Professional Selling Board ’20
Austin Barron '20
University Corporate Recruiter - Goosehead Insurance
Dallas, TX
austinbarronn@gmail.com
Sales Club Member
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
Sales Leadership Institute taught me so many things. However, I would say the most valuable thing I learned while in SLI is that it taught me to get out of my comfort zone and participate/try things I never would have done. Because of this, I was able to grow as a person individually and professionally. I can say without a doubt in my mind that SLI set me up for my future.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
Goosehead is a place for students that want to be the best at what they do. It is a place for students that want to be surrounded by winners with high expectations that are motivated by failure instead of being shut down by it. There is an unlimited amount of earning potential with the opportunity to grow as fast as you can imagine as long as hard work and effort is there.
Tifanie Brannon '20
District Manager - Aldi
Houston, TX
brannontifanie@gmail.com
My name is Tifanie Brannon. I am a District Manager at ALDI in Houston, TX. I oversee the operations of six locations in the Greater Houston Area. Although I am not a sales role, the Sales Leadership Institute provided me with so many skills that I use in my day to day career. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!
Sales Club Treasurer
Tifanie is a District Manager at Aldi in Houston, Texas. She says that the Sales Leadership Institute taught her skills that will aid her in all roles moving forward. You are always selling yourself or a “product” in some capacity. Some advice she gives to students is to get involved in a leadership role! It doesn’t have to be in Sales Club or even in Mays, but find a way to be a leader on campus.
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
Although I’m not starting my career in Sales as originally planned, the Sales Leadership Institute and Sales Club taught me skills that will aid me in all roles moving forward. You are always selling yourself or a “product” in some capacity and will need these skills to do so. My ability to be successful in my role post-graduation is largely due to the networking and sales experience gained from my participation in Sales Club.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
Get involved in a leadership role! It doesn’t have to be in Sales Club or even in Mays, but find a way to be a leader on campus and I promise the experiences you gain will be valuable to you for the rest of your career.
Daniel Calabrese '20
Customer Service Representative - Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories
Reading, England
dcalabrese1998@gmail.com
Sewell Scholar
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
Being part of SLI gave me an unparalleled perspective on what a career in sales truly looks like and prepared me to be successful from the beginning. Furthermore, it gave me access to network with sales professionals and recruiters in many different industries which at the same time allowed me to learn which type of sales would suit me better.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
Take advantage of all the opportunities SLI has to offer. They truly make a difference when it comes to jumpstarting your career. Also, be ready to be challenged and know there will be times when you will face hardships or fail; however, always learn from hardships and failures and get back up quickly.
Luke Garwood '20
Account Specialist: Sam's Club Cat 2, 3, 41, 54, 78 - McLane Company
Bentonville, AR
lukegarwood12@gmail.com
Sales Club Member; Sewell Scholar; Sales Team Member
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
I met McLane at the 2018 Sales Speed Networking Event. From there, I did a summer sales internship, was offered a Fall and Spring Internship to recruit, and accepted a full-time Account Specialist position in Bentonville, AR. Through the SLI, I gained countless professional skills like resume design, interview prep, professional selling, elevator pitching, sales management, and networking skills. This organization inspired me to learn more about career opportunities in a wide range of industries. They provided me with excellent resources, experiences, and instruction to develop my own skill set and career goals. I am very thankful for everyone involved who helped me in any capacity to get to where I am today.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
Make sure your values truly align with McLane's Core Values. Research about the company, industry, and opportunities before approaching a recruiter. You must be flexible, not afraid to fail, and get things done. McLane is very customer-focused, so be ready to go above and beyond to help a customer.
Brittany Gentry '20
Full service wardrobe consultant - Tom James Company
Houston, TX
b.gentry@tomjames.com
Sales Club Member; Sales Team Member
I am a full service wardrobe consultant serving Houston and its surrounding areas. I help people ensure they’re properly attired for all occasions to help them look and feel their best while building impactful relationships along the way.
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
The Sales Leadership Institute aided in starting my career by giving me the opportunity to participate in role plays, career fair prep, most importantly I learned a lot about myself within my strengths, which prepared me for an interview setting. Thanks to SLI I learned to effectively network, and build meaningful connections!
