On February 8, Mackenzie Britt, (BS Mathematics `20, MS Business Analytics `21), spoke to mathematics students at the UGA Department of Mathematics’ Industrial Mathematics Day.
Britt, currently a senior business analyst at Capgemini in Austin, Texas, specializes in business-to-business commerce. Prior to Capgemini, she worked at Ad Victoriam Solutions and was a part of the Elevate Program. At Ad Victoriam Solutions, she was promoted three times within a year and a half.
“At the time, Ad Victoriam was a start-up – I was hire number 85,” said Britt. “I was able to learn a lot through this company and wore many different hats during my time.”
Many students who attended the annual event are actively seeking internships and opportunities to learn more about what they can do with their mathematics degrees post-graduation. In addition to Britt, the event featured alumni speakers from State Farm Insurance, FTI Consulting and Azalea Robotics as well as a mock interview session and panel discussion about finding a job.
Britt’s top piece of advice to students is to “Network, network, network,” she said. “It is super important to keep up with people whether it’s on LinkedIn or through email or text.”
Britt also emphasized the importance of advocating for yourself to reduce burnout. Additionally, she recommended students obtain a part-time job in college to learn useful skills such as communications, interpersonal skills, teamwork, leadership, time management and more.
“I worked as a community assistant for an apartment complex during college and the day-to-day lessons I learned have served me well throughout my career – especially early on,” continued Britt.
While at UGA, Britt played the trombone in the Redcoat Marching Bad, was a part of Kappa Kappa Psi and had the opportunity to study abroad in Cortona.
Students commented that it’s great to have successful alumni come back to campus to share their experiences and advice. They were also excited to learn that there are a lot of options for math degrees in the workforce post-graduation.
Image: Participants at Industrial Mathematics Day