#PointParkWorks: HR Major Completing Co-op With Business Software Company

Meet Devon Tate

Co-op: Procurement Specialist for SAP Ariba (#MakeProcurementAwesome)
Major: Human Resource Management
Expected graduation: Fall 2017
College activities: Black Student Union, Pittsburgh Human Resource Association and Society for Human Resource Management student chapter at Point Park University
Scholarship from Point Park: Transfer Presidential
Hometown: Penn Hills, Pa.
High schools: Penn Hills Senior High School and The Neighborhood Academy
Now living in: West End neighborhood of Pittsburgh
Hobbies/interests: Walking my dog, exercising and spending time with family and friends
LinkedIn: Devon Tate

"Devon's co-op experience, along with working full time while taking classes full time, are preparing him for the demanding schedule of a business professional. Point Park and SAP Ariba are teaching him how to manage his time wisely and effectively while producing excellent results. With Devon's positive attitude, willingness to learn and work ethic, I have no doubt he will achieve career success."

-- Megan Karl, Team Lead, Customer Assistance, SAP Ariba

How did you land your co-op position with SAP Ariba?

I heard about SAP Ariba through a friend who referred me. I applied for a procurement specialist position, met the qualifications and then completed a two-hour interview. I've worked at SAP Ariba since October 2016 and I began the co-op program at Point Park University this past January. At the end of the summer, I will have earned 12 credits toward my human resource management degree through this co-op.

Why did you choose Point Park University and the HR management major?

I had heard so many good things about Point Park and I liked the location of campus being Downtown near so many business professionals. Also, Point Park awarded me the Transfer Presidential scholarship.

I chose HR management because I've always been passionate about helping others. Also, this is a career field that is not going to phase out. There's always going to be a demand for HR.

Tell us about the work you do at SAP.

SAP is the world's leading business software company. We strive to make life simpler for our clients. Through our business software, I work with international suppliers to make sure their invoices are paid. I also help these suppliers navigate our software and make transactions.

How have your classes at Point Park helped you in your co-op position?

I've been able to use my education from Point Park in real-life work experiences. I've learned about labor and law regulations, business writing, business research and development and how to communicate more effectively. The knowledge I've gained in these classes is something I use daily. Also, being at a diverse university like Point Park has helped me to work well with international suppliers.

What role have Point Park faculty played in your career development?

Point Park's faculty have played a major role in my career development by being there for me, supporting my ideas and providing me with a wealth of knowledge throughout my college journey. Dean Steve Tanzilli and Professors Sandy Mervosh and Patrick Mulvihill have a been a great supportive team who have helped make me successful here at SAP and at Point Park.

What are your career goals after graduation?

I want to continue working at SAP and transition into the human resources department. Also, I want to attend graduate school in the near future and pursue a degree in international leadership.

What advice do you have for students considering a co-op?

It's a great opportunity to gain work experience while getting your education. However, you have to be driven and motivated to effectively balance both work and school. The co-op program is an excellent stepping stone to becoming a real industry professional. Another great aspect of the co-op program is that it is open to all undergraduate students in the Rowland School of Business.