Spotlights: Eboni Gentry
Bio: I am originally from Washington, D.C. I have always had a love for entertainment, animals, and cars. After being admitted into Arizona State University, joining the Black Business Student Association where I first learned about the Ford Minority Dealer Operations Program, and working at both Lexus and BMW dealerships, my interest in the automotive industry peaked. Not only am I a Management major in the W.P. Carey School of Business, but I am also a part of the Certificate program for Automotive Entrepreneurs and Leaders. This past summer I completed my first year MDO internship with Ford Motor Company in Smyrna, Ga. After having the wonderful opportunity to work with the owner of Wade Ford, Mr. Steve Ewing, I have decided to relocate upon graduation to Atlanta, Georgia, to continue the four year portion of the MDO Program, ultimately becoming a dealer for Ford Motor Company. I am truly thankful for the great opportunity and skills that the MDO Program has provided me with.
An Interview with Eboni
- Q:
- What have you enjoyed the most about your experience?
- A:
- I have enjoyed everything about this experience. Having the opportunity to get "hands-on" training in each department of a dealership has been crucial in my understanding of how a dealership runs.
- Q:
- What would you recommend to incoming students?
- A:
- My recommendation to all incoming students is to come into this experience with an open mind. Be ready to work hard and make the most of each day. Last but not least, have fun! Though my internship was hard work and sometimes very tiring, I managed to enjoy every part of it and found the fun in every experience and task I had to complete.
- Q:
- How are you going to use what you have learned in future career endeavors?
- A:
- Everything I learned during this internship will aid me as I travel down the path to owning Ford dealerships. I have gained knowledge and skills that will help me to be successful within the automotive industry. I have even learned a lot about my own strengths and weaknesses. I know that I have learned and have gained valuable knowledge and have met many people who have become very influential in my pursuit of becoming a dealer.