jane Majkiewicz Wed, 09/24/2025 - 14:07

Georgia Horan

Faces of Leeds Snapshot

Name: Maria Julia (MJ) Maymone
Major: Business Strategy and Entrepreneurship International Business
Hometown: Campo Grande, Brazil

Just one month into her time at Leeds, Maria Julia Maymone (Bus’29) had already accomplished more than what many can in one year. Her unwavering determination and drive are what led her to Leeds, where she was drawn to the school’s student-driven ethos and the many opportunities and clubs available. She quickly immersed herself in campus life, joining the competitive figure skating team, the competitive triathlon team and the Chi Omega Sorority.

Maymone intends to graduate in three years and pursue international corporate law. Before Leeds, she said she thought of business as two-dimensional, not realizing all the complexities and people that go into its creation A leadership retreat with the Dean’s Leadership Fellows Program opened her eyes to how complex business is, and how much it revolves around community and teamwork. The experience has significantly shaped her academic and career aspirations, which include learning about all types of businesses and establishing herself to be able to practice law in multiple countries.

Coming from Campo Grande, Brazil, English is Maymone’s second language, but she thrives in situations where she can learn and grow. She has self-published two fiction books in English and is working on her third, making her more eager to study entrepreneurship to make her ideas—like her books—come to life.

I chose Leeds for many reasons, but one of them is that there were numerous opportunities to make a positive impact. At Leeds, it feels like students are the ones who get to create their own path.

Maria Julia Maymone (Bus’29) is no stranger to blazing her own trail. A native of Brazil, she has already written two books and is on her third, and she aims to graduate in three years to pursue a global career in corporate law.

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Bridging Classroom and Career: Leeds Launches Business Leaders-in-Residence Program

Jane Majkiewicz — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 20:12:28 +0000

Bridging Classroom and Career: Leeds Launches Business Leaders-in-Residence Program Jane Majkiewicz Fri, 09/19/2025 - 14:12

Leeds is launching its Business Leaders-in-Residence (BLIR) program on Oct. 8, a full day of exclusive student access to prominent visiting business leaders for career guidance, mentorship and networking.

Jennifer Bone, associate dean for Undergraduate Programs, Craig and Cynthia Smith Faculty Scholar, and teaching professor of business communication, shared insights about the new program and how it will help prepare students for lifelong career success.

What was the impetus to create the new Business Leaders-in-Residence program, and who is it for?

The Business Leaders-in-Residence (BLIR) program was created to provide Leeds students with direct access to seasoned industry professionals who can offer guidance at every stage of their academic and professional journey. The program is designed for all Leeds students:

First-year students exploring areas of emphasis and considering career paths.
Sophomores and juniors preparing for internships and seeking advice on how to best position themselves for the job search.
Seniors transitioning into the workforce and looking for strategies to launch their careers.
Graduate students interested in developing skills to pivot into new roles, functions or industries.

This year, Leeds is piloting a smaller BLIR event focused on sophomores, seniors and graduate students, with plans to expand the program in future years to cover 13–15 industry tracks.

What businesses will participate, and why are they involved?

For this year’s pilot, we are bringing in 14 leaders representing a wide range of industries, including accounting, finance, consulting, business analytics and marketing. Confirmed organizations include:

Liberty Media
Disney
RSM
KPMG
Korn Ferry
Pivotal Consulting
Google

51�Թ�� Associates
Anthem Branding
JumpCloud
Cain Travel
Allora
Bow River Capital
Birds Eye Advisory

These companies are involved because they value investing in the next generation of business leaders and are interested in working specifically with Leeds students. Many of these leaders are also in the Leeds Professional Mentorship Program. They are eager to share their expertise, mentor students, and help bridge the gap between the classroom and professional practice.

“The Business Leaders-in-Residence program helps students graduate not just with a degree, but with the confidence, skills and networks necessary to thrive.”

Jennifer Bone, associate dean for Undergraduate Programs

How is this program a gateway to career opportunities and career readiness for students?

The BLIR program is designed to connect students directly with leaders across diverse industries, providing personalized insights into career pathways, required skills and emerging trends. Through one-on-one and small group interactions, students will gain a clearer understanding of career options and receive guidance on aligning their interests with opportunities. Students will also build professional readiness by learning what employers look for in internships and early career hires, while developing mentorship and networks that extend beyond the classroom. By embedding these connections early and often, BLIR helps students graduate not just with a degree, but with the confidence, skills and networks necessary to thrive.

How does the BLIR fit into Leeds’ Strategic Plan?

This program directly supports our Strategic Initiative called the “Leeds Edge: Lifelong Career Success & Connections.” It advances the school’s commitment to equipping students with lifelong career readiness skills while cultivating strong connections with industry leaders.

By scaling the program to eventually encompass 13–15 industry tracks, Leeds will be creating a program that ensures every student can access high-impact mentorship and guidance as part of their educational experience.

Fourteen industry leaders will kick off Leeds' Business Leader-in-Residence program on Oct. 8, connecting students with career guidance, mentorship and networking for lifelong career success.

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How Leeds Students Turned Summer Break into Business

Jane Majkiewicz — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 19:05:11 +0000

How Leeds Students Turned Summer Break into Business Jane Majkiewicz Fri, 09/12/2025 - 13:05

Grace Garfoot

Though school stopped for the summer, many Leeds students did not stop learning and gaining experience as summer break took them out into the world. From media management to financial analysis, Business Buffs pursued their passions while developing skills through hands-on experiences—applying what they learned in the classroom.

