Dancing Through Algorithms: Transitioning from Dance to Tech

Seidenberg School of CSIS

Lauren DeMaio is a senior at the Seidenberg School, who mixes the art of dance with the science of computing.

Pace Student Lauren DeMaio standing in front of old buildings in Seaport, NYC.
Pace Student Lauren DeMaio standing in front of old buildings in Seaport, NYC.
Sai Rajeswari Ghanta

Lauren DeMaio (BS in Computer Science '24) is a senior at the Seidenberg School, who mixes the art of dance with the science of computing. Join us as we walk through Lauren's typical day on campus, her lattes, her algorithms, and the story of how her decisions have led to an adventure in learning and teaching, at Pace.

Lauren’s typical day begins with a brief stop at the Seidenberg building where she is greeted by fellow students and faculty collaborating on projects, doing homework, or simply catching up from the weekend. These interactions set the tone for Lauren’s day and are a reminder of the fun and collegial community she has found at Seidenberg.

Lauren’s path to Pace was a bit less traditional than some. During her senior year in high school, and driven by a passion for dance, Lauren decided to leave public school to attend the Joffrey Ballet School as a Jazz and Contemporary Trainee. “I was commuting each day from my home in Dutchess County to New York City,” noted Lauren. Though the dance program was supposed to be four years long, Lauren decided to apply to a handful of colleges. “I just wanted to keep all possible paths open for myself,” shared Lauren. “I had very little interest in most of the schools I applied to, but when I received my acceptance to Pace, I was so thrilled that I accepted the offer.” Lauren ended up deferring her acceptance for one year, as she continued her studies at Joffrey.

When the COVID pandemic hit, however, it inspired Lauren to re-evaluate her path. “I took a look at my deferral from Pace and just jumped,” advised Lauren.

Computer Science was the only major that ever spoke to me, so I just took that idea and ran with it. Here I am in my senior year of undergrad, and I could not be happier with the decisions I made, especially with choosing Pace.

Lauren has filled her time at Pace with more than just studies. She has been able to nurture her love for teaching (she previously taught dance) through being a Teaching Assistant, with Dr. Carmine Guida as her mentor. In this role, Lauren is able to transfer approaches she’s used in teaching dance to help students in CS 241 Data Structures & Algorithms and CS 321 Intro to Game Programming. “Breaking down abstract computer science topics is just like breaking down the mechanics of a tendu,” shares Lauren. “Seeing that spark moment for the student where they finally understand has just further fueled my love for teaching.”

In addition, Lauren participates in the Design Factory project. During the Fall 2023 semester, Lauren and her teammates, led by the Design Factory program director Dr. Andreea Cotoranu, focused on responsible consumption and production, and looked for opportunities to address them. As part of their journey, they travelled to CERN (The European Organization for Nuclear Research) in Geneva, Switzerland, and spent two weeks developing solutions alongside other schools from the Design Factory Network. Lauren’s team is currently in the prototyping phase of their project, expecting to finish it by the end of the Spring 2024 semester.

Everyone on the team is so welcoming and passionate about what they are studying. It is truly inspiring to be part of such an aspiring group of students.

Despite her busy schedule, Lauren finds time to socialize (and caffeinate) throughout the day. You can find her each morning grabbing a latte from Variety Coffee Roasters. She also takes the opportunity to enjoy an espresso when she visits Dr. Guida to discuss her research and the progress of students in CS 241 and CS 321. After class, Lauren and her friends often walk over to the McNally Jackson bookstore, with a quick stop at the Funny Face bakery, to get hot chocolate and browse new books.

Despite changing gears, Lauren continues to be influenced by her background in dance. “Dancers have this beautiful ability to create a welcoming space for others where self-expression and being fully oneself in the present is key,” offers Lauren. “Not to make it seem like a science, but there is a power that comes with having the ability to make people feel comfortable in any particular space.” Lauren tries to apply this openness and promotion of self in all her interactions. “Giving people the space to express their passions really helps me see people as they are, and I have dance to thank for the ability to do that.”

