Economics major is an emerging leader and passionate advocate for affordability and inclusivity in higher education.

Why did you choose your major?

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During my first semester, I remember looking at my schedule and being repulsed at the thought of attending my Monday night, macroeconomics class. Flash-forward to the future, and it had become my favorite. Everything from Professor Bollon’s teaching to the curriculum presented me with academic challenges I’ve never been exposed to before, and I felt inspired, motivated, and ready to learn. In other courses, both Professors Bollon and Weinstock centered the study of economics around societal-based issues, and I started to ask “how can I resolve this?” I found my voice in their classes, and they helped me find my calling. At Pace, I can channel my passion where it thrives: learning and creating ways to change the economy for the better.

Do you see a connection between your studies and contributing to society?

Without a doubt! My passion for economics centers heavily around education, and specifically, higher education for all. I know it’s not easy for many families to afford sending their child to college, especially in the world we live in today. One of my career goals is to financially guide those families, as well as encourage society’s youth, and let them know they can and will achieve their dreams.

Why did you choose to attend Pace?

Long story short, a day trip into the Financial District with my family turned into my educational calling when I accidently walked into One Pace Plaza and fell in love. Although it’s a great story to tell, it isn’t the only reason behind my attendance. Everything from the university’s networking opportunities to the encouragement and guidance given to students attracted me. When I officially toured the university, a positive overwhelm of grit and drive emanated from the students and faculty, and I left wanting to be just like them. I was also a huge fan of smaller class settings for greater connectivity between professors and their students. Although it may be a smaller school than most, the family and community bond at Pace is large on love.

At Pace, I can channel my passion where it thrives: Learning and creating ways to change the economy for the better.

You received the Outstanding Emerging Leader of the 2019–2020 School Year Award from the Student Development and Campus Activities Office (SDACA). Tell us more about that.

I am blessed beyond belief to be recognized by the Pace community for this. Yes, I participated in many clubs and organizations throughout my freshman year, but purely out of an urge to make an impact and promote as much positive change and energy as I could. Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to become a leader and make the world a better place. I wanted everyone to be loved and appreciated for who they are and celebrated for their differences. I kept that same attitude going into my freshman year at Pace, and although I knew there would be challenges and disagreements, I learned that even the greatest of leaders can ask for help. It absolutely does not end with this award. I want to continue with more leadership roles on campus, as well as be a role model off campus to prospective students. I love my University; I consider Pace my home and I promise to continue making it proud.

What activities have you been involved with on campus?

Joining on-campus organizations has been the best part of freshmen year because it is how I learned the art of letting my passions soar. I am proud to work with the Welcome Center Office and Undergraduate Admissions as a tour guide; in fact, the best part of my day is meeting prospective students and hearing their stories. This position has made me extremely passionate about higher education and its availability for students of various backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and races. I am also a featured writer for Pace’s Her Campus Media Magazine on the New York City campus, and a part of Urban Sound NYC, a competitive, hip-hop dance team that dances for the university’s events and competes throughout the year. In addition, I am a fellow in the Women’s Leadership Initiative at Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, an organization based around mentorship, female/female identified empowerment, leadership, and diversity. Further, I hold membership positions in Women in Corporate America (WICA), Women in Economics (WIE), and American Marketing Association (AMA).

What would you like to do upon graduation/what are your career goals?

I would first love to be a financial advisor for economically-challenged individuals in New York City’s five boroughs seeking higher education, and conduct seminars for financial planning nationally. I’ve also always wanted to write a book on how to best navigate the hidden and unhidden pathways within higher education for those leaning towards that route. To this end, I would take a percentage of proceeds and create a scholarship for those pursuing STEM and various business degrees or entrepreneurial paths. I would also love to continue my education with Pace’s Master of Science in Applied Quantitative Economic Analysis and Policy (MSAQEAP), followed by doctoral studies in economics. Long-term, I’d like to teach at Pace and work my way up in higher administration roles, eventually to president of the university! If I am lucky enough to hold that position, I want to make sure my students have my full attention, and I will work one-on-one with every student organization and office (on both campuses) to enforce the practices of justice, equality, mental health advocacy, and more throughout my university.

What advice, if any, would you like to give to our current students?

