The past four years at Wharton have allowed me to take advantage of numerous opportunities. I involved myself with Wharton Ambassadors to help prospective students learn more about “my dream school.” I took an interest in the Management Department and became a TA for the MGMT 100 class to facilitate team dynamics with freshmen. I was fortunate to partake in an independent study with the one-and-only Adam Grant, professor of management and the Class of 1965 Chair. But through all my activities and involvements, my favorite organization has been Wharton Women.
Just four years ago, when I was touring campus as a prospective student, I was impressed with Wharton Women’s vision and impact. I distinctly remember telling my mother that I would love to be involved in such a prestigious campus club. Today, I am humbled that I had the opportunity to serve as president of the organization.
Michelle Peluso, W’93, CEO of Gilt
It is an organization that values professionalism, development and, above all, empowering women in the workforce. We host business conferences that attract high-profile female executives and hold dinners for more than 300 people. It is an organization that allows you to gain real leadership. I have had the chance to interact with the CEO of Victoria’s Secret, Sharen Jester Turney, as well as have an intimate dinner with the CEO of Gilt, Michelle Peluso, W’93. Wharton Women allows anyone interested to learn about the future of women in the business world.
Wharton Women executive board at the Etiquette Dinner
Of course, it takes a team to coordinate the efforts of a 1000+ member organization and more than 70 events a year, and the executive board has been that support system for me during the past three years. The executive board consists of dynamic and inspiring women on campus who have also become some of my closest friends.
It is always important to find your niche on campus, and Wharton Women has provided me an outlet to be my best. So, yes, there are opportunities at every moment in Wharton, but it matters that you find your passion. I have given hours to Wharton Women over the years, but it has given me memories and experiences that are unparalleled in my college experience.
Editor’s note: This post originally appeared on the Wharton Undergraduate Program’s Student Voices blog on March 3, 2014.
