Jordan Leuenberger’s interest in technology and project management was rooted in his childhood. Growing up, he watched his father work as a project manager and structural engineer at a construction company in California.
“He exemplified reliability and dedication,” said Leuenberger, a senior at Syracuse University’s School of Information Studies. “Observing his work inspired me to pursue a career in project management. My passion for technology also stems from my father’s influence. He introduced me to video games at a young age, fostering an early interest.”
As Leuenberger got older, building PCs with friends deepened his comfort level with technology and cemented his love for the field. When it came time to choose a college, Syracuse University was an easy choice. He was first introduced to SU at a college fair in high school and soon decided to enroll and get a bachelor’s degree in Information Management and Technology.
“The campus’s appearance, the variety of majors offered and the overall atmosphere captivated me instantly,” he said. “I was completely in love with the school’s spirit and aesthetic.”
This past summer, Leuenberger completed a 12-week internship at Visa Inc. in Cleveland, Ohio. As a Direct Implementation Undergraduate Intern, he thrived in the fast-paced environment, where collaboration was key.
One of the highlights was a six-week project where a cross-regional team of interns tackled Visa’s core question: How can AI-driven products and services elevate individuals and businesses globally? They focused on enhancing Visa Spend Clarity’s Dashboards by integrating an AI chatbot designed for small business consulting.
“This experience provided a valuable opportunity to apply my Syracuse education to real-world challenges,” he said. “From presenting findings to collaborating effectively, I honed my abilities in a professional environment. The internship deepened my understanding of the payments industry and introduced me to Visa’s exceptional leadership principles, which I am eager to incorporate into my final semester at Syracuse.”
With graduation on the horizon, Leuenberger’s goal is to work in the field of information management and data analytics, with an emphasis in project management. He credits Syracuse for preparing him for a career in technology.
“My aspiration is to become a strategic leader, capable of not only managing complex projects but also innovating new roles that drive business value,” he said. “Syracuse has equipped me exceptionally well for the future. The university’s abundant resources, including career services and dedicated academic advising, have been invaluable.”
If he could offer any advice to his fellow students, he would encourage them to take full advantage of the iSchool’s resources.
“Schedule time to speak with professors. Be proactive in engaging with career services and your academic advisor. Explore clubs and organizations like Kappa Theta Pi or the Nexis Lab to expand your network,” he said. “Most importantly, take pride in the iSchool and make the most of everything it has to offer because the faculty is there to help you succeed.”