Finding a Balance</h1> <article> <h1>Finding a Balance</h1> <p>awillia2 — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 20:59:09 +0000</p> <span>Finding a Balance</span> <span><span>awillia2</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-08-28T16:59:09-04:00" title="Thursday, August 28, 2025 - 16:59">Thu, 08/28/2025 - 16:59</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Attending �鶹��Ƶ allowed Daniela Mortazavi ’22 to pursue piano and economics—and make a difference in the college’s business major.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-11-12T12:00:00Z">Wed, 11/12/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Kira Goldenberg</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>When Daniela Mortazavi ’22 first decided to attend �鶹��Ƶ, she gravitated to a school halfway across the country because she felt excited to continue focusing on piano at the conservatory in addition to immersing herself in the college’s broad coursework offerings.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2368">Alumni</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2360">After �鶹��Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3925">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4074">East Asian Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4268">Business</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics" hreflang="und">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/east-asian-studies" hreflang="und">East Asian Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/business" hreflang="und">Business</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Courtesy of Daniela Mortazavi</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-flex-content field--type-entity-reference-revisions field--label-hidden vertical-spacing--basic field__items"> <div class="field__item"> <div id="obj-43131" class="paragraph paragraph--type--para-el-copy paragraph--view-mode--default o-flex--basic-copy basic-copy"> <p>“�鶹��Ƶ was the place where I could take academically rigorous classes but also pursue my music alongside other serious musicians,” says the Bay Area native, who has played the instrument since the age of three. “That balance was really important for me.”</p><p>When Mortazavi graduated four years later, she still practiced piano regularly, but she did not end up majoring in music. During her time at �鶹��Ƶ, her academic interests shifted with her exposure to �鶹��Ƶ’s wide array of academic options. Mortazavi ended up majoring in <a href="/node/3386" target="_blank">economics</a>, minoring in <a href="/node/3341" target="_blank">East Asian studies</a>, and completing a then-brand new <a href="/node/413251" target="_blank">integrative concentration</a> in business. </p><p>“I chose econ because I found it to be a very versatile degree,” she says. “It was both qualitative and quantitative at times. I wasn’t sure exactly what I wanted to do after college, but I knew that would be flexible enough to open some doors.” </p><p>Indeed, Mortazavi parlayed her college experiences, which included three years leading the �鶹��Ƶ Finance Club as well as a Winter Term entrepreneurship bootcamp, into a COVID lockdown-era stint at an AI startup and then finance internships before she began her current role as an investment banking analyst at Societe Generale in New York.</p><p>“The job I’m currently in, which is Equity Capital Markets within investment banking, has a lot to do with the concepts you learn in economics,” she says. "But I was able to differentiate myself through the other courses I took at �鶹��Ƶ. Whether that was physics, philosophy, or art history — the whole liberal arts curriculum allowed me to be adaptable in learning new concepts and approach problem solving with a diverse set of perspectives.”</p><p>Mortazavi is among those alumni offering Associate Professor of Business Eric Lin input on curriculum development for the new <a href="/node/322196" target="_blank">business major</a> that launched in fall 2025. She’s also working with Lin to “assemble this bullpen of alumni to strengthen our connectivity” with current students, so Obies interested in finance have more mentorship and networking opportunities.</p><p>“I see how so many of these �鶹��Ƶ alums go out of their way to help other Obies,” she says. “The nature of those relationships has influenced my desire to give back.”</p><hr><p><em>When you </em><a href="/node/322196" target="_blank"><em>major in business at �鶹��Ƶ</em></a><em>, you have access to powerful networking opportunities with alumni who are as creative and aspirational as you are. Learn more about this course of study, whether you’re diving into the corporate sector, launching a freelance consulting career, or even opening your own business. </em></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>A Supportive Environment</h1> <p>mreed — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 16:09:30 +0000</p> <span>A Supportive Environment</span> <span><span>mreed</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-08-18T12:09:30-04:00" title="Monday, August 18, 2025 - 12:09">Mon, 08/18/2025 - 12:09</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p id="docs-internal-guid-185d9af2-7fff-2199-8bad-f953b7c0a97a">After starting high school in Germany, the <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics">economics</a> major finished at the Trinity-Pawling School in New York, graduating as valedictorian before heading to �鶹��Ƶ.</p><p>Fechner says his experience was all that he had imagined it would be. “Socially and athletically, it’s easy to find like-minded people [at �鶹��Ƶ].”