Alabama A&M University senior Alyvia Mallard will soon turn the page from student to professional when she graduates on December 12 during AAMU’s Fall 2025 Commencement. The marketing major from St. Louis has accepted a position as a Technology and Innovation Analyst with Truist Bank in Atlanta, beginning in July 2026.

Mallard, the first in her family to attend college in the South, said she secured the position after attending the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Leadership Institute in Washington, D.C., in October. “The biggest thing that helped me secure this role was showcasing my transferable skills from other internships and conferences I’ve attended, as well as the Deloitte Independent Study class that A&M offered in Spring 2025,” she said.

Her time on The Hill has been marked by academic success, leadership, and an impressive list of internships, including positions with the U.S. Department of Energy, Home Depot, HBCU First, Northrop Grumman, and Wells Fargo. On campus, Mallard is active in the Honors Program – serving as community service coordinator – and is also a member of Bulldog Elite, the Finance Club, and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Mallard says after attending predominantly white institutions in middle and high school, she wanted to experience the culture and community of an HBCU while also challenging herself by moving far from home. “I chose A&M specifically because it had an Honors Program and offered a very generous scholarship,” she said. “It was a leap of faith that became one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

Reflecting on her college experience, Mallard said her sophomore year was especially memorable. “That was the first time I attended the Magic City Classic. I also completed three internships and joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.,” she said. “My time on The Hill has truly been unforgettable. I’ve made lifelong friendships and achieved all of the professional and academic goals I set for myself, thanks to the foundation that AAMU has provided.”

Mallard also credits several faculty and staff for their mentorship, guidance, and support. “Dr. Tracy Gholston made learning fun and engaging, and I always looked forward to her class,” she said. “Sonya Merritt and Melanie Jones continuously encouraged me to showcase my skills and reminded me of my potential. Danielle Daniels was a listening ear whenever things became overwhelming, and Mrs. Carla Holloway always advocated for students in the Honors Program and made sure we had access to every opportunity possible. Without Mrs. Holloway, I probably wouldn’t have accomplished half of what I have during my time at A&M.”

After graduation, Mallard plans to earn her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and eventually start a nonprofit organization that focuses on financial literacy, wealth building, and career coaching for underserved communities.

Although she will soon begin a new chapter in Atlanta, Mallard said she will always stay connected to her alma mater. “I’ll definitely be back for Homecoming and other big events,” she said.

She offers this advice to students considering AAMU, “Always advocate for yourself and go above and beyond in everything that you do. There are plenty of faculty and staff on campus who have the resources to make your dreams a reality. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and seize every opportunity presented to you. If you can envision it, it’s attainable.”