It might sound crazy, but any time I’m working towards a goal, I manifest its outcomes. I simply speak into existence my hopes for the future, and if it goes my way, it goes my way, and if it doesn’t, it doesn’t! I’m also a big advocate for mental health and the Pace Active Minds organization are great mind and wellness ambassadors on the New York City campus. I’ve had my experiences with mental health struggles throughout high school and during some of my freshman year at Pace, so I would advise others to learn to prioritize and self-advocate your mental health, as you and your mind are irreplaceable. Also, always ask questions and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Lastly, enjoy yourself, your life, stand up for what you believe, and don’t let anyone tell you how you should feel, act, or do because this is your story!

Jeremiah Williams '23 found his place on campus within the political science department. He cites courses taught by President Krislov and Matthew Bolton as influential in his journey to understanding the political world.

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Why Political Science?

Understanding the varying methods of communicating information, especially as it relates to the world of politics and public service, is my primary focus within my dual majors. My studies further enhance my ability to help others through public service, by helping to voice concerns and working to find solutions to those concerns.

Why Pace?

I chose to attend Pace namely due to the Career Services program that showed promise in advancing my career interests. Pair that with the locales of the downtown financial district of New York City, an enthusiastic Welcome Center, and, of course, a significant financial aid scholarship offer, and Pace was the leading candidate for my undergraduate studies.

Tell us about your on-campus experience

I have had an overwhelmingly positive experience with the Political Science Department at Pace thus far. The bi-campus chair of the department, Professor Amy Freedman, has been instrumental in assisting me with my academic journey. Additionally, Professor Matthew Bolton, who I took a course titled "Conflict Analysis" with, and Pace President Mr. Krislov, who I took two political science courses with, were influential in shaping my understanding of the political world through an academic lens. After two years in the program, I look forward to what courses and experiences lay ahead.

My studies further enhance my ability to help others through public service, by helping to voice concerns and working to find solutions to those concerns.

What extracurriculars are you involved with?

I joined the Political Science Society (PSS) and Residence Hall Association (RHA) in my first year at the University. I was then elected to serve as the director of communications for both organizations in my second year. I am also the founding president of Pace Debates, the official debate team of Pace University, and look forward to a successful launch this fall 2021.

Tell us about your internships

I have had an internship over the past year with The Fair Ballot Project based in New Jersey. I obtained the internship via invitation by one of my peers at the University. I work with the organization to make ballots in New Jersey elections more equitable for all candidates running for public office.

What are your graduation plans?

Ideally, I would enter into the world of public service in whatever form best suits my community. I also have aspirations in journalism and hope to see my current show "On the Ticket" (available on all podcast platforms) grow in viewership as I have more time to dedicate to that project.

Any advice for current students?

Don't blow it. We are only blessed with one lifetime, and oftentimes, as much as we try to embrace all of the little moments, it is equally, if not more important, to strive for the larger ambitions you have for yourself. You can be that audacious and extraordinary version of yourself if you are willing to do what it takes to achieve that.

I came to Pace because it is in a perfect location to study the environment! As an Environmental Studies major, there are so many resources available to me on campus, such as the Nature Center, Choate Pond, and the Environmental Lab, as well as supportive staff and faculty at the Dyson College of Arts and Sciences. My faculty advisor, Angelo Spillo, has provided me with so many fantastic ideas as to how I may get involved, and Professor Rubbo has opened doors to my internship and has certainly set me on the right track for success. At the Greenburgh Nature Center, I work with animal care in the live animal museum and, as a part of my duties, help educate children who visit. After graduation, I plan on furthering my education and going to graduate school, with the goal of working in environmental consultancy or education.

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Avery Pickard

FSO Assurance Senior, EY

Class of 2021
BBA/MBA in Public Accounting with a Minor in Business Analytics

Member Of: Beta Alpha Psi, Chess Club, UNV 101 Peer Leader

Meet Avery Pickard '21, a junior in our five-year public accounting combined BBA/MBA program. He is currently interning at EY as a Financial Services Organization Launch Intern and is the Secretary of Beta Alpha Psi. Avery knows how to take advantage of the opportunities that Lubin offers. He participated in the PwC Challenge and Deloitte Audit Innovation Case Competition, is a peer leader, a scholarship recipient at the NABA Eastern Region Conference in Virginia, and a COAP Counselor. We talked to Avery about what #LubinLife means to him, his motivations, and how he is taking steps today to achieve his future goals. Fun fact about Avery: He has traveled to Nicaragua every year since he was two years old.

