The Sales Program at the Busch School of Business prepares students to enter competitive industries with strong business skills and a clear sense of purpose. For alumna Devon Anastasio, that experience helped launch a fast-moving career in technology sales at Qlik.
Anastasio reflects on how her time at the Busch School shaped the way she approaches business today. “My time at the Busch School shaped how I view business — as a driver of both performance and positive impact.” Through the Sales Program, she gained early exposure to professional selling and developed key business skills. “Through the Sales Program, I built a strong foundation in business fundamentals and professional selling, and realized I was drawn to roles where performance is measurable and impact is visible.”
After graduating, Anastasio began her career at Qlik as a Lead Development Representative. “After graduating, I joined Qlik as a Lead Development Representative, where I sharpened my discovery skills, outbound strategy, and learned how to coordinate across teams and bring in the right resources at the right time.” Her strong performance quickly opened the door to larger responsibilities. “Within a year, I advanced to Mid Market Account Executive, leading full sales cycles across Pennsylvania and New York.” She continued to grow within the company soon after. “In under two years with the company, I was promoted to Enterprise Account Executive, now partnering with enterprise organizations in New Jersey to solve complex data challenges and build long term strategic relationships.”
When asked what contributed to this rapid progress, Anastasio points to a clear mindset. “Consistency, Coachability, and Ownership.” She treated her first role as a chance to build the skills needed for the next step. “I treated the LDR role like an apprenticeship for becoming an AE.” That approach pushed her to constantly improve. “What can I be doing today to go be an AE tomorrow?”
Her work was recognized when she received Rookie of the Year at SKO 2026. “Being named Rookie of the Year at SKO 2026 meant a lot to me because it represented more than an individual award.” The recognition strengthened her commitment to maintaining strong habits and high standards. “For me, the award is not a finish line-- it is a signal to keep elevating and sustaining my performance.”
Anastasio credits the Busch School’s Sales Program with preparing her for the realities of a sales career. “Through role plays, competitions, and structured feedback, I became comfortable being uncomfortable.” Those experiences continue to influence how she approaches conversations with clients and new challenges in her role.
Her advice to current students is direct: “Start before you feel ready. Seek discomfort.” As she explains, “The connections you build at CUA can open doors you never expected. And stay humble enough to keep learning."