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Pace University to Launch a New Artificial Intelligence Lab

Seidenberg School of CSIS

Pace University’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems is launching a new artificial intelligence (AI) lab at its New York City campus.

The lab will be housed in the brand new, cutting-edge building at 15 Beekman, the dedicated home for Seidenberg. It aims to serve as the central hub of AI for the Pace community, offering training and opportunities to learn, grow, and collaborate for students, faculty, and staff

Robotic hand holding a rubics cube
Robotic hand holding a rubics cube

The Lab Will Serve as the Hub of AI at Pace, Offering Training for Students, Faculty, Staff, and Local Businesses

Pace University’s Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems is launching a new artificial intelligence (AI) lab at its New York City campus.

The lab will be housed in the brand new, cutting-edge building at 15 Beekman, the dedicated home for Seidenberg. It aims to serve as the central hub of AI for the Pace community, offering training and opportunities to learn, grow, and collaborate for students, faculty, and staff.

In addition, the AI lab will extend its training initiatives to local businesses and community members, leveraging Pace's extensive expertise in AI research and development, which spans over 30 years.

"Pace has had a critical mass of influential talent amongst all of the sub-genres that are coming together as AI today,” said Jonathan Hill, dean of the Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems. “I am delighted to see us at the forefront of this historic time when artificial intelligence is part of every conversation."

The lab's activities will focus on the New York tech community, featuring planned meetups and networking for local professionals to connect and learn about the latest industry developments.

"Pace is exceptionally positioned as a leader in AI research and development," said Katie Todd, assistant dean and co-director of the lab. "We've been doing it for a long time. Seidenberg alumni are working at some of the hottest AI companies–and our students are consistently building and launching their own AI-driven apps."

The newly established AI lab represents just one of Pace University's upcoming developments in the field of AI. Next year, the university will launch two new graduate programs dedicated to artificial intelligence.

The two programs will offer differing tracks in the study of AI. The first program, the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence, places a strong emphasis on theory and the development of AI applications. Conversely, the second program, the Master of Science in Applied Artificial Intelligence, will provide students with hands-on training on how AI can be used in business and other areas to generate value.

Both programs will incorporate project-based experiential learning that will prepare students with the practical skills needed to join the next generation of AI innovators.

"The AI Lab at Pace University will permit us to consolidate, strengthen and extend the existing AI initiatives and create exciting new ones in education and research leveraging partnerships within and outside the university," said Lab Director Christelle Scharff, PhD, associate dean and professor of Computer Science at the Seidenberg School.

About Pace University

Since 1906, Pace University has been transforming the lives of its diverse students—academically, professionally, and socioeconomically. With campuses in New York City and Westchester County, Pace offers bachelor, master, and doctoral degree programs to 13,600 students in its College of Health Professions, Dyson College of Arts and Sciences, Elisabeth Haub School of Law, Lubin School of Business, Sands College of Performing Arts, School of Education, and Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems.

About the Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems at Pace University

The Seidenberg School of Computer Science and Information Systems at Pace University is a leading institute of technology education. Students experience a dynamic and expansive technology education at the undergraduate and graduate levels. One of the first comprehensive schools of computing in the nation, the Seidenberg School is strategically located in the heart of NYC’s tech scene, right on the doorstep of New York’s most promising companies. With access to established tech giants and exciting new start-ups from both the New York City and the Westchester campus, Seidenberg offers the opportunity to connect, intern with, and enjoy lucrative tech jobs following graduation. Through partnerships with leading tech firms, banks, federal agencies, and global institutions, the school’s curricula and programs are designed to ground students in the fundamentals while offering numerous hands-on experiential learning opportunity. The faculty includes numerous experts in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, game development, software engineering, and much more, who operate labs and centers providing students with practical experience and connections that lead to impressive internships and jobs.