</p><p>A sprinter on the <a href="https://goyeo.com/sports/mens-track-and-field" target="_blank">�鶹��Ƶ track & field team</a>, he earned two USTFCCCA All-Academic honors for the sport, and broke five school records during his career. </p><p>In fact, he currently holds four �鶹��Ƶ relay records, both indoor (4x200m and 4x400m) and outdoor (4x100m and 4x400m). </p><p>Now, Fechner is heading to Boston to become an analyst at the economic consulting firm Analysis Group, where he will be parsing big data sets related to client work.</p><p>“It was very exciting to get the job,” Fechner says. “It was exactly what I wanted.”</p><p>He learned about the Analysis Group thanks to his �鶹��Ƶ mentor and advisor, Associate Professor of Economics and Environmental Studies <a href="/paul-brehm" target="_blank" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="0b425ae3-159b-4795-8db5-22eeb3e6864e" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Paul Brehm">Paul Brehm</a>.</p><p>Brehm taught Fechner’s favorite class (Environmental Economics) and hired the student as a research assistant; among other things, Fechner analyzed wildfires as one cause of electric grid unreliability.</p><p>That work earned him a shout-out in a resulting <em>Journal of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists</em> paper, <a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/730158" target="_blank">“Backup Power: Public Implications of Private Substitutes for Electric Grid Reliability.”</a> </p><p>This experience “definitely sparked my interest further” in behavioral economics, Fechner says. “The econ faculty has just been amazing.”</p><p>In fact, while working on his honors project—an analysis of the connection between perceived risk and home sales after wildfires—he appreciated the department’s open-door policy. </p><p>“I’d see whoever was currently in their office and talk about all sorts of things,” he says, namechecking Professor of Economics <a href="/ron-cheung" target="_blank" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="bcbd17f3-9d64-446f-9e8c-03f8201c5d79" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Ron Cheung">Ron Cheung</a> as an example.</p><p>Thanks to such support, Fechner ended up receiving highest honors for the project.</p><p>As he looks back at his time at �鶹��Ƶ, he’s grateful for the experiences he had—and community he found—during college.</p><p>“I can hang out with my friends at practice and then after we all work hard on our homework,” he says. “It’s competitive, but everyone’s supportive of each other.”</p><hr><p><em>When you </em><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics"><em>major in economics at �鶹��Ƶ</em></a><em>, you’ll study the principles of economic theory as well as innovative approaches to problem solving in a rapidly changing world. Learn more about this academic option, which includes original research opportunities and faculty mentorship. </em><br><br><em>Kira Goldenberg is a writer, editor, and psychotherapist based in San Francisco.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Thanks to �鶹��Ƶ research opportunities and mentorship, Sam Fechner ’25 launches a career in economics.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-09-17T12:00:00Z">Wed, 09/17/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Kira Goldenberg</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p id="docs-internal-guid-7a730a9a-7fff-ee37-4824-0f810a1f4f34">When Sam Fechner ’25 started looking at colleges, he was eager to find a school where he could be both a serious scholar and a dedicated athlete.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2368">Alumni</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2360">After �鶹��Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3925">Economics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics" hreflang="und">Economics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones ’97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-article-header field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">0</div> </article> <article> <h1>Knocking It Out Of The Park</h1> <p>dfrezza — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:40:11 +0000</p> <span>Knocking It Out Of The Park</span> <span><span>dfrezza</span></span> <span><time datetime="2025-04-24T11:40:11-04:00" title="Thursday, April 24, 2025 - 11:40">Thu, 04/24/2025 - 11:40</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Last fall, Max Anastasio ’23 set himself a goal to find a new job in 2025. That ambition became a reality in February when he was hired by the Cincinnati Reds.</p> <p>“I just had my whole life picked up and rustled around,” he says. "I got the job offer and I packed all my stuff up, moved back home, and caught a flight out to Arizona for spring training.”</p> <p>Max has recently begun his first season as a performance affiliate coach for the Reds, working in tandem with the organization’s player development and sports science departments.</p> <p>“In my performance coach role, I do athlete monitoring,” he explains. “I’ll be in the weight room doing strength testing on players; we do a lot of grip strength and jump testing. I work with them to get those measurements and do reports to make sure that our athletes are not only staying healthy but also progressing. I’m also able to be on the field in full uniform and do the coaching aspect.” </p> <p>Max played first base for �鶹��Ƶ College’s varsity baseball team and continued his college sports career as he earned his MBA at Baldwin Wallace University. He’s delighted to be working in professional baseball now, calling the opportunity “a gift.”