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Olenka Besaga

Class of 2023, 2024

Economics, BA
Political Science, BA
Applied Quantitative Economic Analysis and Policy, MS

How did you become interested in pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in both Economics and Political Science? What attracted you to the master’s in Applied Quantitative Economic Analysis and Policy (AQEAP) as part of a combined degree program?

I became interested in studying both economics and political science because I wanted to learn more about how economic and political theory and decisions interact with one another and affect society. Political choices made at the national and international levels have significant impact on economic policy, international trade, and financial institutions. By combining the two fields of study, I received a better understanding of global politics and its challenges.

I was attracted to the AQEAP program because I was excited to get a deeper understanding in economics and guidance in my potential future career, and what I am most interested in, which is data analysis and research. So far, I have learned so much and applied so many skills and the knowledge of economics to my day-to-day life, as well as impressed many people on my internship interviews, especially when I mention the projects I’ve worked on as a student.

What internships have you had as a student?

I have worked for an international trading company as a financial analyst and the Nassau County Department of Assessment as a data analyst. This summer of 2023, I was fortunate enough to work for the Federal Reserve Bank of New York as an asset management intern. Throughout my time at Pace, I have also worked as a teaching assistant for University 101 so that I may motivate young, future economists.

What activities and organizations have you been involved with as a student?

I have been involved in a number of activities and organizations at Pace. One is the Political Science Society (PSS), which I joined when I was a freshman in 2020. I was difficult at first because everything at the time was on Zoom, but I was motivated to meet new people who shared similar interests. I so enjoyed being a part of PSS that I served as president until I became a full-time graduate student. That role helped me learn what it takes to be a leader and work and cooperate with other people. I also was part of the Economics Society and Women in Economics. I really loved these experiences, as I developed a positive community with my classmates who share the same passions and goals.

“I have learned so much and applied so many skills and the knowledge of economics to my day-to-day life, as well as impressed many people on my internship interviews, especially when I mention the projects I’ve worked on as a student.”

What challenges have you overcome and are proud of? What inspires you?

I'm proud of putting myself out there in regard to opportunities, including networking, that, as a freshman, was outside of my comfort zone. One of my proudest moments was when I represented England at the World Congress on Undergraduate Research at Warwick University in April 2023. This opportunity taught me to be confident in who I am and in my knowledge and skills, and to never underestimate or compare myself to others. I also overcame my fear of public speaking, knowing that this would benefit me in the long run. I am very grateful for that opportunity, and my economics professors who believed in me.

As a first-generation college student (my parents immigrated from Ukraine over 25 years ago), I’m inspired by my family, who have motivated me to work hard. They have always been there and sacrificed so much; as a way to thank them, everything I do is for them. I am also inspired and empowered to work hard to represent Ukraine, my second home, and for my family there.

How were Dyson or other faculty instrumental in your personal and/or professional journey?

The entire Economics department faculty impacted me the most in my experiences as a student because they treated me like family and were always there for me when I needed help with an economics question or a code in STATA, R or in Python. Even professors I have never taken courses with would be more than happy to help me. I really appreciate all that they do for me and my peers. I want to specifically thank Professor Anna Shostya, PhD, for guiding me since I was a first semester freshman and providing me with such amazing opportunities at Pace. She helped me challenge myself and she always believed in me.

What are your plans after graduation?

After I complete my master’s in Applied Quantitative Economic Analysis and Policy, I aim to work in data analysis and research in economics.

What advice would you give to students?

The most important advice I can give students is to connect with your professors and talk to them about career goals and plans. It is never too early to think ahead and start applying for internships that may interest you. The more experience you gain, the better opportunities you’ll receive in the future. Always network and meet new people!

Paola (Lola) Beber Sanches

Class of 2024

Currently Studying: BBA in Advertising and Integrated Marketing Communications / BBA in Digital Marketing (double major)

Current Internship: Ad Sales Intern, Spectrum Reach

Pronouns: She/Her

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Paola (Lola) Beber Sanches is already making waves in the marketing industry as a Lubin School of Business student. Not only did she serve as President of the Brand Marketing Team during her junior year, but she was also awarded the Brand Marketing Award from the University and had the opportunity to present at the National Advertising Student Competition. Paola says opportunities like these offered to her at Lubin are helping her find success at her summer internship with Spectrum Reach.

How has the Lubin School of Business helped you prepare for your current internship?

Being part of the Brand Marketing Team and working with Professors Conrad Nankin and Larry Chiagouris, PhD is probably the greatest experience I have had as a Lubin School of Business student. It really prepared me for this internship. I can confidently join conversations and sit in on meetings, as I clearly understand the topics discussed and have developed a great understanding of what working on a team is like. It also helped me tremendously with my self-confidence and public speaking, as I was able to be a presenter at the National Advertising Student Competition.

Moreover, my social media marketing class with Professor Randi Priluck, PhD, and media planning class with Professor Nankin have been two of the greatest classes I've taken at Pace University. They both make sure their students not only understand the concepts but know how to apply them.

Being part of the Brand Marketing Team and working with Professors Conrad Nankin and Larry Chiagouris is probably the greatest experience I have had as a Lubin School of Business student. It really prepared me for this internship. I can confidently join conversations and sit in on meetings, as I clearly understand the topics discussed and have developed a great understanding of what working on a team is like.

What attracted you to this internship?

This internship allows me to work with many different departments and, therefore, gain a better understanding of marketing campaigns and B2B relationships. As an Ad Sales Intern, I work closely with the sales department and many other departments, such as client success, field marketing, product management, and creative. What attracted me to this internship was the opportunity to learn about the industry, apply what I have learned in school, and network with people from various departments at a corporate company.

Describe what a typical day looks like as an intern at Spectrum Reach.

It always starts with coffee! Then, I check my email and messages, and work on the intern project with fellow interns from all over the country. Each day is a bit different—most days involve a lot of meetings with managers and account executives or sitting in on meetings with clients. I work on projects such as creating a TV spot for clients using AI or doing research to create a list of prospective clients. Spectrum Reach also provides interns with a lot of great resources and training, so when I have free time, I take advantage of that. Currently, I am taking a course on digital marketing with a focus on programmatic buying.

What has been the highlight or most enjoyable aspect of your internship so far?

The highlight so far has been working with such knowledgeable and welcoming people. I've had the opportunity to learn from people from many different departments, including my own. Everyone is eager to share what they know and do, which has allowed me to learn a lot and have a clear understanding of how the theory I've learned in class applies to the "real world."

How has this experience shaped or impacted your career goals?

This experience has helped me better understand how fragmented the marketing/sales department can be and what I want to pursue upon graduation. For example, field marketing was not initially an option for me, as I wasn't even aware of what it meant, but now I have an interest in potentially pursuing a career in it.

How will this experience impact your next semester at Lubin?

It's now easier for me to understand how concepts apply to the "real world" and how all the elements come together. I also now have an interest in sales, so maybe I will join a new club.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students who would like to pursue an internship in the future?

During the application process, do research on the company and the people who you will interview with. I did my part, found out about how Spectrum was applying AI to their business, and when I brought that up during the interview, it became a great conversation point between the managers conducting the interview and myself. If you show that you care enough to do your homework before the interview, they will remember you. Once you get that internship, make sure to ask questions, network, and learn as much as you can from the people around you—they will be happy to help you and they know you do not know all the answers.

Connect with Paola:

• Connect with Paola Beber Sanches on LinkedIn
• Follow Paola Beber Sanches on Instagram