12.18.24

Wichita State student finds support for her career ambitions

Kyla Gordon knew her ambitions didn’t fit the typical 9-to-5. While her peers aim for corporate offices, her culinary passion led her on a different route: an aspiring restaurant owner. She decided to pursue management at Wichita State to turn this dream into reality. But as a first-generation student, she worried about the uncertainties of college. Fortunately, she found a supportive community on campus to help her along the way.

“Before college, I had never dealt with much money, so the costs of college were scary,” said Gordon.

This financial intimidation led her to seek guidance from the Office of Financial Aid. There, she found a safe space to voice her concerns and discuss her finances. With help from them and her parents, Gordon learned effective budgeting that made overwhelming college expenses manageable.

Beyond financial assistance, college introduced Gordon to mentorships. These vital relationships have supported her academic success and career growth. Through the WSU Foundation and Alumni Engagement’s Shocker Pride Scholarship, she connected with Ramon Emmart ‘15, who provided her with professional insights and guidance in building essential business skills.

“I didn’t know about cover letters until coming to college,” she said, “but Ramon taught me the importance of selling yourself to target the right job.”

Outside of the classroom, Gordon has sought hands-on learning opportunities to apply her education and set her up for her career in restaurants. During summers, she works at her dad’s business in Colorado to develop her management skills, getting a behind-the-scenes experience of what goes into running a business. She has also found her part-time job as a Chick-fil-A employee to be incredibly beneficial; unlike many food service workers, she feels the role is preparing her for her future career.

“Chick-fil-A gives me work experience in the hospitality industry, focusing on the customer side of business,” she explained. “By working my way up the ladder at Chick-fil-A, I can apply what I learn to my future business and feel confident running it.”

Although it may be years before she opens a restaurant, Gordon is ready to take on the endeavor. She graduates in spring 2025 and plans to use what she’s learned to gain more experience in hospitality management. Through her hard work, she is confident in pursuing her entrepreneurial dreams.