Career Journey:
Shelley Hunter, a BYU Information Systems alumna, has crafted an impressive career in the world of FinTech. After earning her BS in Information Systems, she spent 11 years as a programmer/analyst at Bank of America and Chevron Information Technology Company, gaining valuable experience in payment processing and credit cards. This unexpected expertise became the foundation of her next big move—launching her own consumer advocacy and gift card business. In 2013, Giftcards.com acquired her site, and Shelley continued her work there even after Blackhawk Network, the world’s largest gift card company, acquired Giftcards.com in 2016. Seven years later, Shelley now brings her wealth of knowledge to her new role on the IS Career Services team, guiding students and early-career professionals through their own career journeys.
Reflecting on her path, Shelley shares, "I didn’t set out to have a career in payments, but every step prepared me for the next one. It’s all part of the process."
Advice for IS students:
Shelley advises students to “trust the process. Every success and setback leads you to become the person God knows you will be. Rejection is God’s protection—it’s not personal but a sign of better things ahead.”
Most rewarding experience in her career:
After her time in FinTech, Shelley made a bold decision—to step away from the traditional workforce and be unapologetically present with her children. During this period, she worked as a freelancer, tackling a variety of remote projects, from programming and systems analysis to even designing plush toys for the U.S. Post Office. These diverse experiences, she notes, helped her build the exact skill set needed to thrive in her new role in digital marketing when she returned to work full-time for Giftcards.com.
Shelley emphasizes that her path was unique and encourages others to pursue their own with personal conviction, saying, “Whether you work, stay home, or do both, make it a matter of prayer and personal revelation. It will all work out for your good.”
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
"Any beach, anywhere—just not a lake that people call a beach!"
Favorite Quote:
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
Favorite Hobby:
"I love to play tennis. If there are any (old? elderly? seasoned?) lady tennis players at BYU, let me know."
Shelley is passionate about helping students and early-career professionals as they navigate their own career paths. She would love to meet with IS students, offer guidance, and share her insights from the FinTech and digital marketing worlds. Don’t hesitate to reach out!
10-18-2024
