Alumni Spotlight: Erika Escobar

Photo: (L-R) Andrew Escobar, Emma Escobar and Erika Escobar.

Name: Erika Escobar

Title and company: Commercial client specialist at Truist

Years attended Seminole State College: 2006 - 2012

Majors and/or Degrees pursued at Seminole State College: Associate in Arts degree in 2010 and a human resource administrator technical certificate in 2012.

What factors played into you deciding to attend Seminole State College?
Good quality education for a reasonable price, close to home and flexible schedule for work. It was the gateway to open the doors to other opportunities. I feel very grateful for all that I learned here. The flexibility of being able to work is also greatly appreciated since it resulted in minimal student debt.

What were your steps after leaving Seminole State College?
I went to the University of Central Florida to get my bachelor’s in business management with a minor in human resources. Now, I’m expanding my knowledge and experience in the banking world. I have covered retail banking, retail support, retail lending and now commercial banking. I truly enjoy what I do and especially the constant learning atmosphere.

How did your time spent at Seminole State College help prepare you for this role?
It taught me how important communication is through email, on the phone or even through speeches (as much as I dreaded them). These are tools that you should always focus on improving as it shapes a lot of your work life.

Who was your greatest influence at Seminole State College?
Mr. Charles Lynch at the Oviedo campus, he never seemed to give up on his students and simplified college calculus to a point that it was almost fun! Keyword: almost. But honestly, teachers like him are a breath of fresh air in such a difficult subject for most. His dedication and care helped me remain focused and pass the class. Once you feel that commitment from a professor, it makes you want to do the same, if not more.

What are you most looking forward to with your role on the Alumni Leadership Team?
To give back and provide a helping hand to whoever may need it. Having mentors has been such a great blessing in my life, I can only hope to provide the same for others. There is no handbook for the “real world,” but through shared experiences, it makes it easier to navigate. Plus, everyone should be part of a supporting community as it fulfills our human need to belong.

What advice would you give to current students at Seminole State College?
Take the closed-door idea out of your mind, there is no such thing. A closed door means there is another way to enter. The professional world requires perseverance, and this is a very important quality to have to withstand the hardships that will come. Remain positive and professional in every case and scenario.

When you’re not working, what might someone find you doing?
Discovering great foodie places with my family and checking local events out as well. My daughter is very active, and she motivates me to always find new things to do with her. I am a proud Yelp Elite member, which promotes my foodie love exploration.

Anything else you’d like to add?
Go Raiders!