ITTA BENA, Miss.—A Mississippi Valley State University student experienced the opportunity of a lifetime when she was selected as one of 50 students from more than 500 applicants for a competitive tech program.
MVSU freshman Roseline Shapi was recently extended the opportunity to attend Bank of America’s Ignite with Tech Program in North Carolina.
The Zimbabwe native joined other first-year and sophomore students for the one and a half day program targeted to Black, African American, Hispanic, Latino, and Alaskan Native and American Indian students interested in the Bank of America technology business.
The event provided a unique opportunity for students to meet business professionals first hand, learn about the financial services industry, and start preparing for the application process.
“l was excited that l was among the applicants that were selected from a large pool of students,” said Shapi. “When I first arrived, I was a little intimidated seeing students from Ivy League schools and other well-known universities…But l quickly realized that I knew as much as they did.”
As a participant, Shapi learned about the unique culture and vast history at Bank of America, while taking part in networking receptions, “Day in the Life of” panels, sessions with recruiters, interactive simulations, special presentations and diversity and inclusion conversations with members of Bank of America's employee network.
“My two-days were spent networking with people who work at Bank of America and other students. I came to view the company as a tech company that is into banking,” Shapi said.
“We did some mock interviews, and that helped me learn how best l can market myself with authenticity. It was such a wonderful experience,” she added.
As an international student, Shapi said being a student at MVSU has helped her to adjust to life in America as well as prepare for opportunities like the Bank of America program.
“I like MVSU because the classes are small; I am not just a number. My professors are awesome and treat me like a partner,” Shapi said. “They want me to excel and are willing to do anything in their capabilities to make that happen including scheduling time for me where l can ask any questions and get help. I love how close-knit the community is, which has played a big role in making my experience at MVSU a wonderful one.”