Alumni Spotlight: Cristina Alfaro Sheehy

Over the past 109 years, more than 200,000 individuals have graduated from Webster University around the world. Join us as we highlight their Webster stories.  
 
Meet Cristina Alfaro Sheehy, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Webster in 2009 and currently works for McKinsey & Company.

What enticed you to choose Webster University for your degree?

I chose Webster University for several reasons. Firstly, it provided the best financial aid package for my family, making it an affordable option while expanding my horizons. Additionally, its status as a small school appealed to me, offering a close-knit community and personalized attention in its classes, which allowed me to connect with all my professors. I still have professors reach out every now and then! The opportunities to study abroad through its extensive campus network were also a significant draw. Not only was I able to study in the U.S., but I also completed a semester in Europe, enriching my overall experience. Lastly, Webster's strong liberal arts curriculum and robust Political Science program aligned perfectly with my academic and professional aspirations.

How did your Webster degree help advance you in your career?

My degree from Webster University helped build my career in several ways. At Webster, I honed my research skills, ensuring my papers and projects were academically sound. This thorough and detail-oriented approach has been invaluable in the business world. While business research often differs from academic research, having a fundamentally strong research background was crucial to my success at McKinsey & Company. Key aspects such as structuring research and having an organized approach to problem-solving were integral parts of my academic experience at Webster. 
 
Additionally, I participated in the WebsterLeads program, which empowered me to take on leadership roles in projects and initiatives. This program provided the fundamental tools to become a better leader at an early age, significantly contributing to my professional development.

What is something valuable you have learned during your career?

One valuable lesson I've learned during my career is that failure is an integral part of becoming a leader. To lead effectively, one must have the patience to teach others that failure is not something to fear but a steppingstone to success. People are often afraid of failure, but my approach is to view it as a path that didn't work. Understanding why it didn't work allows you to change and learn, ultimately leading to improvement and growth. This mindset fosters resilience and continuous learning, which are essential qualities in any successful leader. 
  
Another key lesson is the importance of continuously learning and implementing innovative tools that enhance our work and impact. Keeping an updated skill set is crucial for growth, and one must always strive to understand how new tools and technologies work. This comprehensive approach to professional development ensures that you remain adaptable and effective in an ever-evolving business landscape.

What has your life journey looked like?

Throughout my professional career, I have worked in various places and roles, each contributing unique lessons and experiences. I interned at the United Nations right before my last semester at Webster University, which provided me with invaluable insights into international relations and global policymaking. Following that, I worked in the service department for a telecommunications firm, where I gained practical experience in customer service and technical support. 
  
My journey continued in the HR department of a financial services firm, where I developed a strong understanding of talent management and organizational behavior. I then transitioned to a role at a higher education institution, which allowed me to explore cooperation agreements between universities and the unique aspect of working in higher education. My career path also included a position in public relations for a non-profit organization, where I learned about the importance of advocacy and community engagement at first hand.  
  
Ultimately, I landed in the consulting world, where I have been able to leverage all these diverse experiences to provide strategic insights and solutions to clients across various industries. Each role has shaped my professional journey, equipping me with a broad skill set and a deep understanding of different sectors.

What is your favorite spot on your Webster campus? Favorite spot around the University? 

My favorite spot on the Webster campus was the Emerson Library. I loved going there and miss it daily, I wished my community had a university library like it. Libraries are incredible spaces for learning and focus, offering a quiet environment that fosters concentration and productivity. They provide access to a wealth of resources, from books and journals to digital databases, which are essential for in-depth research and academic success. The Emerson Library was a haven for me, where I could immerse myself in my studies and find the support I needed to excel academically.