Rising Through Retail: A Walmart Leader’s Journey to Graduation with UF Online

Building a Leadership Foundation from Teenager to Manager 

Arroyo’s journey in retail started at 16 when he accepted a temporary summer job at Walmart. By the time he was 18, he had earned a promotion to support manager, making him one of the youngest leaders in his store’s history. While many of his classmates were still figuring out their career paths, Arroyo was already managing second-shift operations as a high school student.  

Arroyo credits his mentors in Walmart operations and management for helping him navigate the challenges of managing teams at a young age. With their guidance, he developed a leadership style grounded in ownership and empathy, which he continues to apply today.  

“One lesson I’ve learned and try to live by is that ownership is everything,” he said. “When you take ownership, whether in your academics or in the workplace, others feel it. It changes the culture and drives results.” 

As Arroyo’s career advanced, so did his leadership responsibilities. He took on progressively demanding roles at Walmart, such as overseeing HR operations for more than 300 associates and leading retention efforts that reduced turnover at his store by 60%. Most recently, he embraced a new challenge: managing a Walmart Vision Center. “I was able to learn quickly and lead effectively, helping turn the business trajectory around within 90 days,” he said. 

From the Sales Floor to the UF Online Classroom 

After years of advancing in retail leadership, Arroyo knew it was time to earn a degree that matched his evolving role and responsibilities. He chose the University of Florida’s online business degree program for its academic reputation, industry-aligned curriculum, and flexibility so he could continue working full-time.  

UF Online’s structure allowed Arroyo to pursue his degree without stepping away from his full-time role at Walmart. “Balancing full-time leadership with academic studies required discipline, structure, and unwavering commitment. UF Online’s adaptable format made it possible for me to learn at my own pace, even as my weekly work schedule shifted constantly,” he said. Having a strong support system throughout his studies, including his girlfriend, parents, brothers, family and friends, also kept him motivated and grounded as he worked toward his goals. 

Beyond business education, UF Online helped Arroyo deepen his commitment to service and mentorship. “Retail isn’t just a job—it’s a platform for purpose,” he said. “I’ve witnessed how it can transform lives, build communities, and develop future leaders. UF Online has fundamentally shaped how I approach leadership. The academic foundation strengthened my analytical skills, sharpened my financial acumen, and enhanced my ability to drive results through data-informed decisions.” 

Recognition and Growth through the NRF Foundation’s CVS Health Scholarship 

Arroyo earned national recognition and a $10,000 scholarship in 2024 for his dedication and leadership. The NRF Foundation, the charitable arm of the world’s biggest retail trade association, awarded him the CVS Health Scholarship, spotlighting him as a rising retail star. The application process was rigorous, requiring a written essay, a video submission, and a clear articulation of his vision for the future of retail. “Being selected as a 2024 recipient was an incredible honor,” Arroyo said. “It was deeply rewarding to have my leadership recognized at a national level among peers and executives who shared my passion for shaping the future of retail.” 

As part of the award, Arroyo attended Retail’s Big Show in New York City, one of the industry’s top events. He met with executives, thought leaders, and other scholarship recipients to talk about innovation, sustainability, and the future of retail leadership. 

“Career paths in retail are rarely linear—adaptability and continuous learning are critical,” he said. “That’s a key takeaway from the Big Show, and it’s something I try to carry with me every day.” 

Attending the event also deepened his ties to UF. He met fellow UF students and alumni who were also using their education to drive progress in their fields. “We were united by a shared commitment to leading retail into the future,” he said. “Following the event, I felt even more connected to the Gator Nation, especially after building a relationship with Christina Norton, who has continued to be a supportive figure in my journey.” Norton, a lecturer for UF’s Warrington College of Business and director of the David F. Miller Retail Center, plays a key role in supporting and mentoring students like Arroyo as they pursue impactful careers in retail. 

Looking ahead, Arroyo hopes to build a brighter future in retail. “Long-term, I want to leave a legacy of empowerment and service,” he said. “I aim to continue advancing within retail leadership, stepping into more complex roles where I can influence broader strategies and mentor future leaders.”