First Generation Knight Readies for Career in Professional Selling
By Josh Miranda
Early on, Taylor Nolan decided she would need a college degree to achieve her dreams – making her the first in her immediate family to pursue higher education. The past four years provided a formative experience for Nolan, who uncovered a passion for marketing and sales. With an impressive portfolio of involvement around campus, including UCF’s Professional Selling Program (PSP), the American Marketing Association and a variety of student organizations, Nolan took full advantage of her time in college to positively shape her future.
“Your college experience is what you make out of it, and you only get out what you put into it,” Nolan said. “It’s important to leave a legacy and have good stories to tell!”
Nolan expects to graduate in December 2020 and will enter the workforce with extensive leadership and work experience at companies like Conversa Health (Sales Development Representative Intern) and Cheddars Scratch Kitchen (Marketing Analysis).
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About Your College Experience
Why did you decide to go to college?
I always wanted to go to college for the experiences and to continue my education. I grew up having barely anything due to my parents not receiving higher education and knew that my path to success would be different. College gave me the opportunity to continue learning what I wanted in a career, but it also provided me with personal growth along the way. UCF gave me so much, and I am eternally grateful for all of the experiences this school has to offer.
How has UCF and the College of Business helped you prepare to launch your career?
UCF and the College of Business specifically taught me a lot of accountability and drove me to be the motivated person I am today. UCF provides many opportunities to get involved and take on leadership positions. With opportunities such as The EXCHANGE, networking events and mentorship programs, it was easy to get involved and connect with professionals who would help me with my career. I feel much more prepared for my future due to the experiences UCF had to offer.
Why did you join the Professional Selling Program (PSP)?
I joined the PSP due to my interest in sales and the exposure to the many professionals who help with the program. I received so much more than I am ever imagined from the PSP. It taught me a lot about myself as a young professional and prepared me at a much faster pace than a lot of students.
How has the Professional Selling Program helped you develop professionally?
The PSP is the best experience I had at UCF. It provided me with skills that others who are not as fortunate as I am will have to learn on their own if they want to succeed. This program sets its members up for success. We are surrounded by like-minded, driven individuals who lift each other up and thrive off each other’s success. I am so fortunate to have this incredible experience.
What other activities are you part of at UCF? And why do you get involved on-campus?
Other than the PSP, I am part of many activities/clubs at UCF. I was a member of the Alpha Delta Pi sorority, where I held a variety of leadership roles. I also enjoy playing intramural sports at UCF and am a member of student organizations such as the American Marketing Association and Rho Lambda. It is so important to get involved on-campus because, before you know it, your college experience will be over with and gone — you need to make the most out of it.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I see myself in a sales career at a company where I can grow and become a wise leader. My goal is to not only be a top performer, but also a leader to others at my company and in my community. I would like to become a mentor and network with students who are in my position today. I want to have a healthy work-life balance and have the opportunity to give back to UCF and the PSP however I can.
We wish Taylor Nolan the best of luck in her career. Go Knights, Charge On!
Want to help students like Taylor during these difficult times? Give Today