FALL 2021
The Rewards
of Mentoring
Stepping out of her comfort
zone and into leadership
// Student Feature
When Pitt Business students set foot on campus, they immediately have access to some of the world’s best resources. So, it’s no question why Kayla Haddad (BSBA ’21) turned to the College of Business Administration after two years at another university.
“I wanted to step out of my comfort zone, learn how to get around the city, and figure things out on my own,” says Haddad. “Pitt Business is nationally ranked, has amazing professors and alumni, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”
Once Haddad officially enrolled as a student, she immersed herself in student organizations like Kappa Kappa Gamma; Strong Women, Strong Girls; and Women in Business. She set out to take advantage of as many opportunities as possible—her favorite being the cohost of the school’s Diverse Leaders Summit this past spring. The summit, which included a fireside chat between Silicon Valley CEO and author Shellye Archambeau and the University’s then-senior vice chancellor for engagement Kathy Humphrey, focused on the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.
“I loved being able to cohost and have real conversations with our corporate partners and how they take part in diversity and inclusion,” says Haddad. “It’s crucial to have these deep conversations with students as well.”
“I wanted to step out of my comfort zone, learn how to get around the city, and figure things out on my own,” says Haddad. “Pitt Business is nationally ranked, has amazing professors and alumni, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”
CONNECTING TO SUCCESS
Haddad’s involvement and dedication to leadership helped earn her the 2021 College of Business Administration Alumni Leadership Award. Nominated by faculty, staff, and members of the graduating class, this award is given to a graduating senior who has exemplified outstanding leadership qualities and has represented Pitt Business in a positive light.
One of the key programs Haddad was involved in was Alumni Connect, previously known as Mentoring Match, a program that allows students to connect with Pitt Business alumni from a diverse range of industries and specializations. Mentoring Match connected Haddad to Jeremy Burke (BSBA ’07), a Pitt Business alumnus who currently works in marketing for Nestlé.
“It’s been very rewarding to connect with current students and share in their success knowing that you helped to play a small part in their journey,” says Burke. “As an alum, it’s important for me to give back through programs like Mentoring Match, as it creates a direct relationship with the students in the program and allows you to truly see how you can make a difference in someone’s life.”
Through their connection, Burke helped Haddad land an internship with Nestlé during the summer of 2020. Upon completion of her internship, Haddad was offered a full-time role in the Nestlé Sales Development Program in Dallas, Texas.
“Mentoring Match really helped prepare me for success when it came to connecting with alumni who ultimately guided me to obtain my full-time offer. If it wasn’t for the program, I wouldn’t be in the position I am today with Nestlé, and for that I am forever grateful,” says Haddad.
Burke is confident in Haddad’s personal and technical skills, and that her Pitt Business education has fully prepared her to enter the professional world.
“Kayla’s natural curiosity and passion, coupled with her educational experiences, is a powerful combination,” says Burke. “I know Kayla has a bright future ahead of her and will have an amazing career because of the effort and work ethic she brings to her goals and her team every day.”
