Business Scholar Spotlight: William Perkins, Class of 2019

 1. Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is William (Bill) Perkins and I’m from Park Forest, Illinois. I graduated from Marian Catholic High School this last Spring. In high school, I played trombone, baritone, and electric bass in the bands. I also launched a concert series my sophomore year that raised money for charities and important causes. In my free time, I ran my own booking agency, putting together concerts at local DIY venues. I was also very active in Boy Scouts, where I achieved the Eagle Rank.

2. What is your major?

Marketing with a concentration in communications and promotions.

3. What are your career goals?

The way I look at it, I have my dreams and then my goals. My dream is to someday run my own large-scale music festival, like Lollapalooza or Riot Fest. For this to happen, there’s a lot that will have to go my way. So, while I keep that in my sights, I am grounding myself in event promotion and social media management for large organizations and/or startup businesses.

4. How has the Business Scholars program helped you, and what do you like about the Business Scholars program?

Already in my first semester, I have learned so much about professional presence from my BA 100 class that I’ve noticed the lessons have become a part of my daily life. Also, since I have been at school, the thought that I am a “Business Scholar” has inspired me to work harder and to truly represent this title. What I like the most about the Business Scholars Program is that I have a  smart group of peers that motivate me each day, which is why I never have to worry about not knowing anyone or being alone. The fear most people have in their first year in college is that fear of being alone. I am fortunate enough to not have to face this challenge. Working alongside other Business Scholars has helped a lot with my transition from high school to college.

5. Which organizations are you involved with on campus?

I am currently on the Marketing Committee of The Collegiate Association of Business Scholars and am a member of the American Marketing Association Chapter at UIC.

6. Which class has been your favorite thus far, and why?

So far, my favorite class has been BA 100. What I’ve learned in the class on professional presence is already making an impact on my daily life.

7. What is your biggest motivation/inspiration?

My biggest inspiration or motivation in life is achieving my dream of starting a festival. I was raised to believe that if you’re constantly working hard to be the best at what you do, and if you believe in yourself and always keep your priorities straight, you can do anything. With this in mind, I just keep growing, experiencing and learning, so that I can be as prepared as possible to chase my dreams and face whatever comes my way.

8. What current internships/jobs do you have?

I currently work several jobs. I have my own booking agency that works with local DIY venues. I am a lifeguard during summer and some Sundays during the school year at the Matteson Community Center. I also work as a lifeguard at the Park Forest Aqua Center. Hopefully, I will soon be working for Paramount Events catering company downtown.

9. What advice would you give incoming freshmen?

Don’t be afraid of the future, just prepare for it. Start doing anything you can now to prepare for your long-term goals and dreams, even if it’s just volunteering or going to events related to your field. Find out what you love to do in life and work to be the best at it. Whatever that love is, seek opportunities to grow your knowledge and find clubs or opportunities to put your foot in the door. If it’s an instrument, practice all the time and learn everything there is to know about it. In short, master your craft and never give up.