Meet Emil Khalil, Financial Analyst, Purina Animal Nutrition and part of Land O'Lakes rotational program. Emil is a recent graduate of the University of Minnesota, Carlson School of Management, where he majored in finance.

When did you first hear about the role?

When I was doing my bachelors at the U of M, one of my friends told me about Land O’Lakes and the finance rotational program offered to new hires. I was interested in a rotational program as a way to start my career due to the broad experience that it offered to build my skills and business acumen. I found the opportunity on the university jobs board. I made sure to introduce myself to the Land O’Lakes recruiters at the career fair and express my interest in the opportunity.

Do you remember your first day in your program? What was it like?

Although I was quite nervous on my first day, I had a great team and manager that I could lean on. Everyone was very kind and welcoming. Folks were always willing to answer my questions and having that great team was very encouraging for the journey ahead.

Why did you choose to start your career at Land O’Lakes?

I had heard great things about the company throughout my time at the university. I was also very passionate about agriculture and I knew that this was a field that would have profound impacts on so many people. I wanted to be at a place where I knew I would make a positive impact on people’s lives and Land O’Lakes fulfilled that goal.

What is your advice for current students as they start to narrow down career choices?

As you look to narrow down your career aspirations, always remember that it’s a matter of balance, preparedness, and flexibility. Balance because you have to find the right opportunity that is based on the things that you prioritize (whether that be a certain salary/pay, a specific work-life balance, company culture, etc., and there are always trade-offs). Preparedness is important because you have to do certain things through your college experience to prepare you for the role that you will be seeking. Relevant internships and on-campus involvement in student organizations are two great ways to be prepared for your first role. Finally, flexibility is important because no matter how much you plan, life always throws you curveballs. Being flexible will allow you to pivot when things may not go according to plan.