Influential Woman · Higher Ed

Mayla Arceo

Vice President of Partnerships, native

Chicago, IL

1Award received

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree MBA Degree University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign Degree 2016 Degree Graduated top of class Degree Bachelor's degree in Microbiology Degree University of St. Thomas in Manila Degree Philippines Degree 2012

Her Story

About Mayla

I've been in the higher education field for nearly 20 years, and I've held VP-level positions for nearly 10 years. In my current role as VP of Partnerships, which I've been in for 3 months at a new company, I manage our partnerships with universities in the U.S. and everything that it entails. My most notable professional achievement was being instrumental in building an ed tech startup and expanding their UK footprint into the U.S., where we went from zero revenue to nearly $50 million in revenue. What really inspired me to get into this field is that I believe education and a college degree is a catalyst of social mobility that isn't accessible to a lot of people, so I want to help shape a clear path for younger students or the younger generation to get their college degree. I attribute my success to grit, resilience, and adaptability.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Mayla

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to grit, definitely resilience, and adaptability. These qualities have been essential throughout my career, especially as I've navigated building startups and expanding into new markets.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

The best career advice I ever received was that there will always be problems, there will always be challenges, and your critical thinking and problem solving shines through, and will shine through, and will take you far in your career. This advice has really stuck with me because it reminds me that challenges are inevitable, but how you approach and solve them is what truly matters and what will propel your career forward.

03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?

Whatever you do, or whatever you choose to do in your career, do it with integrity, authenticity and joy. These values will guide you through your professional journey and help you build a meaningful career that's true to who you are.

04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

The biggest challenge in my field is the perceived lack of value in a college degree, along with the inaccessibility and lack of affordability of a college degree or college experience. However, that's also where I think there is great opportunity. These challenges present a chance to reshape how we think about higher education and make it more accessible to those who need it most.

05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

The values most important to me in my work and personal life are authenticity and resilience. These guide how I approach both my professional responsibilities and my personal relationships, helping me stay true to myself while navigating challenges.

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