Today, we took the StrengthsFinder test with Michael Kijowski to learn more about ourselves and how we perform best when we lean into our top five strengths. My five strengths (in order) are Futuristic, Competition, Significance, Self-Assurance, and Analytical. Before getting the official definitions, we were asked to define each strength in our own words. So here they are with my brief definitions as they relate to me:

#1: Futuristic…

“I’m always looking forward.” I rarely dwell on the past because it’s already set in stone. I can’t change what happened, so I focus on the present and future. I believe that constantly looking back only delays your ability to move forward and create solutions. The past is unchangeable, and there’s no point sulking over it.

#2: Competition…

I will win. “By any means necessary.” That quote from Malcolm X is something I’ve made the mantra of my life. It’s easy to talk a good game, but I believe in backing it up with real action. I’m driven to be the best at whatever I do, and I won’t stop until I get there.

#3: Significance…

“I want to be remembered.” Ideally, for something positive, but even if I end up being a cautionary tale, I hope it’s one that helps others. I don’t want to go through life unnoticed. I want to leave a mark, one way or another.

#4: Self-assurance…

“I’m fully confident in myself and everything I do.” I don’t second-guess my place in a room. If I’m there, it’s for a reason. I trust the path I’m on and believe every opportunity or challenge is part of something bigger.

#5: Analytical…

“Everything happens for a reason.” I don’t believe in random chance. I’m always asking why, breaking things down, and finding root causes. I analyze situations, decisions, and outcomes to understand how everything stems from even the smallest actions. The butterfly effect is real.

After we identified our strengths, we split into small groups of six to share and assign each other one of six team roles, ranging from leader to creative director. I was placed in the Devil’s Advocate because of my strengths in influencing and strategic thinking. We agreed that I don’t fold under pressure, especially in debate, thanks to my self-assurance. This exercise helped us understand what kinds of roles we’re naturally suited for and which ones might not be a great fit. It’s definitely going to help when that inevitable “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” question comes up in interviews.

In the morning, we also met with Rebecca Rhoades, who walked us through the different co-curricular programs offered at Pitt Business. These programs significantly improve employment outcomes and starting salaries after graduation. It’s clear that participating in them gives you a real edge in their targeted industries. I’ll definitely look deeper into the Co-Curricular Programs (especially the Digital Marketing Institute, Sports Business Academy, and the Music and Entertainment Academy). We wrapped that session with a tour of the School of Business, where we saw classrooms, faculty offices, and even one of the sets of on-campus Bloomberg terminals.

We also had lunch with Kathleen Foody-Malus. She’s an Executive-in-Residence at Pitt with over 30 years of experience in financial services and investments, including a decade managing mortgage-backed securities at Freddie Mac. Her insights were sharp and direct, which I really appreciated. She told us flat out, “I’ll let you know if [a résumé] will fail.” I learn best from mentors like her, the kind people call “direct” and “hardcore.” I’m looking forward to more sessions with her. Also, her fashion sense was top-tier.

Overall, today was a great mix of self-discovery, career insight, and guidance.