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In The Media

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March 2024: A Message from President Krislov

Pace President

As we navigate the tail end of winter, with its brisk air and the last whispers of cold, we find ourselves on the cusp of a transformative season at Pace University. This period of transition reminds us of our enduring mission of Opportunitas—a time to reflect on growth, renewal, and the exciting journey ahead.

Pace students jogging along the Hudson River in NYC.
president krislov in his office

It’s a busy time of year at Pace.

As we navigate the tail end of winter, with its brisk air and the last whispers of cold, we find ourselves on the cusp of a transformative season at Pace University. This period of transition reminds us of our enduring mission of Opportunitas—a time to reflect on growth, renewal, and the exciting journey ahead.

Our recent PaceBound event for prospective students was a heartwarming prelude to the vibrant community and opportunities that await them here. Their enthusiasm and aspirations are a vivid reminder of the impactful journey that Pace offers and I can’t wait to see them on campus this fall. .

With Commencement on the horizon, the excitement within our community is palpable. This milestone is more than a ceremony; it's a celebration of the determination, achievements, and future endeavors of our graduates.I hope to share news about this year’s Commencement honorees soon. For all our soon-to-be alumni: be sure to stay informed about critical deadlines and preparations, ensuring a memorable and smooth transition to this significant next chapter.

Our campus is alive with stories of innovation and collaboration, from groundbreaking faculty-student research endeavors, to enriching global perspectives, and the empowering services provided by our Career Services. These stories not only highlight the academic excellence at Pace but also underscore our commitment to preparing students for success beyond the classroom.

Finally, keep an eye out for the Great Colleges To Work For survey, launching on March 11 via email. This crucial initiative is part of our commitment to workplace excellence, and we encourage all full-time faculty, staff, and adjunct faculty to share their perspectives. The survey is voluntary, confidential, and a key tool in assessing our progress and identifying future priorities. Let's seize this opportunity to voice our experiences and contribute to making Pace an even greater place to work.

As we anticipate the arrival of spring, let's embrace the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. Together, we will continue to advance, driven by our shared commitment to excellence and the Pace mission.

There’s a lot going on, and there’s more to come.

Let’s go get it.

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Remediating a Major Public Health Problem

Dyson College of Arts and Science
Pace Path/Student Success
Research

Clandestine methamphetamine labs: they’re a growing problem and can be a nightmare for unsuspecting homeowners. Dyson Professor Karen Caldwell and student researchers such as Morgan Amos are on the case, aiming to develop practical and effective remediation solutions.

An abandoned and neglected house
An abandoned and neglected house
Lance Pauker

Methamphetamine contamination within homes has been a growing issue in the United States. Because producing methamphetamine is by nature highly illegal, it’s produced in what are known as “clandestine labs”—generally in homes, motel and hotel rooms, garages, and even cars. And whenever methamphetamine is cooked, it creates an expensive and hazardous mess; one that could be a nightmare for anyone unknowingly spending time in a contaminated building.

Dyson College Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Physical Sciences Karen Caldwell, PhD, has been conducting research pertaining to this problem for nearly a decade; a subject she first became interested in after recognizing the nature of the problem in her hometown community.

“I’m from upstate New York. I was looking at the local newspaper where I’m from near Binghamton, and Senator Schumer was having a press conference at a house that had just been condemned,” she recalled. “There had been a big law enforcement bust of people in the house who had been illegally making methamphetamine.”

She noted that at this time, New York was one of 25 states where it was not required that sellers of property disclosed that the building had previously been used for that purpose—despite the fact that a home contaminated by methamphetamine requires remediation that can cost well over $100,000.

“When someone cooks meth, a lot of things end up everywhere. The residues from production, not only the drug. For every pound of meth produced, there are five or six pounds of hazardous waste produced.”

Exposure to this hazardous waste has been known to cause respiratory issues, possible central nervous system issues and skin infection, and is particularly harmful to young children. Given these issues, Caldwell made it her mission to delve into the existing literature and protocols surrounding methamphetamine remediation in hopes of better understanding the scope of the problem and how to better educate individuals dealing with a meth contaminated space.

