Raquel Rendon is Assistant Vice President - Senior Business Planning Manager at Zurich North America, part of Zurich Insurance Group, a leading global insurer. She has a J.D. from Fordham Law School, an M.B.A. in Finance from Columbia Business School, and a B.A. in History from Princeton University. Ms. Rendon was one of my mentors during an externship with Zurich, which was organized by Futures and Options, a non-profit career development and paid internship program for NYC youth. I asked Ms. Rendon to share her thoughts with WayCoolWomen because she offered participants great advice, and was outgoing, positive, and supportive.
Misheel: What are some of your day-to-day responsibilities as a Business Execution Lead? Or how does a typical day look for you?
Ms. Rendon: What is interesting and fun about what I do is that everyday is different and presents new opportunities to learn and experience something different. In my role I work with the Chief Operating Officer of our US National Account Division to ensure that we are bringing consistency and clarity throughout the organization as we deliver on the Strategic goals that my company has set. Practically, my day can be filled with meetings, information analysis and corporate communication development or dinners, concerts and conversation with interesting people.
Misheel: What have been some of the biggest challenges and rewards for you throughout your career?
Ms. Rendon: I think one of my biggest challenges throughout my career was finding my voice. I did not often speak up for myself and for my achievements. I allowed things to happen to me rather than speaking up and out for what I wanted and what I was capable of. Once I realized no one was going to advocate for me better than myself, I started asking for what I wanted and good things started coming to me. Never be afraid to speak up for yourself and ask for what you want!
Misheel: For many young people, especially high school students who are preparing to go to university and are thinking about their future careers, we hear about pursuing our passions. How have your interests lead you to where you are now?
Ms. Rendon: My interests and passions have always encouraged me to keep learning and looking for different opportunities. It is very important to allow yourself the room to explore your passions and interests as they may lead you to a place you never thought you would get to.
Misheel: What advice would you give to someone who might not know what they want to do or study?
Ms. Rendon: Follow your interests and passions! When you do something, you love, you give it your all and will be successful. Additionally, it is okay not to know what you want to do with your life or what you want to study. What you need to have is an open mind and take advantage of all the opportunities college affords you. Travel, see the world and take the time to figure out what you like and want while you do not have all the pressures and responsibility that comes with being an adult. Even if you think you cannot afford it, look for options out there that may help you realize your dreams. Nothing is impossible - you have no limits, so don’t limit yourself!!
