Following his graduation from the University of Vermont as an economics major, Marty Harrison began working as a data analyst in healthcare logistics before he returned to school to obtain a MBA from Southern Methodist University and a M.S. in economics from Boston College. “After four years of working in healthcare, I enrolled in graduate school to pivot to management consulting,” Harrison recalls, continuing on to explain how after spending years focusing on solely healthcare, he hoped to transition into consulting where he felt he could, “...explore diverse sectors of the economy, delve into various industries, and gain insights into each along the way.” After returning to school and beginning a new career in consulting, Marty eventually found his way to Riveron, where he currently works as a Manager in Business Transformation practice. At Riveron, Marty and his colleagues, “...partner with the office of the CFO, Private Equity firms, and other capital providers to elevate performance across the transaction and business cycle.” 

Like many other alumni, Harrison emphasizes the importance of networking in the job search process. In recalling his own post-graduate job search experience, Marty explains how once he narrowed his interests to economics and finance, he, “...researched entry level jobs in those fields, networked with alumni, and focused on developing a relevant skill set to excel as a practitioner in those respective disciplines.” In addition to networking, Harrison recommends undergraduates develop a “tangible, quantitative skill set”, which can offer a competitive advantage in the job search process. Thinking back on his time at UVM, Marty remembers how one of his favorite classes, econometrics, was useful in developing these types of skills. He believes the skills needed to master the statistical models used in understanding and analyzing complex data in this course are valuable in any occupation. Marty also recommends students interested in working in specific industries become accustomed with the tools companies are using to set them up for success as they enter the workforce.

Marty’s story shows the value of considering what interests you when picking a career path, and of not being afraid of change as you gain more experience.