Clarkston Associate Consultant Shares Career Story and Meaning of Pride
Courtnie, associate consultant at Clarkston, shares her experience with the firm and her thoughts on Pride! Read her career story below.
In honor of Pride Month, what does Pride mean to you?
Pride is a time to celebrate love, acceptance, and authenticity. Pride is a reminder that you are enough and that you matter. Pride is an appreciation of the historical struggles that led to our current celebrations, yet it is also the recognition of the progress we still must accomplish to reach a point of true intersectional equity. Pride is about community, togetherness, and love that deserves to be celebrated every single day.
How long have you been with Clarkston?
I have been with Clarkston for nearly one year. I joined the firm last August after graduating with my MBA from UNC Chapel Hill.
What is your role at Clarkston?
I am an Associate Consultant.
Tell us about a new skill you’ve developed recently.
I have been working on my project management skills recently and have really enjoyed the opportunities I have been given in the space. We have incredible project managers at Clarkston and it has been so valuable to learn from these experts and improve as a leader.
If you had to choose, which of Clarkston’s core values do you feel resonates with you the most?
Clarkston’s core value of teamwork resonates with me most. As a former collegiate athlete, I really appreciate our commitment to consistent team performance and professional development as we collaborate to deliver excellent results.
Which internal initiatives, communities, or projects are you involved in at Clarkston?
I have been very involved in the Pride Network as well as the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives at Clarkston. Clarkston’s emphasis on DE&I is incredibly motivating and it makes me proud to be a part of the firm. I am a member of two groups leading our 10-year DE&I goals and have also contributed to webinars for topics such as “Debunking DE&I Myths.” In addition to these initiatives, it has been a special experience to be a part of the Pride Network, where I feel like I can bring my authentic self to the workplace.
What advice would you give to someone starting at Clarkston?
Don’t hesitate to reach out to anyone if you need guidance, mentorship, or support. Everyone is willing to help you in your journey here!
In your experience, what qualities make someone a good consultant?
A willingness to constantly learn, adapt, and problem solve.
What drove you to accept Clarkston’s employment offer?
Clarkston’s positive culture as well as our commitment to professional development was so unique and I knew that I would gain valuable experience and feel supported in doing so.
Learn how you can develop your career at Clarkston here.