The AlumNow series showcases former students’ post-graduation successes.
We recently caught up with Mildred Oliva, who is now a relationship banker at Bank of America. Read about how her educational journey at Dallas ISD impacted her to give back to her community.
What high school did you graduate from and what year did you graduate?
Innovation Design Entrepreneurship Academy at James W. Fannin in 2020.
What is your current occupation?
I’m a relationship banker at Bank of America.
What made your Dallas ISD education unique?
In my sophomore year of high school, I was at an innovative school that helped us get internships. Thanks to them, I was able to make connections with the All Stars Project of Dallas and later on the Year Up program. I was also the superintendent scholar for my graduating class. My teachers and principal always believed in me.
What are some career or personal highlights/accomplishments?
I just received a Pinnacle Award for the year 2023 for the work that I do at Bank of America. Another personal accomplishment for me is when I assist clients in understanding how to budget their money or build credit so they can get a loan or buy a home.
Each client I assist reminds me of how hard my parents worked and how they didn’t know that most of the options offered at banks were there to help them with our education or living situation. I graduated with my Bachelor of Business Administration in December 2023 at the University of North Texas at Dallas.
Who was your favorite Dallas ISD teacher or what was your favorite course?
I have so many favorite Dallas ISD teachers, but my favorites were Ms. Phillips and Mr. Lee.
Ms. Phillips taught computer science classes and coding to students. She pushed every single student to better themselves. She still emails me to ask how I am and I update her for every milestone. She cares so much about her students.
Math was my favorite course, thanks to Mr. Lee. He made geometry fun and always helped his students. Mr. Lee still helps my younger sister with her math problems in college and offers math books to her.
What are your responsibilities as a relationship banker at Bank of America?
I assist and educate clients about their finances. I work to ensure clients understand banking and help them reach their financial goals. Most of the clients in the area I work need assistance buying a home, starting credit, or start saving for their kids’ education, and I’m there to help!
What advice, if any, would you offer to students who are interested in your career field?
My advice is to make connections and listen to your teachers. Go to a school that offers dual credit, internships, or a program that fits what you love! In my specific career field, I would say, you have to have the passion to help your community. At my job, I love to help clients get back on track with their financial goals.
