Angilee Blake’s journey from Jamaica to the corridors of Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) is a testament to resilience and ambition. Moving to the U.S. at the age of 15, Blake embraced her new life in New Jersey with determination. Now, as she stands on the brink of graduating from Rider University, her future in finance looks promising.
Growing up in Jamaica, Blake’s family envisioned a future brimming with opportunities in the U.S. This vision fueled her drive as she entered Rider University. Within a week, she had secured an on-campus job and joined a student group focused on community needs. Her proactive approach set the tone for her university journey.
Achievements and Accolades
Blake’s academic and extracurricular efforts have garnered her significant recognition. As she prepares to graduate, she has been honored with the President’s Award and the Engaged Learning Award, both prestigious accolades for graduating seniors. Her accomplishments include awards from Rider’s Norm Brodsky College of Business and the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).
“My family came here with the idea of getting more opportunities and being in a better place than where we were before,” Blake shares. “I took it upon myself to put myself in spaces and have experiences where I was growing as an individual, and I really wanted to find out what kind of leader I could be.”
Career Launch at Bristol Myers Squibb
Blake’s journey at Rider has culminated in a role as an IT finance analyst in the Accounting Development Program at BMS, a position she secured last fall. “BMS and what they stand for are amazing,” Blake says. “They have such great initiatives to give back and help patients. The desire to give back — that’s at the core of who I am.”
With a major in finance, a concentration in private wealth management, and a minor in business analytics, Blake is well-prepared for her new role. Her academic journey includes internships with Wiss CFO Advisory and Deloitte Audit & Assurance, along with a co-op with Johnson & Johnson during her first year. These experiences, combined with her coursework, have equipped her with practical skills and insights into the finance industry.
Challenges and Growth
Blake’s transition to life in the United States came with its challenges, including culture shock and uncertainty. However, she embraced these challenges and actively sought involvement on campus. Her participation in EOP, DAARSTOC, and her role as a Bonner Community Scholar were pivotal in regaining her confidence and finding her voice.
“I saw a lot of growth in myself because of all my involvement on campus,” Blake reflects. “I felt more comfortable and felt more knowledgeable in any room that I was in because of how involved I was. I became more outgoing and, in a sense, was able to find myself again.”
A Global Perspective
One of the defining moments of Blake’s university experience was her participation in the Business of Sports to Ireland trip, supported by a scholarship from James P. Bush. This international experience offered her unique insights into community-oriented business practices, challenging her perceptions of traditional business models.
“The trip gave me a different perspective on what business is,” Blake says, emphasizing the importance of community in business.
Commitment to Giving Back
Blake’s journey has been driven by a desire to help others. “I came into Rider with an idea of wanting to help people and wanting to give back because a lot of where I am now is due to the people in my life and them giving back to my family,” she explains. “I want to carry that forward and be someone who is very giving.”
Note: This article is inspired by content from https://www.rider.edu/about/news/first-generation-rider-student-embarks-promising-career-finance. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.