Campus Spotlight: Laura Mota
An Analyst's Insights on Why Strong Communication and Self-Reflection Are Crucial for Budding Consultants Entering the Industry
Laura Mota is an Analyst with Alvarez & Marsal’s (A&M) Global Transaction Advisory group in Miami, Florida. She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a master’s in taxation from the University of Miami.
In this Q&A, Laura shares her journey from mastering time management at the University of Miami to choosing A&M for its balance of guidance and autonomy. She highlights the collaborative culture of the Miami office, her methods for staying updated on industry trends and essential consulting skills like self-awareness and communication.
Reflecting on your college experience, what unexpected lessons or insights have you gained that have significantly impacted your career?
Reflecting on my time at the University of Miami, the most unexpected yet impactful lesson I learned was mastering time management. I thought I would gain practical skills, financial know-how and networking opportunities—and I did. But what truly stood out was the art of balancing my studies with work commitments. This skill has been invaluable in my career, helping me tackle diverse professional challenges efficiently and confidently.
Why did you choose to intern at A&M?
Choosing where to intern is a significant decision when starting your career. Identifying your objectives and seeking companies that align with them is crucial. My priority was to pick a place that fostered a teaching environment while allowing interns and new hires to take ownership of their work. This balance between guidance and autonomy was precisely what I found at A&M, making it an ideal fit for my career aspirations.
What motivated your decision to join A&M full-time?
What motivated my decision to join A&M full-time was their clear commitment to their staff. Throughout my internship, I witnessed their dedication to fostering an environment built on equity and collaboration. These core values resonated deeply with me and aligned perfectly with what I was seeking in a long-term career. So, at the end of my internship, the decision to join A&M full-time was easy.
Which office are you based in, and how would you describe the office culture?
I'm based in our Miami office, and the culture here encourages collaboration and accountability. It's a dynamic environment where teamwork is highly valued, and everyone is welcome to contribute their ideas and expertise. Colleagues feel a strong sense of responsibility to meet individual goals and support each other in achieving collective success. This collaborative atmosphere and commitment to accountability create a productive and positive workplace where everyone feels empowered to do their best work.
How do you stay updated on industry trends and developments, and what resources do you rely on for continuous learning and growth?
Liquidity was recommended to me by a colleague, and it's become a staple in my routine. It's helpful because it sends daily updates to my email so I can catch up within a few minutes. Their deal flow section is comprehensive, too, which I find helpful. When I want to dig deeper, I'll check out The Wall Street Journal, Barron's and MarketWatch—great for more in-depth insights.
Essential Tips for Success in the Consulting Industry
What crucial skills or qualities do you believe students should prioritize developing to thrive in the consulting industry, and how can they best prepare themselves?
To thrive in the consulting industry, students must develop a strong sense of who they are and work on their communication skills. Knowing yourself—your strengths, values and what makes you tick—gives you confidence and clarity in your work. Communication is key, too; it helps you share your ideas, work well with others and build meaningful relationships with clients.
To get ready, try doing some self-reflection to understand what you want and what you're good at. Also, look for chances to practice communicating, whether it’s through group projects, public speaking or just chatting with people at networking events. These skills will help you succeed in consulting.
Looking back, what advice would you offer recent graduates about effectively transitioning from academia to the professional world?
My advice to recent graduates transitioning from academia to the professional world is to recognize that while it’s a different environment, there are more similarities than you might think. Like in school, you'll learn every day, but now there’s an added responsibility to produce excellent work. Ensure that you take pride in everything you do—whether it’s the quality of your work, the questions you ask or how you interact with colleagues. Striving for excellence and a proactive attitude will help you adapt and thrive in your new professional setting.
What personal attributes or traits are essential for success in your field, and how do you continually nurture and develop these qualities within yourself?
Adaptability, initiative and a positive attitude are essential for my field's success. Challenges are inevitable, but how you respond to them sets you apart. I continually nurture these qualities by staying open to change, seeking new opportunities to take the lead and focusing on the positives even in difficult situations. This mindset helps me navigate professional hurdles and furthers my personal growth and resilience.
How do you approach networking and building professional relationships, and what tips would you offer to others just starting?
My approach to networking and building professional relationships begins with your available resources. Start by contacting your professors, who can provide valuable advice and access to their extensive industry connections. Additionally, the faculty and staff within your school's accounting department are likely leaders in your field and can be key contacts as you develop your network. For those just starting, my advice is to utilize these accessible connections and seek mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals within your academic environment.
What's the best advice you've ever received, and how has it influenced your life?
The best advice I’ve ever received was, "You don't have to see it to be it." This resonated with me deeply because it pushes me to be the change I want to see. It has influenced my life by encouraging me to pursue my goals and aspirations, even when there are no clear examples to follow. This mindset has empowered me to innovate, take risks and pave my path, knowing that my actions can inspire others to do the same.
What's something on your bucket list that you hope to accomplish in the next five years?
I aspire to continue exploring various destinations worldwide in the next five years. Specifically, my bucket list includes visiting Thailand, Japan and Denmark.
