How Rutgers Business School Empowers First-Generation Students to Excel in Consulting Careers

Kevin Soza: A Journey of Triumph from First-Gen Student to Consulting Analyst

Kevin Soza’s professional journey is a true testament to the empowering impact of education on first-generation college students. From a very young age, Kevin was exposed to opportunities that would shape his future. Enrolled in a pre-college program at Rutgers University when he was just five years old, Kevin’s path was set early on. Years later, he would find himself on the brink of a new chapter, set to join Accenture as a consulting analyst shortly after graduating.

As a finance major at Rutgers Business School in Newark, Kevin’s acceptance of an offer from Accenture marks a significant milestone in his career. He credits the foundational lessons and invaluable connections he made during his time at Rutgers for this achievement. Organizations like the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) were instrumental in introducing him to the skills necessary to succeed in the professional world. There, he learned the essentials of networking, resume building, and forging connections with seasoned professionals.

Rutgers' Road to Consulting program was another incredible opportunity for Kevin. This selective initiative is tailored specifically for sophomores and juniors aspiring to break into the consulting sector. It prepares students by honing soft skills, providing interview training, and facilitating networking opportunities with industry experts. Kevin reflected on this experience, stating, "Road to Consulting helped me think like a consultant. I was exposed to firms like PwC, Accenture, EY, and McKinsey. More crucially, I connected with a management consultant at Accenture who became a valuable mentor, guiding me toward my internship and my eventual job offer."

Rutgers Business School leads the charge in creating innovative programs that maximize student career opportunities. Their offerings, including the Road to Wall Street, Road to Silicon Valley, and Road to Supply Chain Leadership, equip students with the knowledge, skills, and mentorship necessary to ascend the socioeconomic ladder. Kevin highlighted the strategic advantages of choosing Rutgers, particularly for those who wish to remain in New Jersey or pursue opportunities in New York City.

Kevin's passion for consulting aligns perfectly with the fast-paced learning it offers. His experiences have taught him that the consulting field provides a whirlwind of knowledge and growth opportunities. "You're staffed on different projects, learn rapidly, and by taking initiative, you develop an entrepreneurial mindset by identifying ways to add value to clients," he explained.

Kevin's drive is deeply rooted in family values. With parents who immigrated from Honduras and cultivated a life in Newark, he understands the significance of hard work and an education as transformative tools. His mother, who instilled in him the importance of education, played a pivotal role in his early development. Kevin reminisced about the times he spent with a finance executive that his mother cleaned for, where he was introduced to finance through discussions and relevant literature like The Wall Street Journal. This experience sparked his passion and curiosity about the finance world and its complexities, shaping his educational focus.

As the eldest of four and a first-generation college student, Kevin emphasized his commitment to enhancing financial literacy within his family. He aspires to educate his loved ones about financial management and stability. Moreover, he envisions extending this influence beyond his family. "Being a Newark resident, I want to give back to the same nonprofit organizations that supported me throughout my life. It’s only just that I extend the same help I received," he shared.

This philanthropic spirit is further evident in his involvement with the Honors Living-Learning Community (HLLC) at Rutgers University-Newark. This program nurtures students by integrating academic growth with community impact. Here, Kevin developed skills in leadership and social equity, elevating his commitment to being a positive change agent in society. His journey is also characterized by a desire to mentor others, as he steps into the role of a peer advisor in the Office of Career Management at Rutgers, helping guide students on their paths.

As he moves forward, Kevin aims to embody the lessons learned throughout his Rutgers experience—"Closed mouths don’t get fed," he often tells those he mentors. The guiding principle is an acknowledgment of the importance of communication and seizing opportunities, alongside the notion of navigating challenges with a positive mindset.

In summary, Kevin Soza's story encapsulates the power of education and mentorship. His journey from the Rutgers pre-college program to an exciting new role at Accenture serves as an inspiring example for many, particularly fellow first-generation college students. With continued passion and dedication to both his family and the Newark community, there's no doubt that his career will be marked by success and a commitment to giving back.