Why did you choose Pace University and the Lubin School of Business?

I'm very forward-thinking, so I already knew that I wanted to pursue a career in accounting before I even started applying to college. Pace University's Lubin School of Business is an AACSB-accredited school which is one of the primary degree-related requirements I learned that Big 4 accounting firms were looking for. After narrowing the schools down based on that, the only real deciding factor that was important to me was the community. Personally, I made the choice because the people within Lubin show a genuine willingness and commitment to helping me grow and map out my goals, which I haven't seen the same degree of anywhere else.

What motivates you to work hard and take advantage of the opportunities that Lubin has to offer?

I don't think there's a day that goes by where I'm not aware of the vision I have for myself 2, 5, or even as much as 15 years down the line. That vision is always changing as the path to that destination gets clearer, and that vision is very effective in fueling my motivation to achieve and to seek out opportunities that will get me closer to that goal. For example, I want to intern for a specific audit team for a French company, so I've started learning French. It's about ambition. In 15 years I want to be a partner at the firm I'm working at. What can I do now to get there? There are several competitions, events, panels, student organizations, etc. that help push you closer to that goal. The important thing is to keep an open mind. Even when an event may not relate directly to your path, you might find people along the way that may help you get to your destination.

Often times, I've found that my peers are the ones who motivate me to do well and also provide me with opportunities just because the kindness of their hearts compels them to share them.

Do you have any advice for freshmen?

Never feel discouraged to pursue something because it seems too hard. See your college years as your chance to take a leap of faith and go for that opportunity. It's better to learn now through those experiences. Additionally, it's a lot easier to take on failure now. It's all about learning and standing out. I think it's safe to say that employers love seeing that you're committed to the field, to providing value as a professional, to pursuing learning opportunities, and to having the courage to try and take risks Surrounding yourself with successful people is important as well. It's easy to do that at Pace because there's a large number of professional student organizations which usually pool the top students. Social student organizations can also help connect you with top students in other schools and expand your network of positive influence. Often times, I've found that my peers are the ones who not only motivate me to do well but also provide opportunities for me through the kindness of their hearts. Personally, I think the best groups consist of people you can consider to be both friends and mentors.

How do you overcome stressful/overwhelming moments?

I once read in an article about something called the 10/10/10 Rule. In short, the idea is that if you're ever struggling to make a decision about something, think about your choices and how you will feel after making them 10 minutes from now, 10 months from now, and 10 years from now. When I find myself taking on an opportunity that becomes overwhelming, I think about why I'm doing it and not only how I'll feel about it, but how it will affect me in 10 minutes, months, and years. That way, I'm reminded that I'm doing this to get me closer to my goal. When you take that time to refocus on the goal, it makes all of the stress worthwhile. It reminds you that not everyone is willing to take on that stress and 10 months or 10 years from now it will leave you in a better position than your peers, regardless of how you still feel about it 10 minutes from now.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

#LubinLife essentially represents a world of success. Whether it's connecting with a plethora of highly-motivated students in professional student organizations such as Beta Alpha Psi or The Industry Network, meeting executives in programs like the Executive in Residence program or the Dean's Roundtable initiatives, or gaining exposure to employers that come on campus such as Goldman Sachs or EY, #LubinLife consists of an endless series of opportunities. The best part about #LubinLife is knowing that Lubin is not just a magnet for opportunities, but a community filled with faculty, staff, and students that are all committed to personal and professional growth not only for themselves but for each other.

Erica Jurus

Operations Manager, Regal Music Theater

Class of 2022
BBA in Arts and Entertainment Management with a minor in Law.

Member Of: Pforzheimer’s Honors College, Tonal Recall, Industry Network

Meet Erica Jurus, an Arts and Entertainment Management major who is also an incredibly talented singer. She has performed with country star Eric Church and the rock band Foreigner! She came to Lubin seeking an understanding of what the business side of the music industry looks like, but she hasn’t left her passions behind. Erica has taken the role of leading one of Pace’s acapella groups, Tonal Recall, as their President, making sure that they are in perfect shape for their upcoming International Championship of Collegiate Acapella (ICCA) competition.

