Isla Olivas
Majors: International Business and Supply Chain Management
Class Year: 2024
Hometown: Fort Worth, Texas
Please tell us about your future plans once you graduate from Southern Arkansas University.
Upon Graduation, I will continue my academics by getting my master’s in business analytics back home in Texas.
How are your experiences in the Rankin College of Business preparing you for your professional career?
The Rankin College of Business has helped me prepare for my future career and life. The professors are incredibly committed to teaching RCB students and acting as mentors, role models, and advocates. Academically, the RCB has made me feel extremely prepared to enter the business world. However, beyond the curriculum, the professors and programs have helped develop me into a young adult and future businesswoman. The RCB has helped me improve my public speaking, writing, and collaboration skills. The professors also guide students in developing skills such as confidence, time management, hard work, and so much more.
What specific courses have been your favorite, and why?
Both Stats I and II have been my favorite courses throughout my time at SAU. Before taking these courses, I had a preconceived notion that math and numbers were terrible and a considerable weakness of mine. However, I soon learned the value of these numbers I was afraid to work with. These two courses sparked my interest and passion for data and analytics and even helped me realize what I wanted to do with my career. Professor Givens and her classes helped me build my confidence and realize that anyone can understand and interpret data and how vital these skills are.
Have you been involved in any of the RCB’s special programs?
In the summer of 2023, I had the opportunity to join the RCB on a trip abroad across Italy. I can truthfully say this was one of the best experiences of my life. We visited Rome, Milan, the small towns of Tuscany, and Lugano, Switzerland. We visited small businesses throughout Italy to learn about their strategies and business plans. We also experienced the Italian culture through food, churches, monuments, and traditions. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience in which I benefited both in business and life experience.
Do you have any favorite memories with Rankin College of Business faculty or fellow students?
My favorite memories would probably be from my study abroad trip. Mr. Warrick took me and a couple of students to see Lugano, Switzerland. We went on a boat ride with a breathtaking view. I also enjoyed it when the business staff and BSAC members came out to cheer us on at our volleyball game, holding giant signs with our faces.
What advice would you offer to a new student beginning their course of study at the Rankin College of Business?
I would tell future students to embrace their time at the Rankin College of Business by seizing every opportunity. I would encourage them to join connected organizations such as FBLA, BSAC, and BSAIC, as well as travel abroad groups. I would tell them to make friends with their classmates whom they usually wouldn’t have the chance to meet. You determine your time at SAU. Being involved in the RCB can offer many opportunities and benefit you in many ways. Overall, interacting with the fantastic students and staff is highly enriching.
