Hannah Kelly ’23
Finance major,  Health Care Management minor
Finance Leadership Development Program (FLDP) Financial Analyst, Johnson & Johnson

How did Butler prepare you for your career?
Butler offered many opportunities inside and outside the classroom that taught me various lessons, translating to my work and personal life. The University’s liberal arts and major-specific coursework enhanced my writing, public speaking, and analyzing skills. Attending DEI events also reinforced the importance of listening to other perspectives and being open-minded. Butler’s extracurricular activities, such as clubs, sorority/fraternity life, career fairs, etc., allowed me to try new things and meet new people.

What skills or knowledge gained at Butler have been most useful in your career?
The most helpful skill I gained as a student was critical thinking. New issues arise in any career, and a standard solution may need to be created. My classes and internship opportunities have shown me how to use my resources, network, and ask questions.

What is the most important thing you learned at Butler?
The most important thing I learned through my Butler experience is to “stay balanced.” Whether that be investing time into schoolwork, exercise, social life, or personal time. You’ll always pull you in different directions and Butler taught me the importance of prioritization.

Who influenced you the most while you were a student?
Randy Brown, my Lacy School of Business Career Mentor, was the most influential part of my college career. He was not only a fantastic resource but also a great friend. Randy offered his advice on various topics, from interviewing, networking for pre/post-graduate opportunities, responding to job offers, and more. From catching up at Starbucks one random afternoon to celebrating graduation with a senior dinner, he makes each student feel important.

What advice do you have for students who are interested in pursuing a career in this field?
For those interested in finance and business, figure out your organizational system, set boundaries, and ask questions. There are many moving parts going on at once, so it is necessary to have an organizational system that works for you. Setting boundaries for your work life is also beneficial because it can become over-consuming if you let it. It is easy to get swept up in how to complete your daily tasks, but understanding the “why” is arguably just as integral. Your new perspectives and ideas could enhance the current processes and make them more efficient, ultimately supporting the rest of your team.