Brianna Baliat from the Kessler Scholars at the University of Michigan reflects on building confidence and exploring career paths
Brianna Baliat was a Kessler Scholar at the University of Michigan, the founding institution for the Kessler Scholars Program.
What does the Kessler Scholars Program mean to you?
The Kessler Scholars Program has been nothing short of transformative for me during my undergraduate years at the University of Michigan. This program has been a major source of community and provided me with a space where I could be vulnerable and share my experiences without fear of judgment. As a first-generation student, navigating university life often felt daunting and heavy at times, but I found solace in sharing my journey with my peers in the program who understood the unique hurdles that first-generation students face. Moreover, the Kessler Scholars Program has been instrumental in propelling me into leadership roles that have allowed me to give back to my community and uplift my peers. Through this program, I have been presented with many opportunities for personal and professional development, acquiring skills that will continue to benefit me in all areas of life. It’s been a catalyst for growth and a testament to the power of vulnerability and community.
Have you participated in any experiential opportunities during college, and if so, what was your experience?
I had the opportunity to intern at the Estee Lauder Companies in New York City. I interned with their IT department, working as a software developer and project manager. This internship initially felt daunting, and I struggled with imposter syndrome. Yet as I navigated this experience, I found myself pushed out of my comfort zone and encouraged to grow by my teammates. My experience as an intern also provided me with an understanding of how to advocate for myself in a male-dominated [division]. I met several colleagues who were first-generation students as well, and we discussed how our identity as first-generation students impacts us beyond college. This internship experience not only provided valuable professional development but also empowered me on a personal level by reinforcing my confidence in my capability and resilience.
What are you looking forward to doing personally or professionally after graduation?
After graduation, I am looking forward to working with Alfa Financial Software as an implementation analyst. I will get the opportunity to further explore career roles that interest me, like software development, project management, and consulting. I am excited to continue developing my professional and leadership skills through this position. On a personal level, I am looking forward to having more free time to learn about myself and further expand my interests and hobbies after graduation!
What advice do you have for future Kessler Scholars?
If I could give one piece of advice to future Kessler Scholars, it would be to embrace opportunities and take chances on yourself, regardless of their scale. I know that it can feel intimidating to be in college as a first-generation student, which can make pursuing opportunities discouraging. However, it’s important to recognize that you belong in these spaces and you deserve to invest in yourself. By taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone, you build confidence in your abilities and open doors to unforeseen possibilities. Even if it doesn’t turn out as anticipated, every experience offers valuable lessons and insights.
Read more about the Class of 2024 and the impact of the Kessler Scholars Program, or connect with us at info@KesslerScholars.org.