Meet Alyssa Ri’chard.

Meet Alyssa Ri’chard.

Not too long ago, Alyssa was sitting in the same classrooms, walking the same halls, and traipsing in from the long, hot walk from distant UTSA parking lots – just like Roadrunners do today.

Now, she finds herself poised at a desk, assisting the leaders of a top-tier organization, breezing in from the beautifully shaded parking spaces located just outside a brand new, state-of-the-art building.

How did this transition happen? Is this what she had planned? Read below to hear more of Alyssa’s story. It’s a story that could be your story.

Did you ever imagine being on the team with GM Financial as a part of your story? I did not ever imagine this position being a part of my career trajectory! 

Then, how did you find your way to this position? Are you happy with the outcome? I would have not found this position without networking. I have been extremely happy with the outcome, and the possibilities are endless!

What do you like most about GM Financial? What I like most about GM Financial is the passion that everyone around me has. The leadership team has truly outworked themselves to make sure that everyone wants to come to work every day.

What opportunities have been most exciting in doing work there? The opportunity to be able to work with the SVP and VP! They are truly great leaders, and I cannot wait to absorb all the knowledge that I am able to learn from these two!

As a UTSA Alumnus, what helped you prepare for your future career (in this case, GMF)? Honestly, sitting down and really getting to what my core values are. I believe it all came down to knowing what I wanted in a career and preparing for it. Without those core values, I really did not know what I wanted, and it made it really hard to focus on what I wanted my purpose to be.

I would not have learned the importance of these ideas without the Career Center. It really does help everything else fall in place. Also, assisting in the Career Planning course was really a game changer. I was able to learn so much about the prep work that goes into career planning as a whole.

What has been most surprising to you in taking on a corporate position? How friendly and helpful everyone is. I have received help from fellow GM Financial employees all around the country. I have not had one bad experience!

What skills are most important (and helped you get this job)? The most important skills that helped me are self-motivation, flexibility, and problem solving. Being able to be quick on my feet and not panic when work piles up has been crucial!

What advice to you have to other Roadrunners interested in GM Financial or this line of work? The best advice I can give is to be coachable, have a ‘can do’ attitude, and bring your passion wherever you go!

What else should we all know about GMF and your career path? I am the first person in this role at the San Antonio Servicing Center! I cannot wait to see how this center grows and progresses over time.

And lastly, what is your favorite memory from your time at UTSA? My favorite memories from being at UTSA would have to be having lunch with my sisters. It has been quite amazing to have them both at UTSA and be able to share some memories with them both.

From lunch with sisters at UTSA to lunch in GM Financial’s delicious café on site, she’s still inspiring her sisters to dream big. A big high-five to a shining star out of UTSA! The story is just starting, and we can’t wait to see what’s to come.

If you’re interested in GM Financial, you can find part-time and full-time opportunities with them. One is available now on Handshake: https://app.joinhandshake.com/jobs/873650. All majors encouraged to apply!

By Karen Ivy
Karen Ivy Assistant Director-Student Services