Hello! I’m Jackson Kelley, a rising junior at the University of Pittsburgh who is studying finance and economics in the University of Pittsburghs dual degree program. I was born and raised in Northern Virginia, where I developed a strong sense of belonging and a great love for spending time with loved ones. I always look forward to hanging out with my two brothers and playing golf with my friends when I get home from college.
I’ve had the chance to participate in leadership, career development, and academics at Pitt. I’ve been able to combine economic frameworks with the useful financial tools required to address real-world issues by attending both the College of Business Administration and the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences. This dual-degree program has improved my ability to think critically and expanded my knowledge of the connections between finance and economics. I have strong interest in breaking into the world of consulting and helping companies handle economic and financial problems. I plan to get my MBA after undergrad and the pursue a career in economic consulting. I have a large passion for learning and that is why I am hoping to continuing school after my undergrad.
I have developed a network of like-minded people who are enthusiastic about business and professional development through my active participation in Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity, outside of the classroom. I’ve pushed myself to advance both professionally and personally through DSP by attending workshops, networking events, and even taking on leadership roles. In addition, I work directly with non-profit clients to create strategic solutions to enhance operations as a consultant and Vice President of Alumni Relations for the University of Pittsburgh’s Incline Consulting Group, a student-run pro-bono consulting firm. I have been able to apply what I have learned in the classroom to actual consulting projects and hone my client-facing skills thanks to this immensely fulfilling experience. At Pitt I also work for the University of Pittsburgh’s recreation department officiating intramural sports on week nights where I referee basketball and soccer.
This summer, I’m incredibly excited to be spending two months in Dublin, Ireland, for a financial administrative internship with Casey Kennedy Estates, a real estate firm based a little outside the city. This opportunity blends two areas I’m passionate about finance and real estate and I’m looking forward to learning more about how real estate markets function in Europe. I am hoping that working abroad also will give me the chance to gain insight into international business culture, develop adaptability, and build a more global perspective on the financial industry.
It’s a giant leap for me, both professionally and personally, to live andwork outside the country. While I’ve always loved to travel, I never had the opportunity to live outside the country for so many years until today. I am confident that my future reaction to opportunities and challenges will be informed by having lived in Dublin, learning local business practices, and being exposed to a different culture. I anticipateworking with people of different backgrounds, implementing new concepts, and establishing cross-border relationships. This is my first professional internship, and I am excited to acquire organizational and technical skills that will make me prosper in the workplace.
I see this summer as an opportunity for personal development. Being in a new city and stepping outside of my comfort zone forces me to become more independent and resourceful. Learning how to adapt to a new way of life, form connections with people from diverse backgrounds, and accept fresh challenges with an open mind are more important than simply finding a job. Every day offers a chance to develop, whether it’s learning how public transit operates, exploring new areas, or trying local food.
When I return to Pitt in the fall, I’m sure I’ll bring more than just experience boosting my resume. I’ll bring a stronger sense of confidence, an international perspective, and a professional understanding with me. I can’t wait to apply what I’ve learned abroad to my future leadership roles, student organizations, and coursework. This experience will also impact my decisions about summer internships after my junior year, graduate school, and eventually full-time jobs in finance or economics.
Ultimately, my goal is to continue building a career where I can help individuals and organizations make smart financial decisions that align with their goals. I am so excited for these next 2 months and ready to experience so many new things in such a short time. I am proud to represent Pitt in these next few months as well and be around my other Pitt students while I am here.