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
The advice I would give to students is that business is personal. Be willing to give in relationships happily, whether it’s your time, a favor, or information relevant to the success of their business. Time is the most valuable thing you have, don't take it for granted. While you can, take full advantage of every opportunity, event, or meeting SLI offers, and make the connections. Do not limit yourself to a certain industry or job title rather think about who you want to surround yourself with. That is how I knew I wanted to sign at Tom James Company. After hearing a sales rep at Tom James, Sterling, give a presentation during one of my courses in junior year, I immediately knew I wanted to work alongside her. It was not that I was just sold on the company, but rather the people. If you are interested in Tom James, please reach out!! I'd love to talk.
Kendall Kaigler '20
Director of Business Development - Hail Alert Technologies
Dallas, TX
kendallkaigler@gmail.com
After my time as the Director of Business Development for Hail Alert Technologies LLC, I accepted a role as the Young Adults Coordinator for The Porch at Watermark Community Church. The Porch is a young adults ministry that reaches thousands of young adults at a weekly gathering in Dallas, TX and millions across the nation. In this role, I oversee, train, and deploy a team of 200 young adult leaders as they give their time and talents away to ministry. Skills from my time in sales such as recruiting, problem solving, and strategic communication have set me up well to develop leaders in my current role.
2019 Texas A&M Collegiate Sales Competition Winner
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
The Sales Leadership Institute (specifically sales class with Dr. Parish and Professor Loring) was hugely impactful in finding a career I was passionate about and wanted to pursue. I went from being vaguely interested in marketing to completely confident that a career in sales was the right fit for me. The Sales Leadership Institute approaches sales with integrity and a heart of service but prioritizes hard work and competition in a healthy manner. Through this program, I learned how to genuinely care for clients while successfully closing contracts and improving my personal skills. Specifically, success in the sales competition had an enormous impact on my confidence but also afforded me the chance to test out everything I had been learning in class. It provided so many career opportunities and highlighted the areas that I could continue to work on. Through counsel from my professors, I was able to figure out what kind of company I wanted to work for and the values that would make going into work meaningful.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
Take risks! Enter the sales competition; go to speed networking; try to get a perfect score on a role play! Repetition in these areas is the only way to refine your skill set and will be so attractive to potential employers. It requires you to put yourself out there but will pay off in enormous ways in your personal development. -Take time processing your specific skill set and what you “bring to the table” with your professors! Use the Gallup Strength Finder or any other test to aid you in understanding both your strengths and areas you could improve in. It is such an asset to be able to walk into an interview and clearly articulate your strengths. -Seek out your professor’s wisdom! They truly know what they are talking about and are committed to fitting you with the best company possible. Their advice and career insight is invaluable in the recruiting process.
Kirby Matocha '20
Small Business Consultant - Kirby Matocha
Houston, TX
kirby.matocha@gmail.com
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
The Sales Leadership Institute provided me with a foundation for my sales career. The combination of networking, experience and training goes towards a professional selling distinction and the student’s professional confidence. Dr. Parish spoke to student-athletes at a Student-Athlete Advisory Committee meeting and sold me on the concept immediately (I actually ran after her for more information). As a non-business major, I was looking to get involved in something to further my professional development. Since then, I secured a pharmaceutical sales internship in the summer of 2019 and recently accepted full-time employment with Unum as a Sales Trainee. The Sales Leadership Institute was something recruiters brought up during each conversation at a mixer, speed networking, or interview. It was apparent that hiring managers appreciate college students actively pursuing their professional development and they were impressed with our skillset. What I appreciated most about the Sales Leadership Institute was the mentorship. Dr. Parish and Professor Andrew Loring want students to do well and it is apparent in their timely responses and willingness to help. Professor Loring not only helped me prep for my final interviews but helped me read through my full-time offer contract before signing. I am grateful for my time with the Sales Leadership Institute and look forward to giving back.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
My advice to anyone interested in a sales career is to show up to the sales career fairs and networking opportunities! I found that making a good first impression is important, but following up is essential in the recruiting process. Sales is competitive and you should view the recruiting process in the same light. Unum is an insurance company specializing in disability, life, and financial protection. What attracted me to Unum originally was the sales component, insurance (helping people and wellness-centered), the ability to make a competitive salary ($), and the recruiter. The recruiter was transparent with me and willing to give me professional advice when I met her in my sophomore year. To this day, my hiring managers have been transparent and the company has exceptional communication. In fact, my hiring managers have checked in with me throughout the COVID 19 crisis. It’s refreshing to know Unum takes care of their own. In summary, make sure the company is the right fit for you! If you think Unum checks your boxes, reach out!