“From a practical standpoint, is there a better way to remediate these interior buildings? That’s the genesis of the project. In my reading I noticed there were not many chemists who had been working on the fundamental problem of what causes things to be easier/not easy to clean from any surface.”

From a practical standpoint, is there a better way to remediate these interior buildings? That’s the genesis of the project.

Thus began a research project that has now spanned nine years, through which Caldwell has worked with seven different undergraduate researchers. Biochemistry major Morgan Amos ’25 is one of Caldwell’s current researchers, who after learning about her professor’s work after taking her organic chemistry class, connected with Caldwell through the Center for Undergraduate Research Experiences (CURE).

“During our class last year, she showed us what her research was about,” says Morgan. “I hadn’t done research in chemistry-based, only computationally through an internship. I thought it’d be really cool to get used to chemistry-based research, and I asked if I could research with her through CURE.”

Alongside student co-researcher Anna Acevedo ’24, Morgan has been reading existing literature, and coming into the lab to experiment with solutions through use of a model test compound. As Morgan and Caldwell note, their focus is to develop a quality control test to better understand the ways in which molecules interact with porous and non-porous surfaces.

“We’ve been coming into the lab and have been running a lot of UV specs as well as creating different solutions to help with the cleanup process that we’re going to eventually get the data we’re looking for,” says Morgan.

“The key thing is to develop a good control experiment,” adds Caldwell. “If you know how much material you’re putting down in terms of the number of molecules, grams, or micrograms, can you get it all back up from a surface that should not absorb any; like glass, or metal. That’s where we are right now.”

Ultimately, Caldwell hopes that this ongoing research will result in academic recognition through publication (in which all her student researchers will be recognized as co-publishers), and on a real-world level, to develop higher quality, practical, and more cost-effective means of dealing with this issue, that would potentially be patent-able. Caldwell and her team would ultimately hope that these patent-able products could be available to remediators (meth remediation is generally serviced by companies that perform mold, asbestos, and lead remediation), or perhaps even develop a direct-to-consumer option—something that may help better educate the general population, which as Caldwell notes, is also of the utmost importance.

For both students and professor, the project—and the spirit of research fostered by Pace—has been a considerable highlight of their Pace experience.

“I really enjoy research and am hoping to pursue a PhD,” notes Morgan. “This has helped me get experience of being in an actual lab doing research, having to think of things that will help the rest of our protocol for the future. It’s been great gaining the experience of what it means to be a researcher, and what that time and commitment looks like.”

“The continuing research has kept my own intellectual life alive,” says Caldwell. “I am so grateful do the University and to Professor Maria Iacullo-Bird and the Center for Undergraduate Research for all of the support through all of these years.”

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Designing Sustainable Solutions for a Better World

Pace Path/Student Success
Research
Seidenberg School of CSIS

Saloni Pasad has taken advantage of everything Seidenberg’s Human Centered Design program has to offer; including working with the NYC Design Factory, earning her a trip to Switzerland to explore how today's technology can provide tomorrow's food.

Micogreens growing in an indoor laboratory
Microgreens being grown in vertical farming laboratory
Lance Pauker

Today, about 50% of the world’s population lives near cities. Over the next few decades, this percentage is expected to increase. One important question that urban planners are beginning to ask is: How can we ensure future city residents have access to fresh produce, produced and delivered in a sustainable manner?

Enter, Seidenberg and Pace’s NYC Design Factory.

Image
Pace University Seidenberg Student, Saloni Pasad holding IdeaSquare certificate in Switzerland

Saloni Pasad is a graduate student earning a master’s in Human Centered Design; a cutting-edge program offered by Seidenberg that delves deep into the sort of human-centered problem-solving that is often at the heart of our technology today. After taking a Research Methods course with Seidenberg Clinical Professor and NYC Design Factory Director Andreea Cotoranu in her first semester, she was introduced to the Design Factory; an innovation hub that is part of the Design Factory Global Network, through which student teams partner with major corporations and international organization to work together on solving industry or societal challenges.

