Meet Richard Harris (BS ’15), a Lundquist College of Business alumnus who transitioned from digital advertising into data science, analytics, and leadership in the AI space. From taking calculated career risks to building authentic connections, Richard shares actionable advice for students navigating their early careers.
Bet on Yourself and Embrace Risk
Early in his career, Richard realized that true growth often requires stepping outside your comfort zone. He took an intentional step back in title to shift from marketing into data analytics, and later stepped into a leadership position before feeling 100 percent ready.
He says taking risks and embracing challenges early in your 20s allows room for growth and learning, and that the road to success is often paved by those willing to bet on themselves.
Provide Value When Building Relationships
Networking isn’t just about reaching out when you need something. It’s about active listening and mutual value. Richard highlights the rule of listening twice as much as you speak and suggests adding value after conversations, such as sending a relevant article, video, or resource tied to what you discussed.
He also notes that students shouldn’t hesitate to reach out to alumni on LinkedIn or Lundquist Connect. Ducks love helping fellow Ducks, no matter their title.
Highlight Outcomes Over Tools on Your Resume
When applying for roles—especially in technical fields like data science and AI—listing tools and technologies isn’t enough to stand out. Richard notes that employers look for the business problems you solved and the specific outcomes you delivered using those tools.
Additionally, he says to take the time to tailor your resume and cover letter to specific roles rather than sending out a generic application. Showing that you understand the company’s pain points and how you can be the solution—that’s much more powerful.
Bring Your Authentic Self to Work
Richard also advocates not putting on a facade or trying to fit into a mold of who you think a company wants you to be. Instead, be comfortable with the unknown, be honest about what you know and don’t know, and foster psychological safety and inclusivity wherever you go. Being authentic, he notes, will take you much further in your career than trying to be someone else