Class of 2024 Profile: Monika Vanek

From the moment Monika Vanek set foot on Mizzou's campus as a seventh grader, she knew it was where she would eventually belong. That quiet sense of connection guided her decision to attend the university, where she found not only a strong academic foundation but a deep sense of community. As a student in the Finance Department at the Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business, Monika has honed her passion for real estate, setting ambitious career goals and embracing every challenge along the way.

In this Q&A, she reflects on her journey, the influential mentors who shaped her path and the lessons she’s learned that will guide her into the next chapter of her career in commercial real estate.

Why did you choose Mizzou?

I chose Mizzou because it felt right from the very beginning. When I first stepped on campus in seventh grade, I had this quiet sense that it was where I would end up. I couldn’t fully explain it at the time, but something about the campus and its atmosphere just made it feel like the right fit for me. As I got older and started thinking more seriously about colleges, that feeling stayed with me. It wasn’t just about the academics or the opportunities—it was about the sense of belonging and familiarity I felt here. Looking back, I’m so glad I trusted my gut because choosing Mizzou has been the best decision I’ve made so far.

What motivated you to pursue your field of study at Trulaske?

What motivated me to pursue my field of study at Trulaske was the desire to challenge myself and expand my goals. I’ve always known that I wanted to go into real estate—it’s been a long-term aspiration of mine. At the same time, attending college was another significant goal. While I knew that real estate didn’t necessarily require a college degree, I saw the opportunity to combine these ambitions and push myself further. By pursuing my education at Trulaske, I’ve been able to deepen my understanding of finance, business, and real estate, which has put me on the path to a career in commercial real estate. This field represents a step beyond what I originally envisioned, and it excites me to think about how much I’ve grown since setting those initial goals. Trulaske has provided me with the tools, knowledge, and connections to elevate my career aspirations. It’s been the perfect environment to not only build on my passion for real estate but also to prepare me for the opportunities ahead in commercial real estate.

What person at Trulaske played an instrumental role in your college experience and what lessons did you learn from that person?

It took a village to get me to where I am today, but Sharon Reed stands out as one of the most influential people in my college journey. I started working for her during my sophomore year in the advancement office, and from the very beginning, she became one of my biggest cheerleaders. What amazes me most about Sharon is her ability to face the toughest challenges with both grace and compassion. I’ve watched her take what feels like a crisis and rebuild it into a stronger, more solid foundation—often in what seems like no time at all. Despite the demands of her work, she never loses sight of the people around her, always checking in and offering unwavering support. Her dedication to both her work and those she leads is truly inspiring. From Sharon, I’ve learned the importance of balancing strength and kindness. She has shown me that true leadership is not just about solving problems or achieving goals—it’s about genuinely caring for the people who make those successes possible. Her example of compassion, resilience and selflessness is something I will carry with me far beyond my time at Trulaske.

What business class at Trulaske made the biggest impression on you and why? 

The business class at Trulaske that made the biggest impression on me was my study abroad program, where I had the chance to take a class and internship in Prague, Czech Republic. This experience was particularly meaningful because it allowed me to connect with my heritage—my dad’s entire side of the family lives in the Czech Republic. Being able to learn about my culture while studying abroad in a program fostered by Trulaske was truly unique and unforgettable. One of the biggest lessons I took away from this experience is that what’s meant for you will always find its way, and you can’t mess it up. The opportunity to study in Prague felt like it was meant to happen, giving me a chance to grow both academically and personally. It reminded me how important it is to embrace opportunities when they come your way. This class didn’t just teach me about business concepts; it gave me a deeper understanding of global perspectives and the importance of saying yes to experiences that push you outside of your comfort zone. Studying abroad was a reminder to never pass up opportunities that could lead to incredible growth and connections, both professionally and personally.

Was there an obstacle that you had to overcome while a student at Trulaske and if so, how did you overcome it?

One of the key lessons I’ve learned while overcoming obstacles is that when life feels overwhelming, that’s the time to focus the most on self-care. Maintaining good habits such as prioritizing sleep, eating well, staying active, and finding a healthy school-life balance—which has been essential in navigating challenges for me. If I were to go deeper, the biggest obstacle I’ve faced, and am still facing, is the realization that my hometown no longer feels like “home.” As I have traveled home during school breaks in the past, my hometown gave me a strong sense of comfort—it was where my immediate family lives, where I spend time with my hometown friend, and where I didn’t need GPS to get place to place. However, as I sit here reflecting and writing this over Thanksgiving break, just weeks from graduation, I’ve realized that this feeling has shifted. While everything in my hometown remains the same—my family, my friends, my favorite spots—it feels like something is missing. I’ve now realize that over my time at Trulaske, I’ve created a new sense of “home” for myself in Columbia, Missouri. This has been the most recent obstacle I am having to overcome because it represents a significant transition. As I prepare to graduate and move to a new city, I know I’ll have to build yet another “home” for myself. I’m overcoming this challenge by embracing the discomfort and reminding myself that growth comes from these moments of change. While it’s bittersweet, I see this as an opportunity to continue evolving and pursuing my goals.

