Finance alumna Sara Stillwell just graduated from Oregon State University’s College of Business in June, but has already transitioned into her career as a financial adviser with Pacific Capital Resource Group in Lake Oswego (in the Portland metro area), Stillwell shares her experiences and advice with current and future business students on how they can make the most of their time at Oregon State.
Did you complete an internship while attending OSU?
I did an internship with Oregon State’s Printing and Mailing Services as a marketing intern where I ran social media campaigns and promotions for the business during my sophomore year and over the summer. It was good learning experience in that it helped me determine that I did not want to pursue marketing as a career after that.
What advice would you give current and future College of Business students about how to be successful in their program and in seeking a job?
Join a club to get more information about the industry you are considering. There are many more jobs out there than people realize, especially younger students who are just getting familiar with their career options. Also, take advantage of joining a club if you choose to do so. Club officers are usually very interested in getting ideas from members and are a good resource if anyone has questions about classes to take and things to do to be successful. They’re also a great resource for networking, as they have multiple contacts within the college.
Did you utilize the services at the Career Success Center? How did they help you prepare to enter the job market?
I definitely utilized the CSC, and I’d recommend them and their services to everyone. Getting your résumé checked out is too easy not to just go and do! Also, connecting with Brandi Fuhrman, Pam Knowles and Tamara Mitchell has helped me network with so many professionals and members of the College of Business and have been a great resource and a huge help.
Did you participate in the #MySuccessIs campaign?
Yes, I was the president of the Finance Club, and we participated in a competition among the clubs. I am also a member of the Dean’s Student Leadership Council (DSLC) where we also did some brainstorming about the campaign.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
I’d want to have a photographic memory.
How would you have used your superpower while getting your degree?
It would have been amazing to only have to read slides and textbooks once while studying.
What is your favorite thing about Corvallis?
I love the closeness of everything and the ability to walk to class.
What’s your favorite thing about Oregon State?
My overall experience with the College of Business — the professors and faculty, the opportunities I had, and getting to know and collaborate with my peers — was amazing. Also, football games are my favorite things about OSU!
If you knew you were leaving Corvallis for good, where would you go for your last meal here? What would you order?
I would go to The Laughing Planet downtown and would order the Zapatista Salad. It’s my favorite!
