Alumna Applies MBA Degree to Her Role as an International Relationship Manager for PNC Alumni Profile

Meet Beatrice Contreras

Job Title & Employer

International Relationship Manager, The PNC Financial Services Group

Major/Program

MBA

Graduation

August 2019

Scholarships

Employer partner tuition discount

Hometown

Pittsburgh, Pa.

Now Living In

Pittsburgh, Pa.

Hobbies & Interests

Family, gardening, golf, travel and learning

Why did you choose Point Park University for graduate school?

Although advanced in my international business career, completing the Point Park University MBA, with an international business concentration, was highly rewarding. The international business knowledge gained from compassionate and accomplished professors increased my understanding of international markets, which enhanced my ability to effectively work with international clients, as well as my confidence in pursuit of other endeavors. 

Additionally, the schedule flexibility of the MBA program and the ease of access from working in Downtown Pittsburgh made Point Park University a great selection.

Tell us about the work you do for PNC.

In my position as an international relationship manager, I have had the opportunity to develop customer relationships in different parts of the globe, which has included travel to numerous countries. These foreign trips have enabled me to learn and experience new cultures and business customs that have enriched my personal and professional growth. 

Additionally, the ability to speak Spanish has allowed me to travel with ease and quickly establish communication with Spanish-speaking prospects that transformed into revenue-generating PNC clients. I started my career responding to a bank job posting seeking a bilingual speaker, and it was through this first opportunity to use my second language skills that led to my international business career.

Also, due to the wonderful experiences using my Spanish-speaking skills, I cannot emphasize enough the value of Americans speaking a foreign language and traveling internationally. I believe it provides opportunity to enrich one’s life and the understanding of humanity. It was my trip to West African countries that impressed upon me the commonality of humanity. We all have and love our family, and seek opportunities to provide for, and improve our family’s lives.

How have our MBA classes and faculty impacted you?

The varied teaching presentations and materials enabled me to increase my knowledge in areas such as economics, foreign currency, market and country risks and other global topics that impact foreign clients' business decisions. Also, understanding numerous topics are critical in engaging and developing good communication with a client.       

Point Park's professors and staff were really great — knowledgeable, caring, supportive and very professional, which were great motivating factors.

What advice do you have for professionals who are considering an MBA program?

No matter your situation or point in time, it is never too late — go for it! The increased knowledge will build your self-confidence to reach for new personal and professional opportunities.

Final thoughts or favorite quote?

When one door closes, another opens! We always remember the first part of this quote which continues with “but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one that has opened for us.”

When I was laid off from my first job, I was devastated. Although I had a good job experience, I was emotionally distraught and focused on the “closed door." At the time, I did not see it as a major career/life-learning experience. However, "Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you are going to get."

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