Davis Clarke '19 Goes Viral

Posting on social media about his day-to-day life—commuting in Boston on the T, working out, chatting with friends—2019 Isenberg finance alumnus Davis Clarke has made a name for himself by promoting positivity and looking to the future. Clarke, who works as a capital management manager at Citizens, was excited to answered a few questions about his time at Isenberg.

“I am thankful for how Isenberg and UMass made it possible!” he says. “My only goal is to help people and I am happy to give back however possible.” He also recently visited the Isenberg Real Estate Club to talk to students.

How did your time at Isenberg prepare you to be in the social media spotlight?

Professor Bruce Weinberg helped me start my Instagram account as part of his Marketing 301 class's YouBrand project. The assignment was to show the world the values that I care about. This project effectively continues today as I try to exemplify my three core values of helping others, doing the right thing, and enjoying life every day! Professor Weinberg still guides me today and has provided insights since he was the advisor for my Residential Academic Program during my freshman year.

Can you tell us about one of your favorite classes you had while at Isenberg?

Honestly, I enjoyed all my classes because there were lots of great people who made them fun, and I was interested in the topics. I was intrigued by the math-heavy finance classes like international finance and derivatives. However, the small classes like my senior year thesis class, led by Professor Sanjay Nawalkha, and my Residential Academic Program class, led by Professor Weinberg, allowed me to learn the most from the people around me. I also have to give special credit to Marketing 301 because it was an amazing class that laid the foundation for my social media journey and taught key concepts that I use today.

What memorable experiences did you have while you were here?

I had lots of great experiences at UMass, but it was truly special my senior year because my younger brothers, Brennan and Evan, were in their sophomore and first years respectively. I would see them all around, whether it was class, the dining halls, gyms, and more, and we would hang out with the same friends. There are stories and memories that we will be talking about for the rest of our lives.

Who was your favorite Isenberg professor?

Professor Weinberg has gone above and beyond to share advice on marketing, biking, and more. The whole Weinberg family is amazing, and they all continue to help me today.

Are you still engaged with your Isenberg friends and fellow alumni?

Definitely, I have lots of awesome friends from UMass who I hang out with now and we also go after projects and opportunities together. They get me fired up whether it is hanging out or going after a challenge together. They have also recommended many activities that have changed my life for the better. Also, by being in the Boston area, I run into people from UMass constantly and it is one great community.

What would you say to current Isenberg students about balancing a full-time job with being an influencer?

I am still doing the same things that I always do, and my only goal is to help people. I am a regular person and do not consider myself an influencer because I just try to capture my life as it unfolds. I only had friends and family following me until a few months ago, and I will always try to do the right thing.

What advice do you have for recent graduates to lock in and stay positive looking towards their futures?

Life is going to be great, and you will be surrounded by genuinely good people! I try to keep my mind open to the advice that I receive, and it has led me to many adventures that I never imagined. I enjoy my work a lot and it is always good to work with teammates. I believe in you all and I know that you all will do great things!