This week’s Spotlight features Analyst James Reston. James joined CFAR a little over a year ago after graduating from Boston College with a BS in both Management, with a concentration in Finance, and Economics. He applies his prior experience in operations, sales, and project management to better understand client needs and maximize project team effectiveness. Click here to read his full biography.
First and last name
James Reston.
What is your role at CFAR?
Analyst.
How long have you been with CFAR?
A little over a year now.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy how much I am exposed to in my role on any given day. I feel like each day is something new, and presents a unique opportunity to learn and develop.
What are three words you would use to describe CFAR?
Helpful, thoughtful, and passionate.
What motivates you to go to work?
Working with so many great people. I get to work with some of the most intelligent and experienced people that I have ever met, and getting to work and learn alongside them is truly and honor.
What has been your favorite memory at CFAR?
Probably each offsite that I have been a part of. It is so great to see everyone in person and get the chance to catch up outside of the usual workday. Getting to see everyone from Philadelphia and others that I don’t normally see is always really nice!
In five words or less, what advice would you give for others in your profession?
Everything is a learning opportunity.
What book are you currently reading right now?
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead.
If you could gain a new skill in 10 minutes, what would it be?
I think I would want to learn how to code. It not only seems like an increasingly relevant skill, but also an interesting way to think about problems and how to solve them.
What is one thing that made you smile recently?
Recently, I had the chance to bring some of my friends from Boston to my small hometown in the Finger Lakes. Showing them around and seeing them enjoy the same things that I did growing up definitely made me smile.
If you could choose anyone as a mentor, who would it be and why?
I think I would choose my father and grandfather. Both of them are role models for me, and have worked together in a family business for 20 years. I think I would learn lots not only about their trade and business, but also what it means to be family.
How do you define success?
I think that success in anything is being proud of what you have accomplished. If you can look back and say that you have given it all you’ve got, and you’re happy with your outcome, then I would say you’re pretty successful.