“One quality that I learned from the club that I carry with me day-to-day is to always be yourself. The club allowed me to try so many activities and offered numerous opportunities that made me who I am today. ”
—Neandra Fernandes, BGCB Aluma and Sales & Relationship Management Coordinator, MFS Investments
In this month’s Alumni Spotlight, Neandra Fernandes, an alum of Berkshire Partners Blue Hill Club, shares her favorite memories and most valuable lessons learned as a member.
Fast Facts
- Name: Neandra Fernandes
- Club: Berkshire Partners Blue Hill Club
- Years attended: 2005-2017
- Current occupation: Client Service Associate at MFS Investment Management
- Favorite Club activities: Basketball travel team, Keystone, Junior Staff
- Club/Team Involvement: Ready to Work, Junior Staff, Keystone, Girls Group and Young Leaders, Travel Basketball, 2016 Bartholomew A. Brickley Award Recipient
In her own words
What qualities and skills did you learn from your Club that you carry with you day-to-day?
One quality that I learned from the club that I carry with me day-to-day is to always be yourself. The club allowed me to try so many activities and offered numerous opportunities that made me who I am today. The Club gave me the confidence to walk into any space and be proud of who I am and what I have to offer. This is so important, especially in the industry that I work in today because it can be intimidating at times. However, thanks to the club I remind myself in those moments what I am capable of and it pushes me to keep going despite any challenges I encounter.
Neandra Fernandes, BGCB alumna, Howard University Class of 2021
Who is a mentor that made an impact in your life, and how?
If I am completely honest, there is not one person I can single out which I think is the beauty of the Club. Everyone you meet truly impacts your life, whether they’ve known you for many years or a couple of months. The club is home to me because everyone in the building feels like family. There are many people that I can reach out to for advice, a helping hand or just encouragement and I am so grateful to have a place like the Club in my life.
What advice do you have for younger members?
Don’t be afraid to take risks and to be a sponge. There will be many opportunities at the club that may seem “scary” at first, but being able to take those risks and get to learn what your likes/dislikes are at such a young age will set you apart from others. It is okay to try something and not like it and you never know what other doors may open by you trying something outside of your comfort zone. Soak up all the information and opportunities that you can, like a sponge.
