Hayley Miller

As a proud CU Boulder alum with a Finance degree from Leeds, I launched my career in private equity, specializing in large-scale commercial real estate investments. Later, I took on leadership roles in asset management at Westfield in Los Angeles, guiding teams through the challenges of COVID and driving post-merger strategy at the executive level.

Boulder is an incredible place to study, but transitioning from the "Boulder Bubble" to high-level finance can be challenging. I’ve been through that journey and know what it takes to succeed. My goal as a mentor is to help you refine the technical skills and strategic thinking that will set you apart, not just as a good hire, but as an exceptional one.

My advice to students...

My biggest advice is to meet with as many people as possible early in your career. There are countless roles and paths that you won’t discover in school or online. Conversations with professionals help you understand the day-to-day responsibilities and expand your knowledge. Always approach your career with a growth mindset—continually learning and absorbing information is what sets great professionals apart.

The more people you meet, the clearer your path becomes. Networking will help you build the career you want, and those connections can open doors you never expected. Say "yes" to every opportunity, no matter how small. These informal meetings can change the entire trajectory of your life. No one succeeds alone—lean on those you know, and actively seek to meet those who can help you grow.