After hearing some students speaking about their experience, Saloni was hooked.

“For one of her classes, Professor Cotoranu invited students from the Design Factory to speak about their experience with the international design challenge they were working on. I was awestruck, and was really looking forward to applying,” says Saloni.

In Fall 2023, Saloni was among eight students chosen for the Design Factory's Challenge Based Innovation A³ project, aiming to create innovative solutions using technologies from CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) and ATTRACT (a project supported by the European Union). In this context students explore problems framed by the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 12, which emphasizes responsible consumption and production. The yearlong research and development project featured a two-week trip to ideaSquare CERN in Geneva, Switzerland in November.

While in Switzerland, Saloni and the NYC teams worked alongside teams from Design Factories in Melbourne, Australia, and Mannheim, Germany to focus on problem areas related to the UN goal, and had the opportunity to meet and learn from personalities from the world of design, science, and technology, including Robert Cailliau, one of the founders of the World Wide Web, who, as Saloni relayed, just so happened to have the first-ever prototype of the touch screen in his (super secure) briefcase.

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Designer Robert Caillau and the Design Factory team
Robert Caillau, the Design Factory team, and the famous touchscreen prototype

“I learned to look at a problem space from different angles. It might seem small, but I gained a lot from understanding exactly how scientists and designers think when they’re in the process of creating things.”

Through continued collaboration which culminated in a presentation at the end of the trip, the team narrowed down their problem space to one area; the question of how to sustainably supply cities of the future with healthy food.

"In cities like NYC, we're seeing a rise in the consumption of ultra-processed foods. To counter this trend and foster a healthier relationship between people and their food, we're looking to grow fresh produce right in the heart of our urban areas. By bringing vertical farming solutions into cities, we can make the most of our limited space while ensuring a steady supply of sustainable food for local communities. Additionally, we're exploring the concept of an Experience Center within our vertical farming initiative. This center would immerse visitors in sustainable agriculture through workshops, tastings, and hands-on demonstrations. Our goal is to deepen public understanding of where their food comes from and build a stronger connection with locally grown produce.”

Vertical farming, as opposed to traditional “horizontal” farming, is the practice of growing crops in vertically stacked layers; meaning that it can be done in many places other than a traditional plot of land, and even be incorporated into city designs. One of the major benefits of vertical farming is that growing can occur year-round, and is not susceptible to weather conditions in the same way typical farming is; and when implemented in strategic locations, this approach can significantly decrease the distance food travels before it arrives on grocery store shelves.

By bringing vertical farming solutions into cities, we can make the most of our limited space while ensuring a steady supply of sustainable food for local communities.

“We are exploring ways to integrate advanced technologies, such as those coming from CERN and ATTRACT, to cultivate high-quality, premium crops,” Saloni notes.

She is also excited to help initiate a larger shift in the relationship between communities and food. As an international student, Saloni has been able to experience this relationship from a unique perspective, and is excited to contribute to developing healthier behaviors around food consumption.

"Initially, as an international student, I found it surprising to see people consuming frozen food so often. Over time, I’ve gotten used to it. However, there's an opportunity to reconnect people with the rich flavors and aromas of real food."

Saloni and the team are now working on the problem space as part of a dedicated course, and have received a budget to develop a prototype. Their work will culminate in a presentation at the end of the year, and perhaps be employed to continue to push boundaries in redefining the ways in which fresh produce is grown and consumed in New York City neighborhoods. All in all, it’s been an opportunity that Saloni continues to be incredibly excited about.

"Coming to Pace, I honestly never imagined I'd have this experience. None of my friends at other colleges can believe the opportunity I've been given," she says. "I'm incredibly satisfied with the Human-Centered Design program; all my professors have been amazing, and the international experience has been fantastic."

