-: I studied chemical engineering.
However, any engineering degree that's technical
would get someone into this role.
I knew coming into NJIT that I loved food,
and my path led me to different companies such as
Clorox, Hormel Foods, Pepsi, General Mills,
and then I got involved into packaging at Sonoco Products.
I would say be very proactive.
So I remember being in clubs that weren't
the popular clubs in school,
and that's what landed me my first internship.
I would definitely say reach out.
I was so anxious to get my first internship,
my first opportunity.
I was calling, I was Googling companies around Newark,
because it's higher industrial, highly populated,
and I got to tour a flavoring plant
that's many a mile away from NJIT,
just because, hey, I'm just willing to just learn,
or can I see the plant?
I just want to be exposed to stuff.
So the willingness and dedication to really
just seeking what's out there,
not just waiting for something to be handed to you
or waiting for the career fair.
Be proactive and try to venture out on your own.
Interpersonal skills.
You're dealing with a variety of people,
whether it's communicating bad news to a customer
or even you know, celebrating something.
I think being able to have
that interpersonal relationships is important,
because it makes working with people easier,
and it makes other people respect you.
So, really understanding what people's motivations are
behind the things that they do,
and being able to cater to that.
Knowing that, you know, not every day
is going to be a good day,
but with being a manager, you have to make it one,
so that everyone else doesn't see you sweat,
doesn't see you, you know, frustrated,
'cause it impacts their perception of you.