Student Spotlight: Maurielle Yao
Florida Women in Business, UF/IFAS Extension, Bank of America, UF’s Family Youth and Community Sciences, and America Saves are combining forces to present Savings in the Swamp 2016—a personal finance workshop that offers strategies to reaching your financial goals—which begins at 4:30 p.m. today in the Ustler Hall Atrium.
Senior Maurielle Yao, the Vice President of Professional Development for Florida Women in Business, is helping lead the effort for today’s event. Learn more about Maurielle, and why today’s event is so important.
Name: Maurielle Yao
Hometown: Tampa, FL
Major: Finance, Real Estate Minor
Year: Senior
Student Organizations/Activities
• Vice President of Professional Development, Florida Women in Business
• Member, Florida Opportunity Scholars Academy of Leadership
Why did you choose to attend UF and Warrington?
UF is one of the top universities in the nation, and Warrington is ranked among the best. The Gator Nation is everywhere, and I’ve always wanted to be part of such a passionate and strong community.
Why did you decide to major in Finance?
I love analyzing numbers. I have a passion for real estate, my minor, because it allows me to use my problem-solving and relationship skills. Finance is the key driver of any real estate investment!
How has Warrington impacted you?
Warrington has made me into the leader I strived to be when I initially entered UF. I remember how helpful my Warrington Welcome class was during my freshman year. It guided me through the college, and helped me gain the confidence I always wanted.
What has been your favorite experience or memory so far at Warrington?
My favorite experience was having a CAP (Career Academic Peer) Mentor. The first few years at UF were stressful and difficult as I faced challenges at home and in classes. My CAP Mentor supported me throughout all my struggles, and taught me a lot on how to be a successful, professional woman. I will always be thankful for her.
Why did you get involved with Florida Women in Business?
Florida Women in Business (FWIB) is an organization that shares my values and makes me feel welcomed, while also giving me the confidence and knowledge to break through the barriers that I have and will face as a woman. We also have the opportunity to network one-on-one with many Fortune 500 companies during our meetings, which I really enjoy.
Why should UF students get involved with Florida Women in Business?
FWIB empowers members by providing a supportive environment, open-minded discussions, and fun activities! What I love is that if you have an idea, you have the power to make it happen. I started and inspired new logos and branding for FWIB, something I have been working on for years.
Why is Savings in the Swamp an important workshop for students?
Personal finance skills are absolutely necessary for everyone to learn. It’s important to practice budgeting and saving early on because it forms responsible spending habits that will benefit you in the long term. Savings in the Swamp, part of the national campaign America Saves, teaches students about personal finance apps, how to make a budget and stick to it, and how to prepare for life after college. FWIB’s dream is to have personal finance skills taught in schools more often.
Tell us about your most recent internship or study abroad experience.
I interned as a leasing consultant this past summer for Camden Property Trust, a nationwide REIT that develops, owns, and manages apartment homes. I was placed in a rotational program that introduced me to property management, accounting, landscaping, marketing, and more. It was challenging, but I learned so much!
What are your current career plans?
I accepted a full-time offer with Camden Property Trust where I plan to develop my career in property management. My summer internship was a truly wonderful experience that allowed me to understand the apartment industry. I can’t wait to get started!
What advice would you give incoming students?
Create a goal, never give up, and believe in yourself. If you believe in a goal and stay resilient, all your actions will go toward making your goals happen.
Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.
I have a very creative side. I enjoy graphic design, painting, and digital photography. I love oil painting because I can create richer colors and textures.
How do you spend your time when not studying?
I love trying out new recipes, eating, spending time with friends and family, eating, painting, watching movies, reading, going outdoors, working out, and oh, eating!
If you had a million dollars, how would you spend it?
I would first help out my parents for all the sacrifices they’ve made for me. I would not be here without them. And, as a first generation American, I would then help out all of my family in the Philippines. Finally, I would save the rest for investments and my future family.
What song has been stuck in your head recently?
“Folgers Crystals” by J Cole. I’m a big J Cole fan and he never disappoints.
Which social media platform could you not live without?
I honestly could live without social media, but I enjoy having Facebook and Snapchat. I moved around the country a lot, so both keep me updated with how my friends are and what they’re up to!
