MIB Alumni Spotlight: Kemari Kelly

Kemari Kelly (MIB ’26), completed his graduate business degree this past fall. He now works at Fidelity Information Services (FIS) as a business development representative in the capital markets division.

Q: Tell us about yourself

Kelly: My name is Kemari Kelly, and I’m from Jacksonville, Florida. I earned my bachelor’s degree in international affairs with a minor in business from Florida State University before pursuing my master of international business at the University of Florida’s Warrington College of Business. I’ve always been interested in understanding how businesses operate across borders and how global events influence markets. Outside of work, I enjoy sports, traveling, walking and reading.

Q: What was your undergraduate major, and why the MIB program?

Kelly: My undergraduate degree in international affairs gave me a strong understanding of global politics, economics, and international relations, but I wanted to complement that foundation with practical business knowledge. The MIB program at Warrington was the perfect fit because it combined international perspectives with finance, marketing, strategy and management. I wanted a program that would prepare me to succeed in an increasingly global business environment while opening doors to careers in finance and technology.

Q: What is your favorite thing about the MIB program, and how has the program helped you professionally?

Kelly: What I appreciated most about the MIB program was the opportunity to learn alongside like-minded professionals who were equally motivated to grow and succeed. Collaborating with classmates from diverse backgrounds challenged me to think differently, solve complex business problems and see issues from a global perspective. The coursework strengthened my analytical thinking, communication skills and confidence while exposing me to real-world business challenges through projects and case studies. Those experiences prepared me well for my current career and gave me skills that I use every day.

Q: What are your plans now that you have graduated?

Kelly: After graduating, I joined Fidelity Information Services (FIS) as a business development representative in the capital markets division. In my role, I work with financial institutions to help connect them with technology solutions that drive innovation across the financial services industry. I’m excited to continue growing my expertise in financial technology and capital markets while building a long-term career with FIS.

Q: What is your advice to other undergraduate students looking at the MIB program?

Kelly: If you’re an undergraduate student considering graduate school, I strongly encourage you to look at the master of international business program at the Warrington College of Business. The program is truly life changing. Beyond the knowledge you gain in international business, finance, marketing and strategy, you’ll develop lasting relationships with talented classmates and faculty who genuinely want to see you succeed. The experience challenged me personally and professionally, and it gave me the confidence and skills to begin my career. It is one of the best investments I have made in myself.

Q: Tell us a cool fact about you.

Kelly: One cool fact about me is that I proudly earned degrees from both Florida State University and the University of Florida. Going from a Seminole to a Gator gave me the opportunity to experience two incredible universities, and I’m grateful to be part of the alumni family at both.