Meet Mackenzie Murray: Our November Leading Woman

Name: Mackenzie Murray

Major: Business Marketing with a Psychology Minor

Hometown: Columbia, MO

What are your career goals?

After conducting international marketing research for my internship, I am hoping to land a job within the alcohol industry in the field of brand marketing, consumer product and insights or market research to gain global insights on expansion amongst the global alcohol industry.

What are you involved in at Mizzou?

Vice President of Pledge Education for Delta Sigma Pi Professional Business Fraternity and

Philanthropy/Fundraising Director for Kappa Alpha Theta

Tell us about your adventure last summer!

Last summer I had the experience of a lifetime to not only study abroad in Bergamo, Italy, but also land an internship with MU International Trade Center in Prague, Czech Republic.

Studying abroad near the Italian Alps was a beautiful experience. I along with sixty other University of Missouri students enjoyed a cross-cultural experience in classes composed of MU and Italian students working together on projects. I appreciated learning about international marketing with classes taught by American professors and Italian professors. The Italian courses emphasized European and Italian business practices and gauged thoughtful discussions of global marketing implications.

Being able to work with incredible MU ITC staff and other members abroad was an impeccable opportunity both personally and professionally. Upon completion of my internship, my team and I were able to provide international market research that will aid Mid-Missouri companies in the identification of global trade opportunities, and provided actionable information that will assist with potential market entry expansion decisions.

What's your favorite thing that you're involved in and why?

Definitely Delta Sigma Pi! I love surrounding myself with others that have the same passion for business as myself, and the friendships I have made will last a lifetime. I wouldn’t have had the courage to apply for the internship and wouldn’t have gotten to go on this amazing adventure throughout Europe if it weren’t for my fellow brothers in DSP!

What are you passionate about?

I am passionate about helping others and serving throughout my community. I enjoy giving back by serving at the Central Missouri Humane Society, the Food Bank, Special Olympics, Russel Elementary and reading to the students of my grade school Our Lady of Lourdes Interparish School.

What's your favorite thing about Theta/what does Theta mean to you?

Theta to me is being surrounding by all of the influential women who support you and lift you up in every aspect of life. Through the ups and downs, these women will be there for you no matter what, and that is what makes being a Theta so special. I am so proud to call myself a Theta and be a part of an amazing group of leading women.

Do you have a specific favorite Theta memory?

Holy moly there are so many to choose from! I have enjoyed having dance parties which have turned into late night talks, movie and spa nights with my friends while living in house. Another special memory is being able to share the Theta ideals and bonds with my high school best friend who joined a Theta chapter at Iowa University.

What do you do in your free time?

It is very rare that I get free time, but when I do I love spending it with friends and family. I think that investing time in others is very important and essential to a happy life. I also love reading books, spending time with my dog and having spa nights with my friends!

Anything else you'd like to add?

Don’t be afraid to push yourself outside of your comfort zone and do things that terrify you. Some of my greatest memories and accomplishments have been from doing things that make me feel uncomfortable.