Summer sunshine and startups

James Anderson (MBA’26) spent his summer as one of the co-managing directors for Startup Summer 2025, an experiential entrepreneurship program for undergraduate students hosted by Silicon Flatirons at 51�Թ��. Anderson (pictured right) described his role as dynamic. He began the summer by helping plan and program the curriculum down to each weekly session, along with leading the recruiting and admissions process.

Once the program launched, his responsibilities shifted to hosting the sessions, coordinating with keynote speakers and mentors, and serving as a resource for the student teams. He was also responsible for summarizing the weekly events in a recap newsletter, as well as briefing students for the upcoming week’s agenda.

“The sessions we hosted were incredible opportunities to deepen my understanding of core business and entrepreneurial practices,” Anderson said. “Topics ranged from customer discovery led by Erick Mueller [executive director of the Deming Center] to prototyping, legal considerations and more. Having to take these business topics and make them applicable to 11 different and unique startups is always an exciting test to see how well you actually know something!”

Anderson had always been intrigued by founding a company but hadn't had the right idea to pursue that path. The accelerator space provided him with a unique middle ground—a place where he could apply the fundamentals he learned during his first year of the MBA program to help new founders take their first steps. “This role expanded my professional network meaningfully—I walked away with new connections, including a personal mentor I’ll continue to learn from,” he said.

“I highly recommend Startup Summer for undergraduate students who want hands-on exposure to entrepreneurship, and for graduate students to apply for the managing director roles.”

This role expanded my professional network meaningfully—I walked away with new connections, including a personal mentor I’ll continue to learn from.

James Anderson (MBA’26)

Outdoor adventures and internships

Sofia Blanco (Mktg’26) spent her summer at Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) working a hybrid schedule as an events and marketing intern. Blanco (pictured left) worked remotely in 51�Թ�� and went to Denver a few days each week. As the events and marketing intern, she was a member of the communications team, working closely with each department across the company. Some of her responsibilities included managing and producing content for GOCO’s social channels, conducting research on current environmental news, contacting news outlets for press releases, attending community outreach events, designing merch/swag and assisting with drafting the monthly newsletter.

“I have learned so much,” Blanco reflected. “I have come to appreciate the good that comes from working with a close-knit team of people who have a common goal in mind. For GOCO, that means helping preserve our beautiful state. Everyone at the company is so community-minded, and I have learned how important it is to remember the ‘why’ behind what we are doing.”

Blanco found the internship while she was “on the hunt” for a way to apply the knowledge that she’d been learning in her Leeds classes. Because of the positive experience she had with GOCO, she is continuing her work with the company throughout the school year.

“Securing an internship is a great experience for anyone,” she said. “If a student can secure an internship at a company where they genuinely enjoy what they're doing, that's the way to go. I often don't even feel like I am doing work, because it is just so fun, and I am inspired by what GOCO does.”

I have come to appreciate the good that comes from working with a close-knit team of people who have a common goal in mind.

Sofia Blanco (Mktg’26)

Fun and finance

Grace Trujillo (Fin, Acct’26) felt fortunate to spend her summer participating in two internships: the Strategic Finance, Accounting and Growth Internship with NCS Systems, and interning with Miller and Law PC in Littleton, Colorado.

For her NCS Systems internship, Trujillo (pictured left) spent the summer working closely with the CEO, standardizing all finance and accounting procedures for the company. She established a process for basic accounting transactions to ensure they adhered to US GAAP and other relevant guidelines, along with performing various financial analyses and examining financial factors ranging from new projects to implementing employee raises.

“Since there has never been a CFO at NCS Systems, I gained a lot of experience by sort of playing CFO,” Trujillo said. “I made a lot of mistakes and was able to learn along the way, and I mastered the skills that I was exposed to in the classroom at Leeds. I learned a lot about leadership, initiative, and especially about managing my time, balancing two jobs and a full course load.”

One of the reasons Trujillo pursued both internships was because she plans to graduate from Leeds in three years instead of four. Her goal was to get as much experience as possible over the summer. She believes internships at startups are the best way to gain a lot of practical experience in a short amount of time, acquiring skills that employers want to see.

“The most challenging part was the time management piece,” Trujillo said. “I was working all day, followed by my schoolwork and preparation at night for the next day, while managing my relationships, travel plans and time for my hobbies."

But the investment was worth it. "I truly believe that the processes I created at NCS will allow them to grow and scale in a more efficient way, and I saved the company a lot of headaches that could have occurred down the line.”

I learned a lot about leadership, initiative, and especially about managing my time.

Grace Trujillo (Fin, Acct’26)

Fall colors and continued opportunities

Get in on the Action

Learn about Leeds’ experiential learning opportunities >>

These three Business Buffs represent the many ways in which Leeds students keep their learning alive over the summer, gaining valuable work skills and life experiences.

Experiential learning is part of a Leeds education all year long, through internships and micro-internships, career treks, case competitions, enhanced in-classroom academic experiences, and courses such as Designing Your Leeds for first-year students. Designing Your Leeds for Career Preparation, which is focused on internship readiness, is being piloted this semester for sophomores.

From startup accelerators to environmental advocacy and financial strategy, Business Buffs spent their summer applying classroom knowledge in dynamic, real-world settings.

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