Why did you choose Pace University and the Lubin School of Business?

I chose Pace and Lubin for the Arts and Entertainment Management major. No other university that I looked at had a program that was so well thought out and applicable to the real world. And with the program being in the business school, I knew I was getting a quality business education with an entertainment industry twist – plus, where else would you want to learn about entertainment than in New York City?

Tell us a bit about your internships. How will you apply what you learned on them to the rest of your career? What comes next?

This past summer I interned at Boston Logan International Airport in the Massachusetts Port Authority’s Public Service Department, where our objective was helping passengers with anything they needed, mostly giving out information and assisting in the international terminal. While interning there, I was able to develop my communication skills. For example, when it came to interacting with passengers and trying to solve issues they may have, I would have to figure out what their problems were, how I could fix them, and give them instructions towards the solution. Communication is so important, especially nowadays with so many different forms of it; it is always a skill worth having.

There is so much to do in the city, and so much to learn from it, it feels like a waste not taking advantage of the opportunity to work hard and learn as much as I can.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students looking for internships?

Utilize Career Services and Handshake. The career counselors are incredible and will help you with resumes, cover letters, interviewing skills, and making sure you are prepped and ready to get the internship. Handshake has so many job opportunities, some with applications as easy as uploading your resume and clicking submit. You could browse jobs and internships for hours and apply. Additionally, there are so many other resources, between your professors, your peers, and just being in the city, the opportunities are endless. Network all you can!

What motivates you to work hard?

I am so lucky to go to school in New York City, and I do not want to take that for granted. And because there is so much to do in the city, and so much to learn from it, it feels like a waste not taking advantage of the opportunity to work hard and learn as much as I can.

You are the President of Pace’s acapella group Tonal Recall. Tell us a bit about that experience and how it has helped you to become a well-rounded professional.

Tonal Recall is a fun outlet for me to continue my love of singing. It’s a nice break twice a week from classes and homework, and with a great group of people. As President of the group, I have enhanced my leadership skills, and because we sing acapella (no music) we have to trust each other and work together to create something great.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

#LubinLife means taking advantage of all the opportunities around you to become a better person, student, and businessperson.

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Bryan Comandini

Investment Specialist, Baron Capital

Class of 2022
BBA in Accounting / MS in Financial Management

Member Of: American Marketing Association, Pace Investment Club, Student Veterans Of America

Meet Bryan, a Coast Guard Achievement Medal recipient who chose Pace University as the place that would help him advance his career as he retired from the Coast Guard and focused on growing his business as a real estate agent in New York City and New Jersey. As soon as he started taking classes at Lubin, Bryan started growing his network within our school. Joining multiple student organizations and catching the entrepreneurial bug at the eLab inspired him to start his own Real Estate Study Group at Pace. Bryan has a growing social media following, a real estate newsletter that he publishes, and a YouTube channel focused on lifestyle and the real estate industry. All of these great things combined with Bryan learning key business skills in his courses prepares him to make his presence felt in the industry.

Why did you choose Pace University and the Lubin School of Business?

Pace is a very veteran friendly university and many of the credits that I had previously earned both during my time in the military as well as from East Carolina University were accepted. Additionally, Pace’s Yellow-Ribbon Program is amazing. They matched 100% of what Veterans Affairs paid for tuition, which means that I am able to continue my education at no cost. The Lubin School of Business has a very good reputation within the financial industry, so I knew that it would be a smart decision to enroll in a business program and ensure that I could take advantage of the school’s close relationships with the Big 4 Accounting firms – if I decided to go into that line of work.

The advice I would give is simple: ask as many questions as possible to advisors at the school. In my experience, if they don’t have the answers, they will work hard to find them for you.

You were an engineer in the Coast Guard before you came to Pace, what is your advice for other non-traditional students?

I like this question because I wish that there could be more guidance for students like me prior to becoming a student at Pace. The advice I would give is simple: ask as many questions as possible to advisors at the school. In my experience, if they don’t have the answers, they will work hard to find them for you.

You have a prolific career in real estate; how have your business school courses impacted your professional specialty?

The one class that sticks out the most, in regard to having an impact on my career in real estate, would have to be Financial Accounting. Accounting is the backbone of any business, and so the stronger the accounting systems your business has in place, the better it will function overall. I’ve been able to take the concepts I’ve learned in that class and apply them in my business so that I can do a better job at tracking our expenses and revenue.

