By Adriana Betancourt
Damien Maldonado, is a proud first-generation college student whose entrepreneurial mindset was shaped long before stepping into the NIU College of Business. He was inspired at an early age by his father, who is a business owner. Maldonado grew up witnessing what hard work, risk-taking and self-belief truly look like. For over a decade, he has helped operate his family’s business, gaining firsthand experience in leadership, resilience, and the realities of running a small business.
That foundation sparked a deeper vision for Maldonado at NIU. He has fully embraced opportunities that push him beyond his comfort zone attending nearly every career fair, competing in the De La Vega Pitch Competition multiple times, and immersing himself in organizations like Supporting Opportunities for Latinos (SOL) and Sigma Lambda Beta (SLB) International Fraternity, Inc.
Now Maldonado is pursuing his Global MBA, He continues building toward his long-term dream of becoming a pilot and launching his own aviation company. His dedication in excellence has already led to historic milestones becoming the first Latino to join Project Flex in its decade of existence. Grounded in family values and strengthened by the NIU College of Business community, he is committed not only to building his own legacy but being able to return one day to uplift the next generation of Huskies.
Q: Growing up with a father who owns a business, how did that shape your mindset toward entrepreneurship?
A: For over a decade, I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to help my father operate a family business he created – CHICAGOMIDWESTMADE. The challenges and experiences I gained are invaluable, being able to obtain years of experience and running a small business in America. Most importantly, my father broke the cycle of a nine-to-five career, inspiring me to work for myself and become an employer.
Q: You’ve attended nearly every career fair and consistently put yourself out there. Where does that drive come from?
A: During my undergraduate education, I attended all career fairs because I knew I wanted firsthand experience in larger corporations. Initially it was not an easy task, I felt nervous and unprepared to speak with people in positions of power. With an open mindset and determination to find an internship or job, I was eager to put myself out there and network with everyone. To eliminate nerves, I prepared my personal brand, making sure my résumé was up to date, refining my elevator pitch and dressing professionally. After attending numerous career fairs and practicing my networking skills throughout my educational journey, I am now confident in presenting myself.
Q: What advice would you give students who feel hesitant to attend networking events?
A: Networking is a vital skill that helps you connect with people. While attending college, passing our classes is the bare minimum. Being involved and expanding your network will help you gain the most out of your college experience. There are many individuals like yourself who may be thinking they are all alone. This is not the case; we are surrounded by a community that pushes us to do our best.
Q: How has being involved in organizations like SOL and Sigma Lambda Beta shaped your college experience?
A: Being involved in campus organizations, clubs and even jobs create the pathway to building a strong network. There are involvement fairs that are held to introduce the organizations to the student body. These events are informative and enjoyable to attend. My path started with Supporting Opportunities for Latinos (SOL). This organization practiced professionalism, teaching young men how to prepare for life after college. After careful selection, I chose a brotherhood that chose me, Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity Incorporated. Our organization is based on true brotherhood; we build lifelong relationships and treat each other like family. I am grateful to have become a brother of Sigma Lambda Beta, and I encourage students to take advantage of a once in a lifetime opportunity like this.
Q: What does representation and empowerment mean to you as a Latino leader on campus?
A: As a first-gen college student, I am extremely proud of my accomplishments and the impact I’ve been able to make on campus. With my involvement in the College of Business, a residential community advisor, alumni advisor for SLB, and graduate assistantship with Project Flex, my Latino presence has been a huge part of my experience. For me, being a Latino always meant “work hard.” I’m slowly changing that narrative to “work smart.”
Q: You’ve mentioned wanting to become a pilot and eventually start your own aviation company. How does your business education support that dream?
A: Throughout my undergraduate career, I’ve been introduced to marketing and sales classes that have helped me understand the importance of creating my professional brand. Marketing a product or service can be a challenge; the NIU school of business has engraved these concepts and learning theories into our classroom experiences. My marketing background will help me present and pitch a business plan for my future aviation company. Many people have great ideas, but those who create the value of a business are key.
There are also opportunities for cross–functional, real-world experiences offered at NIU. Partnerships with recognized companies value the insight that can be found through the collaboration of NIU business students. After completing my bachelor’s degree in marketing in May 2025, I enrolled in the Global MBA program here at NIU. Little did I know this was an accelerated program that can be completed in one year! I am on track to graduate with my MBA this May 2026, I made the decision to get my master’s to broaden my understanding and background knowledge in business operations and management.
This program has been super beneficial and reinforces the key concepts of running a business. Upon completion of my MBA in May 2026, I am exploring my next opportunities. I am applying for roles, as well as a possible Ph.D. in instructional technology, which is also offered here at NIU. The education setting here at NIU has been heartwarming and what I call my second home. The NIU school of business has kept my inspiration alive on becoming an entrepreneur and starting something of my own. I value the community here because everyone is welcoming and willing to work hard. Thank you, NIU!
Q: You’ve competed multiple times in the De La Vega Pitch Competition. What keeps you coming back?
A: The De La Vega Pitch competition is an amazing opportunity to showcase an innovative idea and potentially win grant seed money to invest into the business. As a creative, I constantly develop new business ideas. The program supports my visions and guides our process through workshops and seminars. I am very grateful for the De La Vega Innovation Incubator program. This April will be my third year competing in the competition. Over the years, I have been able to see the growth of the pitch competition, adding more workshops, an increase in prize seed money, and higher participation. I constantly encourage others to join. It’s an amazing experience that prepares you for future business endeavors, molding research, presentation, and entrepreneurial skills.
Q: How has the College of Business pushed you to think differently?
A: The college of business has pushed me to think differently by offering entrepreneurial competitions. These allow the students to gather outside scheduled classes and apply our skills either on a team or individual, aiming towards a common goal. In addition, there are amazing professors that connect with students and care about their future goals and careers. With amazing open-minded professors and a strong syllabus, the college has supported my overarching lifelong goals. There are infinite resources to help you achieve success.
