Gabby Elliott, a supply chain management major graduating in December 2021, shares about her journey at Texas Tech and Rawls College.
As 2021 comes to a close and the promise of a new year is on the horizon, the fall class of 2021 prepares to begin their journey into the world as the next generation of business professionals, influencers and leaders.
Gabby Elliott, originally from Schertz, Texas, will be graduating in December 2021 with a bachelor's degree in supply chain management.
During her time at Rawls College, Gabby has been a member of various organizations including the Tech Supply Chain Association (TSCA),Rawls Dean's Student Council, Multicultural Student Business Association (MSBA) and Tech Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). In the past, she's served as TSCA's vice president of membership, MSBA's treasurer and secretary, and Tech SHRM's vice president of engagement. Gabby currently serves as TSCA's executive officer.
Outside of her involvement in university-based organizations, Gabby has completed multiple supply chain internships with companies like Cisco, General Motors and Pioneer Natural Resources.
Q&A
Why did you choose to major in supply chain management?
Since committing to Texas Tech as a senior in high school, I knew supply chain management was the degree and field I wanted to pursue. The field's wide range of opportunities combined with its growing demand in the workforce initially piqued my interest. After further research, I found that the field also suited my skills well. To me, graduating with a degree in supply chain management meant that I would be able to apply my organization, communication and problem-solving skills in a dynamic role that is applicable to virtually every industry.
What did you enjoy most about the supply chain management program?
Despite being a relatively new program, I've felt extremely supported in the supply chain management program. I've especially felt supported from a recruiting and professional development perspective. Throughout my time in the program, I've really enjoyed getting to connect with companies and their recruiters through Tech Supply Chain Association events, the Supply Chain Career Fair Breakfast, class visits and alumni connections.
What educational accomplishments are you most proud of?
The educational accomplishment I'm most proud of is receiving the Achieving Women's Excellence in Supply Chain Operations, Management, and Education (AWESOME) Excellence in Education Scholarship. It was an honor to receive this award from AWESOME and to have the opportunity to be connected with an organization that focuses on supporting women in supply chain operations and management programs. Given AWESOME's focus on supporting women in supply chain and in leadership, it was exciting to be identified as a scholar with potential in those groups.
During your time at Rawls College, who has made the greatest impact on you, and why?
Dean Margaret L. Williams has made a great impact on me personally, academically and professionally during my time at Rawls College. As part of the Scovell Business Leadership Program (SBLP), Dean Williams has served as my academic mentor. Over the years, she's encouraged me to pursue an out-of-state internship, serve Rawls College councils and committees and even take golf lessons with her.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I will join Cisco full-time in Austin, Texas. I will be joining the product operations team as a product lifecycle supply chain project specialist. My summer internship with Cisco was amazing, so it was an easy decision to rejoin full-time when the opportunity presented itself.
Why do you love Rawls College?
I love how Rawls College prioritizes its students and offers many resources to support students' academic and professional development. For example, resources such as the Snyder Center for Business Communication, undergraduate advising and the Career Management Center (CMC) are offered. These are all resources I've used that I know have contributed to my success at Rawls College.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Numerous people I've met with to discuss career development have mentioned that some of the best roles and career shifts are ones you hadn't planned. With that in mind, I always want to keep an open mind when it comes to the future and taking on new roles. Regardless of the specific role, I hope that I'm enjoying my work, developing my skills, and passing on my knowledge and experiences to help others.