What other resources have you taken advantage of at Pace University?

The Learning Center has been a great resource that I’ve been able to take advantage of here at Pace. Like many others, I’ve found that math is one of those subjects that can get tricky and confusing. Having the Learning Center at our disposal is a great resource to clear up any doubts and questions that I’ve had regarding concepts discussed in class.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

To me, #LubinLife means challenging yourself to become a well-rounded business person and better version of yourself. It means that you are ambitious about achieving your business goals and leveraging the resources that are available to you as a way to slingshot you to success.

Why did you choose to attend Pace, and to pursue a major in Forensic Science?

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I chose Pace because the Forensic Science major is very unique as compared to other programs, and there is a great success rate in job placements for graduates. Forensic Science is solely based on facts and data collected during investigations, and as someone who values justice in our society, I wanted to contribute in the best way I knew how, which is the scientific approach. This major combines science and criminal justice, which made it an easy choice for me.

Tell us about your background, and what motivates you.

I am a first-generation college student. Growing up, I saw my parents, two immigrants from Mexico, work extremely hard to raise my younger brother and I, while also trying to make ends meet. My mom and dad have always supported me and my education, often putting aside their own needs to make sure our wellbeing came first. If it weren't for them, I wouldn't be here right now. One of my dreams, and an early promise of mine, has been to buy my parents a home, so I am here not only for myself, but for my family, too.

Have you had any internships or been engaged in any activities on campus?

In Summer 2020, I was part of the CUNY Summer Undergraduate Research Program, which I discovered at Pace, and was supported to enter. My role involved joining Dr. Brian Giebel, a researcher for the Advanced Science Research Center, in a 10-week research project entitled “Visualizing Water Pollution and Quality in NYC using QGIS.” Our main task was to use geospatial water quality data and interpolate the data onto a map of New York City. This allowed us to visualize areas with higher levels of contaminated water compared to the rest of the city.

On campus, I am both a Chemistry 111 peer leader and a student lab tech. Being a peer leader is such a great role to have, because I can help others that are just starting out in the major become adjusted to the workload, and also learn and grow. As a lab tech, I assist professors with their lab classes, and use what I learn in the classroom in a real job setting. Both are very rewarding.

In addition, I have also been doing research. This year, I received the Office of the Provost’s Student-Faculty Undergraduate Research Award, for an exciting project with Professor Eric Chang and a graduate student entitled “Paving a New Way for Treating an Old Disease – Characterizing the Mobile Loop Region of Lactate Dehydrogenase from P. falciparum.”

I wanted to contribute in the best way I knew how, which is the scientific approach.

What would you like to do upon graduation/what are your career goals?

After graduation, I plan to stay at Pace and obtain my Master of Science in Forensic Science. After that, I would like to pursue a PhD, possibly in Toxicology, which is largely due to my newfound love of research. Thanks to Pace and its professors, I was able to grow and learn new things about myself and adjust my career goals accordingly.

What advice, if any, would you like to give to our current students?

A lot of students are afraid to get involved and talk to their professors. I was one of those student​s at first, but I learned very quickly that our professors want what is best for us. In fact, talking to my professors landed me a job, research opportunities, internships, and so much more!

Why did you choose to attend Pace?

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I chose Pace because it was a perfect balance of everything I liked about a New York/city college, had a unique, diverse student body and staff, and made clear efforts to provide attention to each and every student, something I didn’t feel I received back in high school or in my hometown in Pennsylvania. When I was lucky enough to be accepted into the Pforzheimer Honors College, it became a no-brainer that Pace was the right choice.

What is it about your dual majors in Communication Studies and Language, Culture, and World Trade that interests you?

I think that communications, paired with a language/internationally based major, is a perfect combination that has relevance in any professional setting. I find communications interesting because we use communications and media studies every day of our lives. Learning efficient communication strategies alongside Pace’s various language programs is a match made in heaven for me.

What have your experiences been like with the departments of your majors?

Each and every Communication Studies professor I have taken a class with has been a pleasure to interact with, and as a sophomore, I’ve already taken various classes with professors Marcella Szablewicz and Adam Klein. In terms of my other major, professor Antonia Garcia-Rodriguez has been life-changing in my educational and professional development. Both in teaching me Spanish, and in her passion for the language, I’ve been inspired to become fluent to the point where I’ve already used my language skills in an internship, and an urge has been sparked in me to visit Latin America as soon as possible.

