Impact Portfolio: We Are MLT
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Impact Portfolio ❯❯ Sheila Collins

Sheila Collins


ORGANIZATION

AARP Innovation Labs (Consultant)

EDUCATION

Undergraduate: Long Island University-Brooklyn Campus
MBA Program(s): University of Michigan Ross School of Business

MLT PROGRAM

MBA Prep 2004

Complete this sentence, "If not for MLT..."
My professional world would probably be a lot smaller. MLT opened up a network of endless possibilities. I’ve created amazing friendships and learned so much about myself along the way.

Please describe the impact MLT had immediately upon completing your program.
After completing MBA Prep, I not only got into one of my top five schools, I had a network of peers, and the confidence to explore new career options.

How has MLT changed the financial/economic trajectory for you and your family?
I have been fortunate to be in a field that is in high demand - innovation marketing and strategy. I’ve always been smart with my finances. My career has given me the ability to financially help people in my family. I believe in collective progress.

Has MLT elevated your personal and professional aspirations? If so, please provide an example.
MLT has taught me that there is more than one way to level up. It’s connected me to several informal mentors, who have provided guidance at critical times in my career.

Speak to a challenge MLT helped you overcome and how did that help your trajectory (i.e. confidence that you belong, growth mindset, vulnerability).
MLT provided me with reassurance about my career path. Now I serve as a mentor for others. I love helping people see their own light and always want them to shine.

Have you helped advance vulnerable people on their path to economic mobility? If so, how?
Yes, I’ve helped and continue to help people who are economically vulnerable. One person who I’m currently helping is super talented but lacks confidence. I’ve not only connected her to some key people in her industry, I’ve also connected her to a career coach I worked with— who helped me define my why. People in my immediate family are also very much in need of help. I tend to be seen as the one who made it, though my climb is still steep.

Share your favorite song, movie, or book, and why it appeals to you.
“Oh Sheila”- It’s my song. It gets me hyped. My hot pilates teacher plays it every Thursday morning.

What is your superpower?
My superpower is creating lifelong friendships. I truly value people who have good hearts and attitudes. I admire people who know that to whom much is given, much is required.

What gives you hope?
People and organizations that focus on making the world around them better. My toddler daughter, who tells me she loves herself. MLT, because it reinforces the fact that we are stronger and better together.

This content has been edited for brevity and clarity.
Published in 2019

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