This PV Grad is ready to kick off her career at Fortune’s ‘Most Admired Companies’

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas - Carterica Clark, a proud native of Shreveport, Louisiana, has carved out an inspiring path for herself as a first-generation college student. All set to receive a bachelor's degree in business management from Prairie View A&M University, Carterica will soon begin her new career at Cintas, which was recently named Fortune's 2024 World's Most Admired Companies.

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Carterica's journey is a testament to her resilience, dedication and unwavering faith.

Growing up, Carterica was driven by a deep desire to make her family proud. This motivation fueled her academic journey. "This opportunity holds tremendous significance for me," Carterica shared. "My hard work and perseverance have been driven by a deep desire to make my family proud and to honor the support they have given me."

Her path to PVAMU was not a direct one; she transferred from Grambling State University, seeking a new environment that aligned more closely with her aspirations. At PVAMU, she found not only academic opportunities but also a community that nurtured her growth.

One of Carterica's notable achievements at PVAMU was founding the Prairie View Banking Association, where she served as president until her graduation. This role, along with her involvement in the House of Vision, Chi Alpha, True Life Change Christian organizations, the Chevron Leadership Academy, and the Student Garden Club, enriched her college experience. "These experiences have significantly enhanced my leadership skills, bolstered my confidence in presentations, and deepened my relationship with Jesus Christ," she explained.

Her participation in the PV Banking Academy was a cornerstone of her academic and professional development. "Participating in the PV Banking Academy was an incredibly enriching experience," Carterica said. "As the founder and president of the Prairie View Banking Association, I was able to immerse myself in the intricacies of the banking and financial sector." This experience not only provided her with valuable industry knowledge but also helped her secure two prestigious internships: one with the Federal Reserve Bank and another with the Federal Home Loan Bank.

Reflecting on her internship with the Federal Reserve Bank, Carterica described it as invaluable. "It provided me with firsthand exposure to the inner workings of the central banking system, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting," she said. The experience honed her analytical skills, deepened her understanding of monetary policy, and reinforced her commitment to a career in finance. An unforgettable moment was sitting in on a board of directors meeting and attending a luncheon with them. "This experience opened doors I never imagined I could access, significantly advancing my professional network and career prospects."

In addition to her academic and professional endeavors, Carterica is also a small business owner. She founded Exquisitetouchco, a Christian-based candle business aimed at creating high-quality, spiritually uplifting products. "My goal was to blend my faith with entrepreneurship, providing candles that inspire and comfort while also maintaining a commitment to ethical and sustainable practices," she explained. Her coursework in business management played a crucial role in her entrepreneurial success, allowing her to apply class lessons directly to her business operations.

As Carterica looks towards the future, she is excited about the next chapter in her professional journey. Her new position with Cintas is all thanks to a connection she made at a National Sales Network conference in Atlanta, Georgia. "What I am looking forward to most about starting this new position at Cintas is the opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge in a dynamic and impactful environment," she said.

Carterica chose PVAMU because of its mission statement and the exceptional opportunities it provides. "PVAMU offers a wealth of opportunities for my major, which I find incredibly valuable," she noted. "I particularly appreciate the family-oriented environment within the College of Business." This supportive atmosphere has significantly enriched her academic experience and personal growth, helping her achieve her career goals.

Her advice to current students is simple yet powerful: "Never give up when it gets hard; that's precisely the moment to push through and prevail. When in doubt, go to Jesus!"

As Carterica embarks on her new journey, she carries with her the lessons learned and the achievements earned at PVAMU, ready to make an impact in the world of business and beyond.

Click here to view more of this semester's notable graduates.

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