Brent Mason Carter, a finance major graduating in May 2021, shares about his experiences at Texas Tech and Rawls College.
Wherever life takes them after Rawls College — graduate studies or a new job — the spring class of 2021 reflects on the achievements made possible through a community that promotes academic success, encourages student involvement, and inspires excellence.
Brent Mason Carter, originally from Bedford, Texas, will be graduating in May 2021 with a bachelor's degree in finance and a concentration in real estate.
During his undergraduate career, Carter gained leadership experience in various student organizations. He served as director of operations for the Real Estate Organization (REO), was on the board of directors for the Finance Association, and was an active member in the Business Valuation Club. Additionally, Carter was selected as one of eight undergraduate student members for the competitive Student Managed Investment Fund, an advanced security valuation and portfolio management practicum course.
Beyond his studies, Carter completed two internships. Most recently, he completed a financial analyst internship with Coldwell Banker Commercial Capital Advisors, and in the summer of 2020, he served as a financial analyst intern with Dell Technologies.
Q&A
Why did you choose to major in finance?
I've always been entrepreneurial and analytical by nature. Majoring in finance was a great way for me to not only take advantage of my strengths, but to build a strong foundation of business and investing knowledge. I plan on starting a company one day, and I definitely don't want it to go bankrupt.
What educational accomplishments are you most proud of?
Although I know it is surely not the most important thing, I am most proud of my grade point average. When I was an incoming freshman, I decided I wanted to graduate with Summa Cum Laude honors because I felt like I did not reach my full potential in high school. I am very proud to have accomplished that goal. Also, being the first person to graduate college in my family means a lot.
During your time at Rawls College, who has made the greatest impact on you, and why?
The finance department as a whole has been so helpful and supportive both educationally and professionally. Whether it was related to further understanding a concept discussed in class or deciding between different internships, my finance professors were always there for me. Namely, Dr. Cardella, Dr. Harrell, Dr. Myers, Dr. Moore, Dr. Ottolenghi, Dr. Buschbom, Dr. Chung, Dr. Armstrong, and Dr. Ritchey. Thank you all so much.
What are your plans after graduation?
This summer I will be moving to Silicon Valley to work for eBay. I will be joining their Finance Futures Program and working as a financial/business analyst. I didn't plan on moving to California after graduation, but this was an opportunity I couldn't pass up. I am very grateful to everyone over at eBay for deciding to bring me on.
What advice would you offer current or incoming Rawls College students?
I would say make the most of every opportunity, connect with your peers, and have a good time. If you seize every opportunity that comes your way, you will leave Rawls one day with no regrets.
What were some of your favorite things about living in Lubbock?
I would describe Lubbock as being both peaceful and lively at the same time. The city itself is small enough to get away from the hustle of a major metropolitan area like DFW, but big enough to have everything you could need within it. I think Lubbock is a great college town, if not the best college town, and I could not recommend it enough.
Why do you love Rawls College?
The excellent facilities, world-class professors, and supportive donors make the Rawls College of Business a great place to earn your degree. In my opinion, people who graduate from Rawls are extremely well prepared for a successful life beyond college and I will be forever grateful. Wreck ‘em Tech!