Kaitlin (Russ ’16) Arvin

Mathematics—Interdisciplinary

Biography

Though I didn’t initially know where my major in Math would take me, I knew I couldn’t go wrong studying my favorite subject! After graduating from Taylor in 2016 I continued my education at the University of Arkansas where I received my MBA. Together these two very different degrees opened the door for a unique career that has suited me perfectly. As a Category Manager working for companies such as Unilever and Bayer, I have had the opportunity to make a very tangible impact at the world's largest retailer, Walmart! If you've shopped for butter, tea, ice cream, cold medicine, or pain relievers at Walmart in the last few years, then you've seen my "work"! My job is to advise Walmart on the best category solutions for their customers. This includes what products make it onto the shelves, where they are located, how many units should be available, etc. I have relied on my Math and Computer Science skills extensively (the data is endless!) and am thankful for the ways my courses continually stretched and expanded my analytical thinking and problem solving skills. Not to mention, it was my background in Math that allowed me to stand out from the competition and land my first job!

What were some of your most valuable experiences at Taylor?

Whenever I think of Taylor, I’m immediately taken back to all the time spent surrounded by friends in Euler. It’s a challenging major, and at times it seemed the work would never end! But it’s because the work was challenging that I built such close relationships with my classmates. Some of my best memories are in the “Math Interaction Area” chowing down on a late night pizza or just being goofy after hours of studying. Not only were my fellow math majors some of my best friends, but they taught me, challenged me, pushed me, and encouraged me. I often say I couldn’t have made it through without them! Other valuable experiences related to my major included participating in math competitions, attending Pizza and Problem Solving, listening to guest speakers, and serving on the Math Club board. These opportunities exposed me to so much more learning and helped foster a love of math beyond just the classroom. Finally, being a part of the Honors program and spending a semester abroad were very formative and eye-opening experiences for me. Through the Honors Guild I attended a number of conferences and lectures (on topics very close to my heart!) that I might have missed out on otherwise. During my semester in Spain, I was able to pursue my passion of speaking Spanish and enjoy all the art and history the country has to offer as well.

How did your classes or interactions with professors at Taylor impact your growth?

Whether I was in a Math, Computer Science, Biblical Literacy, or other class it was always clear to me how much the professors genuinely enjoyed teaching and engaging with the students. I always felt comfortable stopping by during office hours to talk about class, upcoming internship plans, etc. We had picnics together and Christmas parties at their houses. I never doubted that my math professors cared about my success both at Taylor and in the years ahead. Their support and faith in me kept me going when I wasn’t sure about my career plans. They offered wise counsel I knew I could trust.

How can Taylor graduates use their unique Taylor education and its liberal arts foundational core as an asset in your discipline?

In my career field, I don’t believe a person can succeed simply by doing the same things over and over again. The field is evolving. The retail landscape is changing by the day. And it’s crucial that we constantly ask ourselves new questions and explore new possibilities. Without the ability to “think outside the box” we could easily miss the changes coming our way and not be able to adapt to them until it’s too late. Having a liberal arts background has enhanced my ability to think critically about my work. Instead of just taking one approach to a problem, I’m able to see it from a number of different angles. The variety of classes I took at Taylor broadened my viewpoint and stretched me in ways my major classes alone wouldn’t have been able to.

What advice or encouragement could you provide for Taylor students in your vocational discipline?

If you've ever considered majoring in Math, don't underestimate the doors this degree could open. In today's highly technical, data-driven world, your skills will be in high demand! Don’t worry too much about not having it all figured out upon graduation. There are some things you can’t learn until you’re out in the “real world” and that’s OK. But make sure to have at least one internship while in college (two would be better!). And if possible, take the time to study abroad, even if just for a J-Term.