Leading by Example

As a track and field student-athlete, a member of Trinity University’s DEI committee, and the judicial chair of the Student Government Association, Pierce Jackson ’25 has risen as a leader on campus. And, though he’s just a junior, Jackson is already applying his Trinity experiences to be a leader in his career field.  

Initially, Jackson came to Trinity determined that computer science and math weren’t for him. But after getting advice from a friend and fellow student-athlete, Jackson decided to give a business analytics and technology major a chance. He soon realized his natural knack for computer and analytical thinking, and now he’s lined up an investment banking operations internship at Goldman Sachs for Summer 2024.

“I am beyond excited to be able to work for such a company as Goldman Sachs. This summer, I hope to learn the intricacies of investment banking and see the way financial transactions happen outside of the classroom. I am bound to meet some incredible people while I am there, and I am sure that I will get to make lifetime connections with those around me,” Jackson says. “To have a name like Goldman Sachs on my resume will set me up for amazing opportunities in my professional life that I will take advantage of to help me progress to my future goal of being the CEO of a Fortune 500 company.”

Through his various leadership positions on campus, Jackson has realized he is a lead-by-example person, a skill that will benefit him in his ambitions to be a CEO.

“I don’t want to be the leader who intimidates people but one that makes them feel welcome and at home. Still, I also make sure that, while being friendly, I am also holding them and myself to a standard of excellence every day so that they can also achieve the goals that they have set for themselves,” Jackson says. “This mindset has changed me personally as I make sure to be the best I can every day in every aspect so that I can continue to be a great leader to others both on and off the field.”

Taking on multiple responsibilities can be challenging, but Jackson finds balance through music, specifically playing the piano. “The piano is a safe space for me to get away from school, sports, and work and let out all my emotions. This time I have with my thoughts is what helps to bring me peace throughout the day,” Jackson says.

Behind every great leader is a great support system, and Jackson has found that at Trinity. “My roommate and my other close friends on the track team have picked me up at my lowest points and made sure that I keep working hard and sticking to my goals,” Jackson says. “Trinity is an amazing place that has someone for everyone, and finding that ‘someone’ to be a rock is so important.”