</p> <p>“I’m so lucky to have even been given this offer,” he says. “The coaching side of the job requires a lot of rapport that you need to build up with players, so working on that will make for a fun season of learning. I’ve been learning from the other coaches who have so much experience and have done this a million times before me, so I’ve been trying to soak up information from them.”</p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Max Anastasio, in his Cincinnati Reds uniform,<br> works for the organization both on and off the field.</figcaption> </figure> <p>Max’s position also requires him to play an analytical role, which he enjoys. </p> <p>“I pull the data of all the strength training we’ve ever collected on players and cross-reference that across similar position groups,” he says. “I can look at a player’s history and see how they’ve progressed during their time in the organization. So my main concern has been data-oriented: Are our players getting better at the rate we want them to get better?”</p> <p>Max got an introduction to this skill set during his time at �鶹��Ƶ. As an <a href="/node/3386">economics</a> and <a href="/node/3196">environmental studies</a> double major, he got his first taste of coding languages and data analysis in associate professor <a href="/node/43971">Paul Brehm</a>’s classroom.</p> <p>“Professor Brehm was such an awesome professor to have,” he says. “What I really enjoy about econ is the data analysis. I took his environmental economics and energy economics courses and those were what I enjoyed the most.” </p> <p>In true Obie fashion, Max is dedicated to growth and improvement, and believes camaraderie brings joint success.</p> <p>“I want to build up that rapport, résumé, and wealth of knowledge in my own head so I can be of use to the athletes I work with,” he says. “I want to keep developing myself and promoting my professional development for the foreseeable future.”</p> <p>Max also imparts some advice he learned from a grad school mentor, who discouraged him from accepting any career that felt like settling or compromising. </p> <p>“You could be making a sacrifice that you don’t necessarily want to make,” he says. “Do exactly what you want to do and don’t concede an inch on that.”</p> <hr> <p><em>If you’re excited about everything the future has in store, check out <a href="/node/4521">Career Exploration and Development</a> to learn how �鶹��Ƶ can help you turn your passions into a fulfilling career.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">From studying economics to MLB coaching, Max Anastasio '23 is paving his way with perseverance.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2025-04-28T12:00:00Z">Mon, 04/28/2025 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Danielle Frezza</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2360">After �鶹��Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3925">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4095">Environmental Studies</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2771">Athletics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4299">Baseball</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4300">MBA</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4301">Grad School</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics" hreflang="und">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/environmental-studies" hreflang="und">Environmental Studies and Science</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Steve Schooner</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Making a Difference with Business</h1> <p>lcurtis2 — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 21:03:05 +0000</p> <span>Making a Difference with Business</span> <span><span>lcurtis2</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-12-10T16:03:05-05:00" title="Tuesday, December 10, 2024 - 16:03">Tue, 12/10/2024 - 16:03</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Omukoko Okoth ’25 chose �鶹��Ƶ College for its values and opportunities, and to take advantage of all that �鶹��Ƶ has to offer, he decided to participate in the business integrative concentration.</p> <p>When entering college, Omukoko did not have a concrete plan about what he wanted to pursue, but he knew he wanted to make a positive difference in the world.</p> <p>“I chose �鶹��Ƶ because I believed one person could change the world, and I learned of �鶹��Ƶ's commitment to be the force of good in a world that craves hope, kindness, and shared prosperity,” he says.</p> <p>Besides this philosophy, he entered college with a completely open mind. He ended up choosing to declare an economics major. “I have learned about the interaction of the forces of demand and supply in a world of unlimited human wants and limited resources,” he says of his experience in the major. Then, he describes how he found himself pulled towards business.</p> <p>“As I gained exposure through my classes, interacting with peers, Winter Term projects, and reading, I appreciated the enormous significance of business in our society,” he says. He realized that business is threaded through many aspects of our world today, and that understanding it could better equip him to achieve his goals. </p> <p>While his major gave him an excellent grasp of economic concepts, taking business classes taught him how those concepts are applied across disciplines within complex, open-ended problem-solving. </p> <p>“Economics has given me a theoretical framework of understanding how businesses and individuals make decisions to optimize outcomes, while business has given me a practical case of those frameworks at play,” Omukoko says. </p> <p>What he learned in economics classes has complemented what he learned in business classes, and he is excited to graduate in the spring with a concentration in business. His interest in business is related to his upbringing. </p> <p>“My interest in business stems from recognizing the wide gap between capital and ideas,” he explains. “This is especially true for my home country, Kenya, where there is a young, brilliant, innovative, and entrepreneurial population whose exceptional ideas do not spring forth due to a lack of capital.”