Learning efficient communication strategies alongside Pace’s various language programs is a match made in heaven for me.

What internships have you participated in as a student?

I was a part of Pace’s New York Recovery Internship last summer. It was an unbelievable experience that allowed traditionally unpaid internships with nonprofits to be funded via Pace’s donors in a time as uncertain as the current period with the pandemic. I worked with New York Disaster Interfaith Services and its fantastic, bilingual team that helped fund underprivileged New Yorkers who were negatively impacted by COVID-19, whether that means they became sick, lost their job, or experienced another emergency. I was lucky enough to speak Spanish and receive college credit for this internship, and it was incredibly rewarding to be able to remotely provide for the city of New York and its people.

What other activities have you been involved with?

I have participated in Pace’s International Buddy Program, in which we partner with incoming international students and help them navigate university and city life. I have met some great people through this program. Other than that, I had the pleasure of being vice president of Pace’s Residence Hall Association, representing the student body who live on campus. I’m also excited to be a recipient of the Watson Fellowship, which will grant me three incoming summer internships: one in New York, and two abroad. I am excited for the future to come!

What would you like to do upon graduation/what are your career goals?

I am still not sure exactly what I should do after graduation, but I know I love traveling and speaking foreign languages, and feel passionate about the immigrant community in New York and our country. I have thought about immigration law, translation, or writing as possible career paths. Something tells me I’m likely to combine them all at some point in my future career!

What advice, if any, would you like to give to our current students?

I must first acknowledge each and every person’s effort in pursuing an education in such a difficult, remote climate that doesn’t allot for much social interaction or movement, which is the antithesis to a New York City education. I would encourage them to look towards the future and try to pursue the various programs that Pace offers, and just apply for whatever sounds interesting and go for it. You can plan and plan, but the best things in life, in my experience, come unannounced, and you’ll never know what could happen if you don’t try.

Why did you choose to attend Pace?

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My friends advised me to apply to Pace; among the schools I was accepted to, Pace had the best location, and since I was used to small size classes in high school, I was also swayed by this feature. The first time I actually came to the New York City campus was during my summer freshman orientation. It was scary at first, but soon enough, I started feeling at home here.

What is it about your major that interests you?

In my opinion, life sciences are essential in understanding the world and broadens the mind so much. I love how there are many things that I do not yet know, and that pushes me to keep up to the speed of science. Currently, I am mostly interested in cell biology and microbiology. However, biology is constantly developing, and I am open and want to learn throughout my life. I think that the most important skill I have developed is the ability to process scientific data; that is one I can never lose.

Where are you from originally? What brought you to the United States?

I grew up and graduated high school in Moscow, Russia. At the time, I was interested in pursuing a career in the medical field, and after reviewing my options, I decided to study abroad. I already had some family in New York, so that was the deal maker for me. I wanted to see the world, and, ultimately, it worked out. Throughout my five years in this city, I have found my passion and realized many opportunities.

The important skill I have developed is the ability to process scientific data; that is one I can never lose.

As an international student, what have your experiences been like with the Biology Department?

I could not even imagine how much of a family my department would become for me. The Biology Department is very welcoming, and in my first year, the support from upperclassmen and professors was immeasurable. Professor Marcello accepted me into his lab course, and became my guide throughout my academic journey. Professors Kelly, Strass, Brenner, and Buraei also had a great impact on me.

What achievement are you most proud of, and what is the biggest challenge you have overcome?

To live alone in a foreign country is an achievement in and of itself. I am also proud of myself for studying and making friends using a language that is foreign to me.

For me, the biggest challenge was myself. Around my third year in Pace, I was diagnosed with a few mental disorders, and my academics began suffering. I was trying to find myself, and took a leave of absence. Once I gained more stability, COVID-19 struck the world, and my mental and physical health took a second hit. I can be my worst enemy, but I learned how to win. I think it is important to talk about mental health, since so many students are struggling with their own issues. In the future, I want to educate others about it and help as much as I can, especially if I am going to work in the school system.

What would you like to do upon graduation/what are your career goals?

