By Adriana Betancourt
From leading one of NIU’s largest student organizations to earning both her bachelor’s degree and MBA in just five years, Bella Alfaro has consistently embodied what it means to lead with purpose. A two-time NIU College of Business graduate, Alfaro earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing with certificates in digital marketing and professional sales in spring 2024, followed by her MBA through our Global MBA program in spring 2025.
During her time at NIU, Alfaro didn’t just lead but represented. As president of the NIU Dance Marathon and director of marketing for Leaders in Ethics and Academic Discipline (LEAD), she combined strategy, service and storytelling to create meaningful impact across campus. Her leadership and academic excellence also earned her membership in honor societies, including Phi Kappa Phi, Mortar Board, and Beta Gamma Sigma.
Now serving as a marketing coordinator at Solberg Manufacturing, Inc., in Itasca, Illinois, Alfaro continues to apply the leadership, discipline and business strategies she developed at NIU. Her journey reflects the power of involvement, mentorship, and benefiting from each opportunity our College of Business has to offer.
Q: How did your experience in the College of Business help shape your professional journey?
A: The College of Business played a significant role in shaping my professional journey by providing the tools, knowledge and resources needed to succeed. The faculty and staff genuinely want students to thrive and are always willing to help. The concepts and skills I learned continue to guide me in meetings, conversations, decision-making and daily work tasks. As a marketing student, I was exposed to up-to-date industry practices and real-world applications, which prepared me to confidently transition into my career.
Q: Was there a mentor at NIU who played a key role in your academic or professional growth? What did you learn from them?
A: Two areas at NIU played a major role in my growth. First was the guidance and support from the staff and faculty within the Department of Management. As a student worker who later became a graduate assistant, I received support not only academically but personally. They helped me develop skills in negotiation, entrepreneurship, and event planning while also teaching me how to navigate challenges with professionalism and grace.
Another impactful experience was through the NIU Professional Sales Program. The program consistently pushed me outside of my comfort zone through role plays, mock interviews, presentations, networking events and negotiations. It taught me how to be comfortable being uncomfortable and how to confidently communicate my personal brand. I would recommend the program to any student, regardless of major, for the lifelong skills it provides.
Q: Which experiences at NIU (courses, internships, student organizations, or roles) had the biggest impact on your career development?
A: Serving as president of NIU Dance Marathon had the greatest impact on my personal and professional growth. I joined dance marathon during my freshman year and later served on the executive board as director of recruitment and director of marketing before becoming president during my junior and senior years. The NIU Dance Marathon raises funds for Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, and it was my first experience leading a large team.
My first year as president tested both my leadership and business skills. By my second year, I had developed the confidence and experience that carried directly into my corporate career. I learned how to lead a team, organize large-scale events, secure sponsorships, fund raise, and promote a mission-driven organization. During my presidency, we raised nearly $10,000. This leadership role also helped me secure a marketing internship focused on event planning and advertising.
Q: How did your transition from NIU into the professional world unfold?
A: I was intentional about gaining internship experience throughout college and focused on networking early. I completed three internships during my time at NIU and ultimately secured a full-time role with a company I had previously interned with.
My goal was to have a job secured before graduating with my master’s degree, and I achieved that. I currently work at Solberg Manufacturing Inc., where I transitioned from a marketing intern to a full-time marketing coordinator. I first connected with Solberg at the College of Business Career Fair, an event I now return to as a recruiter. After eight months in my role, I can confidently say I enjoy the work I do and continue to grow as a marketer and team member.
Q: What advice would you give College of Business students who are preparing for life after graduation?
A: Focus on building a strong résumé and sharpening your interview skills. Take advantage of networking opportunities and get comfortable stepping outside your comfort zone. Reach out to fellow Huskies working in roles or industries that interest you. The Huskie network is incredibly supportive, and alumni are often willing to connect, share advice or provide referrals.
From a recruiter’s perspective, professionalism matters. Dress appropriately, ensure your résumé is clear and easy to read, and always send a post-interview thank you note.
Q: What does being a Huskie mean to you?
A: Being a Huskie means community. It means knowing you are never alone and that people genuinely want to see you succeed. I am always willing to return to NIU to support students, and I have found that others feel the same way. All it takes is asking, and the Huskie community is ready to help.