About CBI A3

CBI A3 is a Design Factory Melbourne (DFM) initiative, developed for the Design Factory Global Network (DFGN), in conjunction with IdeaSquare, CERN. It builds on earlier Challenge Based Innovation (CBI) that focus on design innovation to propose solutions that connect CERN’s deep technology with societal needs. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals provide the framework for the CBI A3program and guide user-centered research and design to focus on areas of high sustainable impact. This year CBI A3 brings together teams from Swinburne Design Factory Melbourne (AUS), New York City Design Factory (USA), and Inno.space—Design Factory Mannheim (DEU).

CBI A³ 202223 and 202324 editions include projects funded by ATTRACT Academy. ATTRACT has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 101004462

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Stats and Strategies with Pace Career Services

Career Services/Internships

Ever wonder how Pace graduates consistently outperform the national employment average? It's all about starting early and making the most of Career Services. Check out our recent employment stats and get quick tips on getting career-ready.

A Pace student shakes hands with someone at a Pace Career fair
A Pace student holds a blue folder and smiles, a career fair behind her

Did you know that in 2023, 94 percent of Pace bachelor’s graduates and 97 percent of our master’s graduates were employed or hitting the books again within six months of tossing their caps? Or that for the past five years, Pace graduates have been employed at a rate ten percent higher than the national average? And last year, our students completed over 9,000 internships, co-ops, and more!

Pace’s commitment to getting students ready for their careers has even earned us the top spot among private colleges from Forage in experiential learning. Much of this success comes from the dedicated support and resources from Pace Career Services.

Here are some tips to take advantage of Pace’s unparalleled Career Services:

1. Engage Early

Begin career planning sooner rather than later. It's never too early to start envisioning your career trajectory. Beyond the support provided by the specialized Career Services staff, each school at Pace has a dedicated career counseling team.

2. Utilize Online Resources and Tools

Take advantage of tools and platforms on your career-planning journey. Try out Handshake for job listings or Interstride for international students; the AI-powered resume tool Resume Worded; the innovative interview prep tool Big Interview; and RSVP for events at the Virtual Career Center.

3. Join a Career Community

Career Communities group careers by common interests, activities, skills, or qualifications. When you join a Career Community, you can connect with like-minded people, explore related careers, and pursue goals that match your interests.

4. Earn a Digital Badge

Optimize your resume with a digital badge from one of Career Services’ programs: ASPIRE (domestic students), INSPIRE (international students), or Customer Service for Students.

5. Network

Check out Career Services’ resources on expanding your community and get mentored by Pace alumni through the Alumni Mentoring Network.

With unequalled success rates and comprehensive support, Career Services helps students get a jumpstart on their career, wherever they are in their journey. Take advantage of these resources that are helping Pace lead the way in student success.

To connect with a career counselor, take advantage of online tools, and more, check out the Career Service website.

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Career Services wrapped up the Spring 2023 semester with the first-person job and internship fair since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Best of all? There was record-breaking student turnout, making it the largest job fair in Pace’s history.

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Razing Liberty Square unveils the untold story of Miami's Liberty City and the impact of climate gentrification. Professor Corinna Sager shares her journey of producing this groundbreaking documentary, how she integrated the experience into her classes, and why she believes in the power of asking questions.

My Media Journey to Marketing Mastery

Lubin School of Business

Pace graduate student Shweta Rashmi shares the story of her enlightening transition from media and journalism in India to marketing in New York City, discovering new passion and purpose within Pace's supportive community.

Pace student Shweta Rashmi stands in front of the water at night
Pace student Shweta Rashmi stands in front of the water at night
Shweta Rashmi '24

Who doesn’t fantasize of living in the city that never sleeps? With its iconic skyline and bustling energy, New York is surely the dream of many. But before we get to how I ended up here, let’s do a quick flashback and let me introduce myself to you.

My name is Shweta Rashmi. I am from New Delhi India. And I am currently in my last semester at Pace wrapping up my MS in Social Media and Mobile Marketing. What led me here is a story of its own.