What kind of leadership skills have you gained at the Trulaske College of Business?

At the Trulaske College of Business, I have developed a variety of leadership skills that have shaped my perspective and approach to working with others. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of active listening. Conversations become much more meaningful when you focus on truly hearing others instead of dominating the discussion. I’ve come to understand that the smartest person in the room often talks the least because they are busy absorbing information and observing dynamics. This mindset has helped me approach conversations with humility and curiosity. Leadership, I’ve realized, is not about having power over people but about being understanding and empathetic. A great leader prioritizes the needs of the team over personal ambitions. Decisions should always be made for the good of the group, not for selfish reasons. This perspective has helped me focus on fostering collaboration and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. Lastly, I’ve discovered the impact of positive reinforcement. Never leaving a compliment unsaid goes a long way in building strong relationships and motivating others. These leadership principles have not only helped me grow but also allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the teams and communities I’ve been a part of during my time at Trulaske.

What experience-centered learning opportunities at Trulaske have helped you the most and how will you apply them to your business career?

The experience-centered learning opportunities at Trulaske, particularly my involvement in the Heartland Scholars Academy, have been most instrumental in shaping my personal and professional growth. Being part of this program taught me that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. The environment fostered by Heartland Scholars is one of relentless encouragement, where high expectations and unwavering support pushed me to realize my potential. This experience not only helped me overcome self-doubt but also instilled in me the confidence to aim high and persevere through challenges. The mentorship of Mary Beth Marrs and Stacy Rohr has been transformative. Their advice to set ambitious goals, dream even bigger and then work tirelessly to achieve those dreams has left a lasting impact on me. Their belief in me has shown me the power of encouragement—how a simple, genuine investment in someone's potential can give them the courage to pursue greatness. It’s a gift that has been pivotal in my journey, and it is one that I will carry forward into my business career. Perhaps the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of believing in the success of others just as much as I believe in my own. The Heartland Scholars Academy emphasized that success is not a solitary endeavor—it thrives in collaboration and mutual encouragement. In my business career, I plan to champion this mindset, investing in the growth and success of my colleagues and team members. By fostering an environment of shared ambition and support, I hope to build meaningful relationships and contribute to a culture of collective achievement.

What are your favorite Mizzou memories?

One of my favorite memories at Mizzou was the unforgettable football game against K-State in 2023. I had the perfect seat—first row, 50-yard line on the home side—and I was surrounded many of my best friends. As the final seconds ticked on the clock, Harrison Mevis delivered a record-breaking 61-yard field goal, sealing the victory. What made this moment so special wasn’t just the win itself but the experience of sharing it with my closest friends and the entire Mizzou community. I’d be lying if I didn’t admit that storming the field after the win was the highlight of it all—a memory I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.

Looking back on your college career, what are the biggest lessons you’ve learned?

Looking back on my college career, the biggest lesson I’ve learned is the importance of kindness—both to others and to myself. College taught me that we never truly know what someone else might be going through at home or in their personal life, and a simple act of kindness can make a world of difference. This realization has shaped how I interact with others, reminding me to always approach situations with compassion and an open perspective. Another important lesson I’ve learned is to be mindful of the people I surround myself with. As you grow, it’s normal to outgrow relationships, even with people you care about. This doesn’t diminish their value but reflects the different paths you’re taking. Choosing to surround myself with positive, driven individuals has been one of the most impactful decisions I’ve made, even when it meant letting go. Finally, I’ve learned the importance of living in the moment and speaking kindly to myself. Time and memories are priceless—you can’t buy them back, so it’s essential to fully embrace the present. At the same time, self-compassion is key. At the end of the day, you are your own greatest ally, and the way you speak to yourself matters. These lessons have helped me grow into a more understanding, grounded, and intentional person as I prepare to take on life’s next chapter.

What advice would you give to incoming freshmen?

My advice to incoming freshmen is to say yes to as many opportunities as you can—whether it’s joining an organization, attending an event, or trying something new. These moments often lead to the best memories and personal growth. However, always stay true to your values. It’s important to embrace new experiences while letting your principles guide your decisions. College is a time for exploration and discovery, but maintaining your integrity will ensure that the memories you make are ones you can look back on without regret.

What’s next for you?

What’s next for me is an exciting period of growth and transition. After graduation, I’ll be moving to Colorado for a few months, where I plan to focus on personal development by traveling independently, skiing, and gaining new perspectives. This time will allow me to recharge and prepare for the next phase of my journey. Following that, I’ll be moving to Austin, Texas, to begin my career in commercial real estate. I’m eager to apply the knowledge and skills I’ve gained from Trulaske to build meaningful connections and make a positive impact in the industry.