Over a decade ago, I decided to join Syracuse University’s Martin J. Whitman School of Management and graduated Class of 2014. I can say, without a doubt, it was the best decision that I made. Looking back at it now, I can confidently say Whitman prepared me academically and helped me become the woman I am today.
Originally joining Whitman as a finance major, I decided to switch to retail management after falling in love with Retail 301. While the decision didn’t come lightly, I was always raised not to fear change and adapt quickly. Amanda Nicholson, my retail professor at the time, was a strong woman who inspired me to make this decision, and I will be forever thankful. She is brilliant and caring, but most importantly, she encouraged me to trust myself and follow my dreams.
My four years at Whitman prepared me for what was ahead. Due to the program’s wide range of offerings, I had the skill set to work in buying, supply chain and demand planning. While in those positions, I always catch myself assisting in many other areas such as marketing, commercial and even finance, alluding back to my original plan. Not only switching positions, but I have also moved within Brazil to São Paulo to work for Estee Lauder, and now back to Rio de Janeiro, not being afraid of change and following my intuition. My daily life takes me back to lessons learned while attending classes, thought processes built-in discussions with classmates, and the courage to make decisions even if they scare me.
To escape the tough times that we are facing, I find myself looking back at my time in Syracuse and reliving those moments that are so dear to me. I’m forever thankful to the Syracuse community, looking forward to what’s to come and so proud to bleed Orange all the way in Brazil.
- Alumni of the Week: Rebecca Barreto ’14 - February 4, 2021