Campus Spotlight: Ivana Pjetri
How Active Listening and Emotional Intelligence Can Turn Any Challenge Into a Learning Opportunity
Ivana Pjetri is a Senior Specialist in Alvarez & Marsal’s (A&M) Human Resources (HR) Business Partners team in New York, New York. She earned her bachelor’s degree in economics from Binghamton University.
In the following Q&A, Ivana shares the importance of adaptability, resilience and networking. She discusses her internship experience, the supportive culture at the New York office and her significant career accomplishments. She also highlights the invaluable mentorship she received, offers advice for recent graduates and shares her passion for soccer and the inspiring impact of the Throne of Glass series.
Reflecting on your college experience, what unexpected lessons or insights have you gained that have significantly impacted your career?
I unexpectedly learned the importance of adaptability and resilience. Facing challenges and setbacks taught me to embrace change, learn from failures and remain flexible. These lessons have been invaluable in my career, enabling me to navigate uncertainty, innovate and seize growth opportunities.
Why did you choose to intern at A&M?
I began my internship in January 2019, collaborating with the United Kingdom Human Resources (HR) team. As my internship ended, I was invited to return during the summer to contribute to projects within the United States HR team. I chose to continue my involvement due to my admiration for the team and the meaningful nature of the work.
What motivated your decision to join A&M full-time?
By the time I graduated college, I had been interning with A&M for two years, so the decision was easy. I felt a deep sense of comfort and familiarity with the team, coupled with genuine enjoyment of the work I was doing and would be doing.
Which office are you based in, and how would you describe the office culture?
I am in the New York office. The culture is excellent! Our HR team is spread out over the New York, Tampa and Chicago offices, so it’s great to collaborate and spend time together when the whole team is in New York.
Tips to Navigate and Overcome Early Career Challenges
Reflecting on your career's early stages, what unexpected challenges did you encounter, and how did you navigate them to emerge stronger?
In the early stages of my career, unexpected challenges included balancing assertiveness with collaboration and dealing with failure. To navigate these challenges, I focused on developing emotional intelligence, listening actively and offering contributions respectfully. I also embraced setbacks as learning opportunities, seeking feedback, analyzing failures and adopting a growth mindset. These experiences strengthened my communication skills, resilience and confidence, preparing me to overcome future obstacles in my career.
Share a significant accomplishment from your career.
My most significant accomplishment is that I started in June 2021 as an HR Coordinator and have been promoted twice in my two years at A&M. I am incredibly proud of this achievement, as it reflects both my dedication and the trust my colleagues place in my abilities.
Who are the individuals you consider your closest mentors, and what valuable lessons have you learned from them?
From the start of my career, Stephanie Tauber and Christine Pollack have been there for me, guiding me through the ins and outs of HR, a world I knew little about. They're exceptional leaders, and I've learned a lot from how they inspire everyone around them with their great qualities and unwavering support. Their mentorship has been invaluable, helping me grow both professionally and personally.
Looking back, what advice would you offer recent graduates about effectively transitioning from academia to the professional world?
Networking is essential! Cultivate and sustain relationships within your field. Equally important is maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Transitioning into the professional world can be challenging, so prioritize your physical and mental well-being to navigate it successfully.
What are your career aspirations for the next few years?
I aim to expand my expertise in HR by actively participating in conferences and networking opportunities with fellow HR professionals. Recognizing that I am still in the early stages of my career, I am committed to continuous learning and development within my field. I am eager to absorb as much knowledge and insight as possible to enhance my skills further and contribute effectively to my professional endeavors.
Best Practices for Effectively Building Relationships in the Consulting Industry
How do you approach networking and building professional relationships, and what tips would you offer to others just starting?
To expand your professional network, attend industry events, join relevant online communities and reach out to alumni or professionals for informational interviews. Building these connections can provide valuable insights and open opportunities for career growth.
What's your favorite hobby or activity outside of work, and how did you get into it?
I started playing soccer when I was three years old and continued all the way through college. Now that I have graduated, I am a youth soccer coach for girls aged nine and 14. Coaching is a great way to give back to the sport that gave me everything growing up.
What's a book, movie or TV show that has profoundly impacted you, and why?
As an avid reader, one of my favorite series and one that has impacted me significantly is the Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas. The female protagonist embodies inspiring qualities, and I look to carry those qualities with me in my own life. Her resilience and determination are traits I strive to emulate every day.