I aim to become a middle school and high school teacher, and in a few years, I’ll consider getting a degree in Psychology or exploring teaching opportunities around the world.

What advice would you give to other international students?

Live in dorms, enroll in clubs, talk to professors, travel, and don’t miss out on opportunities. This seems like very general advice, but it is no less true. Also, international students are so lucky to see the world, so we should make the most of it. Moving to another country allows life to be seen from a different perspective, and it’s the most valuable decision I have made. Also, do not be embarrassed about your accent. It took me a while to understand that it does not really matter, especially in New York.

Ritvi Shah

Communications and Investor Relations, Warwick Investment Group

Class of 2022
BBA in Global Marketing Management / Finance (double major)

Member Of: National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS), Women in Corporate America, Cosmetology Club, Selling and Sales Team, Study Abroad Club

Ritvi Shah '22 came to Lubin with an open mind and ready to push the boundaries of what she thought her abilities were. It turns out that is how she met some of her closest friends. By being involved on campus and saying yes to new experiences, she is making the most out of her studies and helping others along the way. Her resume includes multiple leadership positions, internships, honors organizations, conferences, competition wins, and being a resident advisor. We talked to Ritvi about some of the wonderful experiences she has had at Pace so far.

Why did you choose Pace University and the Lubin School of Business?

Pace University was always at the top of my list because of its location. However, what set Pace apart from other colleges in the area is the ratio of professors to students. I knew that at Lubin, I would be recognized for my achievements and surrounded by a diverse group of students. The students at Pace are from all over the world, which brings a wide variety of perspectives into the classroom. Some of the professors I've had were very active in their respective fields or have made valuable contributions to society. By surrounding myself with these people, I have made many connections that I wouldn't have been able to make at any other university.

Using what we learned in Professor Nankin's managerial marketing class, my teammates and I analyzed the documents and created a presentation within 24 hours. The rush I felt from working late into the night and waking up early to present the case to the judges in the morning was unlike any other experience I've had as a student.

Congratulations on your big win in this year's Selling Keystone event! Can you tell us what it is like to be part of the Lubin Sales Team and your experiences in sales competitions?

Thank you so much! I initially joined the Lubin Sales Team with zero experience. However, with the help of my other teammates and our team leader, Professor Markovitz, I was able to learn everything that I needed to know for my first sales event, Selling with the Bulls, within two weeks. Because of Professor Markovitz's leadership, I was able to place in the networking portion of the event. Later I participated in the Selling Keystone event and was placed in the case competition section. Using what we learned in Professor Nankin's managerial marketing class, my teammates and I analyzed the documents and created a presentation within 24 hours. The rush I felt from working late into the night and waking up early to present the case to the judges in the morning was unlike any other experience I've had as a student. Additionally, this event provided me with many networking opportunities. If anyone out there wants to join a Lubin team, but is hesitant, I would say go for it. The knowledge gained from competitions can't and will not be attained in a classroom.

You are very involved in campus life and student organizations. How important is this to your student experience?

As a student, I want to do more than just earn a degree and leave. I want to enjoy my college experience at Pace and learn more about different topics that I otherwise never would have known about. For instance, I am part of the e-board for National Society of Leadership and Success and also part of the Cosmetology Club. I want to help others become good leaders and look good in the process. Right now is the best time to learn something new and I don't want to let the opportunity slip away.

What other resources available at Pace and in New York City have you been taking advantage of as a Lubin student?

As a Lubin student, the best way to meet new people is to network, which can sometimes be extremely daunting. Thankfully, the Career Services Office was able to help me tailor my resume toward getting a marketing internship. Then, I was able to use Handshake to find many great opportunities. I was also able to attend the Dean's Roundtable to network with many Lubin alumni who offered great insight into what they've done to attain the positions they have now. By having these resources available, I'm always meeting new people and forming new relationships.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students looking to get involved on campus?

This advice is for any student who does or does not know where they are headed: the first step is to join any clubs and organizations that slightly interest you, even if you aren't sure if you'll fit in. I have met some of my closest friends by pushing myself to do something that I never thought I would be good at doing. Everyone welcomes you with open arms and is ready to help you grow, so don't be afraid to take the first step.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

#LubinLife means knowing that you go to a university that cares about its students by providing them with the best professional staff and endless opportunities to grow to reach their end goals.