Soon after completing my undergraduate degree back home, I enrolled myself in a journalism course. I soon got the opportunity to intern and then work with the India Today/Aaj Tak network where I learnt the ropes of the media industry. I helped in producing a daily entertainment TV show, assisting on other small shoots and events, which gave me the confidence to face the camera and have my own show. A year later, I worked for a start-up news channel, where I anchored and produced my own weekend entertainment show all by myself, a necessity after my other colleagues were let go. That helped me learn almost everything about running a show from scratch.

Who doesn’t fantasize of living in the city that never sleeps?

After doing that for some time, I thought it was time to take the next step.

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Pace student Rashmi Shweta In Conversation with actors Shahid Kapoor and Mrunal Thakur for their movie Jersey
Shweta Rashmi interviews actors Shahid Kapoor and Mrunal Thakur for their movie Jersey

I joined CNN as an entertainment producer for digital media. This role was different as it wasn’t bound by target rating points (the ratings that measure the success of a channel’s marketing efforts) and urgent deadlines of airing live shows. This is where I got the chance to finally start interviewing celebrities, including some of the biggest of names in Indian movies—from Salman Khan to Akshay Kumar, Madhuri Dixit, Sushmita, and more. Even celebrities like MasterChef Australia judges Andy Allen, Late Jock Zonfrillo, and 365 Days’ actor Michele Morrone!

It was something the movie-obsessed geek in me had wanted to do since childhood. But then COVID hit, and I thought maybe it was the end of this excitement of meeting and interviewing my favorite celebrities.

But life had other plans—we started a new digital interview series where the objective was to bring out positivity. From deciding the guests and reaching out to them, working on the questions and the post-production chores, the one-woman-army in me loved it all.

From deciding the guests and reaching out to them, working on the questions and the post-production chores, the one-woman-army in me loved it all.

I ended up anchoring and producing more than 250 interviews in a span of 3.5 years. A lot of those interviews trended on YouTube, were later shared across the CNN digital platforms, and even aired on the CNN network. I got an opportunity to meet so many of my childhood favorites and build a relationship with them. If eight-year-old Shweta knew that one day she would be sitting across from the same celebrity she was gawking at on the TV screen, she would have been ecstatic.

After spending more than five years in the media industry, I felt like maybe now was the time to develop new skills. That is when my hunt began to find something else that interests me. I always knew social media was my favorite pastime and I was used to dealing with PR coordinators and marketing teams for movies and actors. I felt like maybe I should see what the other side of the table looks like.

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Pace student Shweta Rashmi interviews actor Alia Bhatt for her movie Gangubai Kathiawadi which also won her a National Award
Pace student Shweta Rashmi interviews actor Alia Bhatt for her movie Gangubai Kathiawadi which also won her a National Award.

And that is when I came across Pace’s Social Media and Mobile Marketing program. Apart from catering to everything I wanted to learn, it also offered the course as a STEM program which was even better because not only would I be getting more job opportunities, but it would give me a chance to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that are highly valued across various industries.

Whenever I visited the US as a tourist previously, New York had a charm I couldn’t ever put in words. I did apply to a few other universities across the country but somehow prayed that I would get to experience New York this time not as a tourist but as a student.

The next thing I knew, I was on the plane to New York and on my way to Pace. Mesmerized again by the infectious energy and the picturesque landscapes.

Two semesters later, I applied for an on-campus summer internship with the admissions team as an international marketing intern. It was meant to last for three months, but I will be completing a year of working here this May! I've also taken advantage of every opportunity I can, and even was an anchor for the New York Indian Film Festival.

Apart from catering to everything I wanted to learn, it also offered the course as a STEM program which was even better because not only would I be getting more job opportunities, but it would give me a chance to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills that are highly valued across various industries.

I worried I’d have to leave creative projects behind when I left home for school. But now I’m creating videos for Pace—using all my past experience of producing, anchoring, and editing, and combining it with everything that Pace has taught me over the last year and a half. I am grateful to my managers, Sara Young-Singh and Bayu Sutrisno for all the support they have provided me with in the last one year. This journey would not have been complete without their unwavering faith in me. I would also like to mention how important the people I met at Pace have been all this while. I can only imagine how difficult it would have been living away from home without having this amazing bunch by my side through thick and thin. They have changed my life only for the good.

