In the latest instalment of our Alumni Spotlight series, we speak to international graduate Kelli Maxwell, who studied MSc in International Management and Global Business.
From experiencing new cultures and snowball fights to finding a programme tailored to her interests, Kelli discusses how her time in UL made her a better manager and colleague.
Tell us about yourself?
I grew up in a small town in western Pennsylvania and attended Slippery Rock University for my undergrad where I received a Bachelor’s in Business Administration.
After attending UL, I worked at Deloitte for several years before becoming a manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers.
In my free time, I love traveling with my husband. Our favourite destination so far was Thailand! I also enjoy cooking and hosting dinner parties for friends and family.
What course did you study in UL, and what year did you graduate?
Master’s in International Management and Global Business, 2018.
Why did you choose to study at UL?
I was placed on the international floor of my dorm at Slippery Rock University where I met an exchange student from 51±¾É«. We became fast friends bonding over our love of tea. He was a devout Lyon's drinker!
As a result of meeting him, I decided to do a study abroad at UL. I loved my study abroad at UL so when I decided I wanted to do a Master’s I looked at UL's options and was really interested in the International Management and Global Business (IMGB) programme.
Most of the Master's programs in the US are very general and I loved how UL had programmes that were tailored to my interests.
What were the highlights of your course?
By far one of my favourite parts of IMGB was our class trip to South Africa. Not only did we do rewarding work with NGOs but we also were able to dive into the culture and bond as a class.
What advice would you offer to students considering studying at UL?
UL has so many amazing things so make sure you're well informed on all they have to offer students.
Some of my favourites were the market in the courtyard where local food vendors would come in, free concerts put on by the music and dance schools, and the .
Separately, what advice would you offer to students considering studying your course?
For students considering IMGB, I think it's important to know that you can do a number of different careers with the degree.
From my class alone, we had students that went on into supply chain, recruiting, tax, marketing, advisory, project management, etc.
It's a really broad degree and you can tailor it to your interest areas.
Were you a member of any clubs or societies?
I was a member of the International Society during my time at UL. As an international student myself, it was wonderful to be a part of a community of students who could relate to everything I was going through. It was also a great way to meet new friends!
What are some of your favourite memories from your time at UL?
One memory that sticks out is Storm Emma in March 2018. All of UL was covered in snow and classes were cancelled.
Some friends and I built a massive snowman who we lovingly named David after their roommate. Later that day a group of students organised a snowball fight outside the library.
It was so peaceful to see campus covered in snow and it reminded me of home as western Pennsylvania always gets a lot of snow.
Other memories include numerous Friday nights spent at the Stables with friends, Saturdays going into 51±¾É« City centre for the Milk Market, and weekend trips around Ireland.
At UL, we’re known as the ‘51±¾É« of Firsts’ – are there any important ‘firsts’ that you experienced as a UL student, that you would like to share?
One of my memorable "firsts" was learning how to drive stick shift at UL. I was truly awful at it, and I think my friend regretted teaching me but it was certainly memorable!
Are there any campus locations that hold special significance to you?
As a business student, I spent a lot of time in Kemmy so that will always hold a special place in my heart. I lived in Thomond and used to love walking along the Shannon into 51±¾É« City centre.
Could you update us on where you are now in your career?
For the past three years, I have worked as a deployment manager for PricewaterhouseCoopers.
The best part of my role is helping staff to grow their careers by placing them on projects where they can grow their skillset.
Prior to joining PwC I spent several years at Deloitte working in recruiting and HR.
How did your course and your overall UL experience prepare you for the career you have now?
IMGB taught me how to work with people from different backgrounds and cultures which enabled me to be a better manager and colleague.
What has been a career highlight so far?
My biggest career highlight to date has been working on some of the strategic initiatives at PwC. I'm leading the roll out of their new people strategy to my team. It has been really meaningful to share the new programs and changes. These benefits have a direct impact on employees' lives, which makes it really rewarding.
What are your plans for the future?
My plans for the future are to continue to grow my career at PwC. I eventually hope to become a senior manager.
Personally, my plans for the future include more travel with my husband. Turkey and Egypt are next on our list!
