BYU Marriott Information Systems graduates Jared Facer and Ali Wilkin were recently recognized as two of the top students in their graduating classes. Facer, from Brentwood, Tennessee, was named the 2018 Outstanding Undergrad Student and Wilkin, from Superior, Colorado, was named the 2018 Outstanding MISM Student.
Both students were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the information systems program, their professional development, and their dedication to helping others.
Starting in August, Facer will be working as a Business Analyst at Amazon in Seattle, Washington, which is where he interned last summer. There he will put the skills and knowledge he gained in the IS program to use.
“The most important skill I learned was how to work well in a group. I have used that skill in all other classes and work experiences. One of the most important things I learned is that you have to be adaptable, because things never go exactly as planned, whether that be a project or career goals.”
Wilkin will be working as a Data Visualization Analyst on the Apps Culture & Design Team at ExxonMobil in Houston, Texas. Her advice to current or prospective IS students is to pursue passions—a critical element of her professional development.
“Stay dedicated to your passions and what you’re good at, even if you can’t see how they fit in at the moment. Continuing to pursue art led me to UX and UI Design, which I love. A bunch of my friends that love the outdoors found tech positions at outdoor companies. People interested in health and wellness found a way to fulfill their life mission by working at healthcare institutions. Be unique, keep your passions fueled, and design your life how you want it to be.”
Both students recognize the importance of the relationships they built while studying IS.
“I learned that taking the time to help build others up, even when it’s inconvenient, is always worth it. I’ve often found that those I’ve helped have returned the favor when I’ve been in dire need. I’ve made it as far as I have because I’ve put people first,” said Wilkin.
Facer added, “The only advice I would give would be to get good at making genuine friends in class and work. You never know when you’re going to be able to help someone or get help from someone. It can help you progress and build relationships along the way.”
Both Facer and Wilkin now go from backpack to briefcase. While they will no longer be picking locks and cracking passwords in Dr. Vance’s security class or running SQL in Dr. Anderson’s class, they will take the skills and relationships they’ve gained in the IS program to their respective work places. Their outstanding contributions to the IS department and the BYU Marriott School of Business will not be forgotten soon.