Finding the Courage to Try: Students Get Career Advice from KKR Volunteers
What kinds of educational and work experiences are needed to enter a top global investment firm? Tenth-grade students from The Young Women’s Leadership Schools (TYWLS) visited KKR to find out! As part of our TYWLS at the Workplace career awareness program, students got a behind-the-scenes look at the range of experiences and roles needed to effectively run a global company.
Advice for Success at a Global Investment Company
Visits to companies like KKR help our students make connections between the skills they are developing in school and real-world jobs and career paths. Students heard from KKR employees about a variety of roles in investment, client relations, and private equity.
The KKR team emphasized that, beyond technical skills, students will benefit from speaking up with their ideas and making connections with people. “When you start a new job, it’s like starting at a new school,” said Maddie from KKR. “Asking ‘Can I join your lunch table’ led to meeting great friends and expanding my network. All of the lessons we learn along the way are applicable to work.” Her colleague Carter added, “There’s always something you can learn from somebody. There’s an unlimited number of mentors you can have.”
During a panel discussion, KKR team members shared personal stories to illustrate how they’ve had to pivot or adjust their expectations about what success looks like. Life changes led to some volunteers taking time off from college and work. They spoke about learning how to get back on track and finding new direction when they least expected it, encouraging students to be as adaptable as possible. They also showed that developing confidence and the courage to try new things will go a long way. Azusa reflected, “I realized that I need to find my own specialty that makes me stand out. As a kid, I was ashamed of my identity, but now looking back, it’s such a benefit to be different. Embrace your difference – it’s a good thing.” Our students appreciated the practical advice, which could be applied to their school settings and to their future aspirations.
Exploring Entrepreneurship with a Shark Tank Pitch Activity
In addition to the panel, students joined small groups for more intimate discussions with employees, allowing for personalized questions and connections. Students also explored entrepreneurship funding through a Shark Tank-style pitch activity with KKR volunteers from the Private Equity and Client Solutions team acting as judges.
One of the highlights of the day was when volunteers led an office tour to show the reality of day-to-day life at the firm.
“I loved the office and I loved seeing the employees all eating lunch together,” said one of the student participants. “It was such a warm atmosphere, I want to work here.”
Thank you to the entire KKR team for hosting our students and providing such an engaging experience! These workplace visits create lasting impressions that help our students envision diverse professional futures.
If you’d like to bring the TYWLS at the Workplace program to your company, please contact Matthew Chacko at mchacko@studentleadershipnetwork.org.
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