Miranda Pena ’23
What do you enjoy about project management?
It’s all about doing things better and more efficiently. There are so many things that we do on a daily basis that have a formal project management process; it’s been so cool to learn that. PM classes are literally my favorite.
How did you choose your major?
I was looking to find what combination of things could help me work in the nonprofit sector. I organized lots of fundraisers back home, and when I took my first project management class, I realized everything I’ve been doing to run those is actually a career. It’s something I love and have been doing all along.
How would you describe the Bryant community?
I really love the teaching education system here. The teachers know you, and it’s so easy to get help and get to know people. I thought I wanted a huge school, but it’s nice to see familiar faces every day. Even then, you still get to know new people all the time.
How has Bryant prepared you for the future?
I got an internship by asking faculty for connections to nonprofits, since that’s where I’ve always wanted to work. I started in the fall at Skills for Rhode Island’s Future, working in the disability program to help train people for jobs. They offered me a full-time position after graduation as a junior operations project manager. I’ll be working with high school students, to connect them to internships and run them through a boot camp to get them ready.
What advice would you give to incoming international students?
Going to my professor and asking, “Do you have any connections?” is what led to the most opportunities for me. Networking has been my lifesaver.
A Connected Community
Bryant's purposeful student life delivers co-curricular immersion with an inspiring, collegial community. Students forge deep connections that last a lifetime.
“We’re top ranked in business, top ranked in athletics, and in the top 1% for ROI, but we’re also so much more. Sometimes people call Bryant a hidden gem. I think it should be recognized as the gold standard for higher education.”
“My specialization is a STEM program, which allows me to extend my work after graduating. This is nice for international students looking to gain work experience in the U.S. Bryant’s focus on STEM programs is really beneficial for international students.”
“The professors have been very helpful. If there’s anything that you don’t know in terms of advanced actuarial math, they will be there for you. If you come in with an open mind and motivation to get into the field — and you have a base level of knowledge — this will be a fantastic program for you.”