The dean of the Business School shared advice on how students can successfully navigate the beginning of their professional careers.
By Institutional Communications
At some point in every college student’s life, a question arises: “How will I bring what I learned in the classroom into the professional world?” For many young people, the transition from university life to the workplace can seem challenging. To address this reality, Dr. Dennis Román Roa, dean of the Business School at Universidad del Sagrado Corazón, offered a talk for graduating students focused on reflecting on the challenges and opportunities they will face as they begin their professional careers.
Through an open and engaging conversation, the dean shared recommendations centered on personal growth, leadership, and building a career with purpose.
Find a workplace that shares your goals and values
While discussing the job search process, Dr. Román Roa highlighted the importance of identifying organizations whose values and objectives align with each student’s personal and professional aspirations. Beyond simply obtaining a position, he encouraged graduates to seek environments where they can grow and contribute value over the long term.
“A diploma is a key, not a guarantee.”
The dean emphasized that the value of a diploma does not lie in the title itself, but in the value each young professional chooses to bring to their field using the tools and knowledge acquired through their studies. He also encouraged students to continually ask themselves what their professional value proposition will be and how they can become active agents in their own development.
“Adopt the mindset of a general manager.”
Although many graduates may begin their careers in specialized roles, Dr. Román Roa recommended developing a broad understanding of organizations and decision-making processes. He also underscored that management practices involve planning, organization, leadership, and oversight, which are skills that can be transferred across different roles and industries.
“See yourselves as a company,” the dean advised, explaining that this mindset involves identifying growth opportunities, building interpersonal connections, and taking care of oneself within the business world.
“No one starts out as a director.”
Another central message of the talk was the importance of valuing the early stages of a professional career. The dean encouraged graduates not to fear starting in entry-level positions, as these experiences provide opportunities to learn, develop skills, and discover ways to make an impact within an organization.
The importance of emotional intelligence
In an increasingly competitive job market, Dr. Román Roa stressed that technical skills, while essential, must be accompanied by emotional intelligence. The ability to communicate effectively, manage conflict, and work collaboratively are fundamental qualities for those aspiring to lead in any industry.
“Do you want a job, or do you want a career?”
As a final reflection, the dean invited students to think beyond immediate goals and consider how each work experience can become part of a long-term professional journey.
“You never know where your career will truly begin,” he expressed, noting that great opportunities are not always found at the most recognized companies, but rather in spaces where individuals can grow, learn, and fully develop their potential.
At the conclusion of the talk, Dr. Dennis Román Roa also highlighted the faculty’s commitment to supporting new generations of professionals beyond the classroom. According to the dean, the role of the university should not be limited to transmitting knowledge, but should also include serving as a source of guidance, mentorship, and support as students build their professional futures.