Austin Pegues '20
Financial Technology Advisor - HighRadius
Houston, TX
austin71498@gmail.com
Sales Club Philanthropy Officer
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
The SLI gave me internship opportunities and later a full-time opportunity.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
Work hard and take sales classes seriously because they focus on what the industry is really like!
Scott Richards '20
Financial Technology Adviser - HighRadius
Houston, TX
srichards027@gmail.com
My name is Scott Richards, Class of 2020. Former Sales Club VP, graduated with a marketing degree with emphasis in sales. I started my career at a fast growing tech company doing inside sales, and after a year and a half, transitioned to a role as an account executive for a small manufacturing company. I have been at Clarity since April 2022, and love the small business life. Currently based in Houston, TX.
2019-2020 Sales Cup Champion; Sales Club Vice President; Sales Team Member
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
The Sales Leadership Institute gave me a platform to lead, as well as grow my sales skills and network with a wide variety of companies. Without the Sales Leadership Institute, I would have never found my internship or my first career job.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
To rising seniors, I would say don't be afraid to put yourself out there. Go after any opportunity that you might be remotely interested in. You never know where it might take you. Take advantage of all connections you have, and use that Aggie Network!
Juliana Rudisel '20
Small Business Advisor - Dell
Round Rock, TX
julirudisel@aggienetwork.com
Sales Club Member
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
Helped me develop my skills, + speed networking is where I met the man who hired me at Dell!
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
If you are interested in Dell- apply! They are a great company, especially for recent grads. If you are graduating soon and don't have a job yet- don't freak out, you aren't alone. Do more than just apply, reach out to people on LinkedIn, make real connections with people, email someone you met at an externship, or maybe a guest speaker from either class or a club. Don't be scared to introduce yourself to people! TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR RESOURCES AT TAMU! Get with the career center/professors. They are there to help YOU!
Morgan Turner '20
Agent Development Specialist - Iscential Insurance
Houston, TX
morgandacus@yahoo.com
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
The Sales Leadership Institute has given me amazing opportunities to network with companies, get out of my comfort zone, and participate in the Texas A&M Sales Competition. This has helped me become more confident and relaxed when attending speed networking, career fairs, and interviews. I have grown so much through SLI, and will continue to grow in my professional career.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
Stay out of your comfort zone! Go to all of the networking events and meet with recruiters. Networking with individuals and forming new connections will help you in your future career. Participate in the Sales Competition and gain as much experience as possible. SLI has so many amazing opportunities to help you, so take advantage of them so that you can grow personally and professionally.
Audrey Valk '20
PDP - Pegasus Logistics Group
Coppell, TX
amvalk98@gmail.com
Sales Club President; Sales Team Member
Recent college graduate diving into the logistics industry! Continuously pushing myself to learn more about Pegasus as a company and where in the market we thrive. In addition to learning about trends and key players in the industry. Through all of this, I am working on developing my networking and messaging skills within sales so that I can easily apply them when I am finished with the PDP program!
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
I have learned so much through this organization. Comfort in speaking with professionals, etiquette through emails, phone calls, and interviews, networking with other students, experience in background research, sales processes - and so much more. I wouldn't have had the jump start I did and comfort in communicating without participating in events. I also would not have a job or learn how to stand out without the club.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
Network! Professionals want to speak with you and in sales, it is extremely impressive when you take initiative and reach out. I sent messages to numerous employees at Pegasus throughout interviews and it made an impact. The VP of sales in the company told me I had a yes from him before even speaking since I messaged him. Also, just be yourself. You want to be a good fit on both ends and professionals are humans too. Just have a conversation and be honest about your experiences and what you have learned.
Gabrielah Womack Mabbun '20
Dell Technologies - Small Business Advisor
Austin, TX
Gabrielahmw@mabbun.com
HOW DID THE SALES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE AID IN STARTING YOUR CAREER?
The Sales Leadership Institute allowed me to understand exactly what a career in sales looks like through networking events. By being involved in the institute, I was able to hear advice from other sales professionals by learning about some of their strengths and weaknesses in sales. As an active member of the Sales Club, I had the pleasure of attending multiple Dell Technologies networking events which allowed me to learn more about the company as a whole! Before joining Sales Club and earning my Distinction in Sales through the Sales Leadership Institute, I would not have learned about my passion for sales!
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE STUDENTS THAT ARE GRADUATING SOON OR ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR COMPANY?
Do your research! I would highly recommend students to do their research and understand why this company is a great fit. Find something you love about the company that you would be proud of representing. For example, do you love the company culture or values? Also, take advantage of the networking events that the Sales Leadership Institute provides to learn more!