</p> <p>Omukoko feels motivated to improve upon this, using the knowledge he has gained in his classes. </p> <p>“I hope to learn more about business and economics, understand how capital flows, and use my knowledge and research to promote greater efficiency and mobility of capital,” he states.</p> <p>Not only is this his goal, but he is actively working towards it at present.</p> <p>“Thanks in part to business classes, today I run an organization called LeadAfrik,” he says. “It provides a mutual mentorship platform for university students in Kenya, equipping them with tools to take on the mantle of leadership with courage and adherence to values of excellence.”</p> <p>Because business at �鶹��Ƶ is all about turning learning into action, Omukoko can apply what he knows to doing something he cares about. He discusses his gratitude for what the business integrative concentration has taught him.</p> <p>“Beyond the knowledge I have acquired from my classes, business has enabled me to adopt a new way of thinking—where I am keen to notice where opportunities lie and, most importantly, think creatively about how to tap into those opportunities.”</p> <p>Want to know how you could make a difference with business? Explore what you could do with the business program at �鶹��Ƶ.</p> <p> </p> <hr> <p><em>Want to know how you could make a difference with business? Explore what you could do with the <a href="/node/322196">business</a> program at �鶹��Ƶ.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2024-12-10T12:00:00Z">Tue, 12/10/2024 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Lucy Curtis ’24</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Omukoko Okoth ’25 chose �鶹��Ƶ College for its values and opportunities, and in order to take advantage of all that �鶹��Ƶ has to offer, he decided to participate in the <a href="/node/322196">business integrative concentration</a>.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2402">Winter Term</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3925">Economics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=187731">Business</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/business" hreflang="und">Business</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics" hreflang="und">Economics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Omukoko Okoth ’25</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones ’97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Aahil Singh ’26 Turns Inspiration to Action</h1> <p>lcurtis2 — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 15:11:35 +0000</p> <span>Aahil Singh ’26 Turns Inspiration to Action</span> <span><span>lcurtis2</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-08-27T11:11:35-04:00" title="Tuesday, August 27, 2024 - 11:11">Tue, 08/27/2024 - 11:11</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>Describe what you’re doing this summer in your internship.</strong></p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-left"> <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Aahil Singh ’26</figcaption> </figure> <p>I spent this summer working on a transportation research paper under Professor Josh Davidson. My focus has been on measuring and improving accessibility to the transportation network, making it more equitable for people across different demographics. In particular, we looked at the concept of ‘Intercity Buses’ (imagine a bus running from Cleveland to Chicago, or from Boston to New York), and how likely people would be to take this bus instead of a flight, given that there are improvements in the current infrastructure that surround intercity buses. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>How did �鶹��Ƶ shape or influence you to pursue this internship?</strong></p> <p>�鶹��Ƶ is quite active in involving students during its faculty hiring process, so I had the opportunity to meet <a href="/node/414931">Professor Davidson</a> during his research presentation back in 2022, before he officially joined �鶹��Ƶ. Having already taken a few quantitative classes in statistics, math, and computer science, I was fascinated by how concepts from these disciplines came together in his work, and the impact it had on urban planning and transportation research. Despite not being able to take a class with him since he joined, �鶹��Ƶ’s intimate size made his office hours very accessible, helping us keep in touch over the course of the academic year. Our ongoing relationship made it possible for us to talk about research topics that had scope for further analysis, and thus came about this project to examine intercity buses.</p> <p><strong>How does pursuing this internship align with your post-college life and career goals?