From Handshake to Hired: How One Message Launched Hailey Herbst’s Career at Rylo Finance

For business administration student Hailey Herbst, the path to a blossoming career started with a single notification.

After attending several Career Services workshops at Brightpoint, Hailey decided to put her new skills to the test and build a Handshake profile. Handshake is the college's online tool for connecting students with local employers looking to hire. 

Just one month later, an unexpected message landed in her inbox from Rylo Finance, a Midlothian-based accounting firm.

“I was surprised that a company would reach out to me personally!” Hailey said. “But it was super easy to connect with them, and I was working within a couple of weeks.”

The Perfect Match

Chrissy Plemmons, director of client accounting services at Rylo, sent that  message and from their first conversation, was impressed with Hailey. 

“She is a great addition to the team,” Chrissy said. “Hailey is proactive, takes excellent notes, and doesn't assume how something should be done.”

As a part-time bookkeeper, Hailey assists with data entry, organization, and accounting at Rylo. 

“I get to work with several amazing accountants who teach me something new every day, and who are willing to let me practice the skills I learn in school,” Hailey said. She’s not just crunching numbers, she’s getting a front-row seat to her future profession.

A Win-Win

Rylo Finance has been eager to support Hailey as she builds her career as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), as they see a long-term spot for her at the company. Hailey will continue to work at Rylo after she graduates from Brightpoint in June and transfers to VCU to pursue a bachelor’s degree in accounting. 

“We are so thrilled with her progress and learning,” Chrissy said.  

Amy Shutts, Career Services Coordinator at Brightpoint, helps link student ambition with local opportunities. Amy and her team organize career fairs and host workshops about career planning and networking, like the ones Hailey attended. 

“Hailey's initiative paid off in the best possible way,” Amy said. “Not only is she building a robust resume, she's enhancing real-world skills.”

So what’s the first step for students who want to follow Hailey’s lead, according to Amy? 

“Make a Brightpoint Handshake profile–and don’t forget to check your inbox.”