Mary Arabit
Learning without Limits
Mary Arabit has built a remarkable career in commercial banking and loan accounting that spans more than 30 years — and several countries. She began her professional journey as a loan clerk at the Bank of Hawaii once she graduated from a university in the Philippines where she earned a degree in data processing management. At the time, Mary had been living in Guam, and while she was working, continued to pursue her education to receive two additional degrees in accounting and computer applications. While at the Bank of Hawaii, Mary was promoted to the position of commercial loan service supervisor, which propelled her toward the next stage in her career.
In 2000, Mary moved to Virginia, where she worked for various community banks and then served as assistant vice president of commercial lending at Capital One. During this time, she obtained a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Saint Leo University. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, Mary then joined Freddie Mac on the Multifamily Loan Administration team as a supervisor. She has worked on this team throughout her tenure with the company, rising through the ranks to her current position as senior manager. Last month, she just celebrated her nine-year anniversary!
On the Loan Administration team, Mary is responsible for managing the purchase, post-purchase and records center groups. This includes overseeing reviews of loan final delivery packages and authorizing funding, clearing loan exceptions identified during the purchase review, and validating and maintaining original loan documents.
Below Mary shares what makes working at Freddie Mac so special.
What do you like most about working at Freddie Mac?
A: There are several things I love! Firstly, the people. They are genuine, friendly and care about each other. It is easy to enjoy working when the people you work with are easy-going. Second, I’m a huge fan of the technology Freddie Mac uses. The company continuously pursues adoption of innovative systems, which allows me to learn a lot and expand my skills. Lastly, the work we all do is so meaningful and I’ve seen firsthand how even a small innovation can make a big impact. This is why I always encourage others to bring forward their own ideas — because when we all contribute, the benefits ripple through the entire organization.
What gets you excited about coming to work every day?
A: What excites me most is seeing my ideas come to life at a company with a meaningful mission. We are making homes attainable for everyone, and for me, this has deep significance. Home is a foundation, and homeownership is more than just a transaction. It’s the foundation of family as well as stability and growth. My team contributes to the mission by ensuring that loans move efficiently, accurately and on time — which means fewer delays and the ability for more families to reach the critical milestone of having rental homes to live in. Being a part of this process reminds me each day that the behind-the-scenes work really does help build communities. My father would often tell me, “Love your job and your job will love you back.” This rings true at Freddie Mac.
Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self?
A: I’d tell myself to think bigger and beyond your own team. Take the time to understand the whole business, how different departments work and how your role fits into the larger picture. This awareness helps you to spot inefficiencies, collaborate better and create solutions that positively impact the entire company.
What are your hobbies/passions outside of work?
A: My first love is ballet — I spent six years in ballet school and still enjoy dancing whenever I can. I am also passionate about traveling and have had the opportunity to explore a range of places, from European castles to Asian temples.
Giving back to the community is important to me, especially in places I grew up or live. I have volunteered with a Philippines-based nonprofit that helps feed homeless and underprivileged children living on the streets, and I also participate in Meals on Wheels, delivering food to seniors in Virginia.
Above all, my family is at the heart of my passions. I reside in Loudoun County, Virginia with my husband Arnold, our two dogs Coco and Shoyu, and my sons. Joshua, who graduated from the University of Virginia, is getting married this month, and Paulo recently graduated from James Madison University and became a board-certified histotechnologist. We cherish our shared moments, such as watching the northern lights in Iceland and enjoying traditional Filipino dishes together. My parents hold a special place in my heart — they have always been a pillar of support, especially while I was working and studying, and they generously helped care for my children. My children and I would not be where or who we are today without the loving presence of my parents.
Mary Arabit and her family.
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