I am halfway through my last semester, and it’s hard to believe but I am gearing up for my graduation now! It seems like just yesterday when I took my first lecture here, while still trying to settle my apartment and getting used to living alone.

From India Today to now, this entire ride has been full of ups and downs. But if I had to sum up the past few months in a few words, it would be challenging, enriching, and fulfilling. I hope to find a full-time marketing role soon and embark on yet another exciting journey.

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More from Pace

Students

Ever wonder how Pace graduates consistently outperform the national employment average? It's all about starting early and making the most of Career Services. Check out our recent employment stats and get quick tips on getting career-ready.

Students

Clandestine methamphetamine labs: they’re a growing problem and can be a nightmare for unsuspecting homeowners. Dyson Professor Karen Caldwell and student researchers such as Morgan Amos are on the case, aiming to develop practical and effective remediation solutions.

Students

Saloni Pasad has taken advantage of everything Seidenberg’s Human Centered Design program has to offer; including working with the NYC Design Factory, earning her a trip to Switzerland to explore how today's technology can provide tomorrow's food.

Clubs and Orgs at Pace

With more than 100 student clubs and orgs at Pace University, there’s something for everyone to get involved in.

Student smiling at the camera making a peace sign.
Student smiling at the camera making a peace sign.

With more than 100 student organizations at Pace University, there’s something for everyone to get involved in. Each semester, the Center for Student Engagement hosts involvement fairs, where you can meet all of our clubs and organizations, chat with representatives, and find out how you can sign up. Here's an overview of the different types of student clubs and orgs offered on the New York City and Westchester campuses.

Academic Interests

Whether you’re a nursing major interested in getting involved with SNAP or a crime buff interested in the Criminal Justice Society or Forensic Science Student Organization, take your interests to the next level with these student orgs.

Business Professionals

From marketing plans to market analysis, choose from more than 20 Pace student clubs and orgs that are getting down to business.

Media and Entertainment

Whether you’re interested in writing, reporting, TV, or concert-planning, Pace has got you covered. Now back to you, Jillian!

Visual and Performing Arts

Can you dance your tail off? Put on a show? Do you have the pipes that will make people feel aca-awesome or fill them with irrepressible joy? Our performing and visual arts student organizations are looking for you!

Cultural and Social

From Latin flavor to rainbow pride, Pace has more than 20 cultural student organizations to choose from!

Politics and Advocacy

Change makers in the movement to end cancer; promote peace; and save our planet. All in a day’s work for a Pace student.

Greek Life

If you want to go Greek, then you’re in the right place! From the Alpha to the Omega, check out which sororities and fraternities are on campus.

Student Governance

SGA, RHA, BAC, SAAC. If you don’t know these acronyms, then you don’t know the student leaders of your University.

See the Current Clubs and Orgs

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What the End of Affirmative Action Means for Westchester Schools

Pace President

Pace President Marvin Krislov and Chief Diversity Officer Stephanie Akunvabey speak with Westchester Magazine & 914 Inc. about Pace’s ongoing commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion and the impact of affirmative action in the aftermath of the Supreme Court decision for the magazine’s edition focusing on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

“Fortunately, the major institutions of American society now recognize the importance of diversity in remaining competitive, effective, and legitimate in a global market,” Krislov says. “Employers will continue to seek diverse talent, the military will still seek a diverse officer corps, and colleges and universities will experiment with new ways to ensure their student bodies remain diverse.”

president krislov in his office
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In The Media

What ‘The Bear’ Teaches Us About Leadership And Teamwork

Pace President

Adversity and challenges are something that everyone must overcome at one time or another, whether you’re a student, a member of a professional organization, or a leader. And “The Bear,” which the TV awards-givers insist on calling a comedy, and many of us see as a sort of family drama, is also providing countless lessons in effective leadership for those who are paying enough attention to see them.

Pace University President, Marvin Krislov
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In The Media
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