This post was written by Ayanna Roberts, B.A. ’24, M.A. in Integrated Design student.
Growing up in the south suburbs of Chicago, Gamar Hayles knew he needed to build his future somewhere different. In September 2021, he moved to Baltimore hoping for the change he’d been searching for.
When it came time to continue his education, The University of Baltimore stood out to Gamar for many reasons but especially the Merrick School of Business’s AACSB accreditation and the flexibility of UBalt’s class formats. He also appreciated that many UBalt students are balancing school with career or families.
“They said it was tailored for working adults,” Gamar said. “And because I was a working adult, why not surround myself with people like me?”
Gamar had already begun building the career he wanted for himself in finance. In 2018, Gamar earned his first position out of high school with Citibank as a bank teller. From there, he advanced his position through the banking industry, eventually managing multiple branches around the southern side of Chicago.
He was on the rise even without a college degree but knew the value of one since childhood.
“My dad was able to raise four boys and still get his dual degree,” Gamar said. “So, I’m like if he can do it with kids, I could do it without any. That was a big motivator for me. And then my mom, she was able to get her associate degree to become a certified nursing assistant, running her hair salon and raising my brother and me.”
His parent’s determination inspired Gamar to earn his own degree at UBalt. He’s working toward a B.S. in Information Systems and Technology Management and a minor in Economics and Public Policy.
His program is providing valuable knowledge, hands-on projects, and practical skills in each course, he said. Also, he said, he has gained confidence and professional guidance that will support him in achieving success in any endeavor he commits to.
Gamar’s academic experiences haven’t just prepared him for his career, they have also inspired him to make a difference on campus. He combined his own experiences and academic lessons to design and lead a Financial Literacy Program event at UBalt.
The program provided students with knowledge on banking essentials, such as credit, savings and lending, through a collaborative effort between several campus groups, faculty and staff. It also included a panel with three professional bankers.
Throughout the planning process, Gamar worked closely with Elizabeth Purswani, assistant director of student engagement and inclusion, on program logistics and event coordination.
In addition to leading the Financial Literacy Program, Gamar has taken on several roles on campus that allow him to develop his leadership and stay engaged with the UBalt community. He serves as president of the Black Student Union, vice president of the Student Events Board, and member of multiple honor societies including The National Society of Leadership and Success, Omicron Delta Kappa, Helen P. Denit Honors and Beta Gamma Sigma.
“Being involved is a critical aspect to my success because I’m in an environment where I see other people being challenged to maintain their workload. When you have people in your corner, or you’re surrounded with people going through the same stuff, you motivate each other,” he said.
Gamar’s experiences in leadership, academics and professional development have shaped his career ambitions. By gaining a strong foundation in Information Systems and Technology Management and hands-on experience in finance, he plans to open his own consulting firm where he provides consulting on data and information system challenges.
After graduation, he plans to attend law school, aiming to expand his knowledge, network and professional opportunities.
“It makes me feel proud to know I’m leading and following in my family’s footsteps, continuing to represent the Hayles family. I think it’s something no one can take away. I’m really grateful, and I look forward to doing the same thing in law school,” he said.