</strong></p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Aahil Singh ’26</figcaption> </figure> <p>Pursuing this internship aligns perfectly with my post-college goals, as I'm potentially aiming to go to graduate school in economics and/or data science. I’ve always enjoyed examining issues from a quantitative lens, and my work in data science this summer deepened that passion. The interdisciplinarity of the field not only sharpened my technical skills, but also reinforced my commitment to using data to tackle complex economic problems, bringing me closer to my career aspirations.</p> <p><strong>How has the liberal arts education and way of thinking shaped how you approach science and research?</strong></p> <p>�鶹��Ƶ’s liberal arts education, with its emphasis on interdisciplinary thinking, has deeply shaped how I approach science and research. This summer, my research exemplified this mindset. Instead of viewing the idea of ‘accessibility’ to transport systems (in this case, intercity buses) purely through the technical lens of data analysis, my research integrated insights from economics, psychology, urban planning, and other disciplines to inform my analysis and methodology. This approach has not only enriched my research but also allowed me to address the problems I’m studying in a more holistic and innovative way.</p> <p><em>If you're interested in a summer internship, connect with the <a href="/node/4521">Career Exploration & Development</a> team to learn more about exploring career interests, gaining real-world experience, and developing a professional network.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2024-10-14T12:00:00Z">Mon, 10/14/2024 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>After being fascinated with the research of <a href="/node/414931">Assistant Professor of Statistics and Data Science Joshua H. Davidson ’12</a>, Aahil Singh ’26 decided to pursue a similar project. As a double major in <a href="/node/3371">mathematics</a> and <a href="/node/3386">economics</a> with a <a href="/node/84821">statistical modeling</a> minor and <a href="/node/413401">data science</a> concentration, Aahil appreciates how concepts can cross disciplines. Through <a href="/node/54286">Summer Experience Funding</a>, over the summer he worked on a research paper with Professor Davidson on the subject of transportation. </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4140">Summer Experience Funding</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4096">Summer Internships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4150">Mathematics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3925">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4151">Data Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2403">Career Exploration & Development</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=84821">Statistical Modeling</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-faculty field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/joshua-h-davidson" hreflang="und">Joshua H. Davidson ’12</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/mathematics" hreflang="und">Mathematics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics" hreflang="und">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/data-science" hreflang="und">Data Science</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Aahil Singh ’26 presents his summer research.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">courtesy of Aahil Singh ’26</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Get Down to Business with Cole Tashjian ’25</h1> <p>lcurtis2 — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 18:28:57 +0000</p> <span>Get Down to Business with Cole Tashjian ’25</span> <span><span>lcurtis2</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-08-30T14:28:57-04:00" title="Friday, August 30, 2024 - 14:28">Fri, 08/30/2024 - 14:28</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>Describe what you’re doing this summer in your internship</strong></p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-left"> <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Cole Tashjian ’25</figcaption> </figure> <p>I was a fixed income trading intern at Invesco. A majority of what I learned was from shadowing fixed income, foreign exchange, and alternatives traders. However, my projects revolved around providing analytics and insights to the team. Throughout the course of the internship, I developed an in-house app using Python, SQL Server, and Streamlit for FX trade analysis reporting and re-architected a dashboard for the global capital markets team to track trade efficiency and revenue generation. </p> <p><strong>How did �鶹��Ƶ shape or influence you to pursue this internship? </strong></p> <p>The �鶹��Ƶ Finance Club was instrumental in solidifying my interest in finance. Surrounding myself with like minded peers meant I could continue learning outside of the classroom through the clubs weekly meetings. Academically, <a href="/node/417886">Professor M. Udara Peiris</a> has been an extremely valuable resource for me. His improvement of the financial economics curriculum and embracing of students' questions/thoughts has benefitted the school as a whole.</p> <p><strong>How does pursuing this internship align with your post-college life and career goals?</strong></p> <p>This past summer, I wanted a markets-based role. Invesco provided the opportunity to experience this with the backing and support of a great team. I have been able to leverage the experience into a full-time job offer I accepted as a Global Investment Banking Analyst at UBS in New York City upon graduation.</p> <p><strong>What business-related opportunities have you had at �鶹��Ƶ that you’ve found to be unique or helpful? </strong></p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-right"> <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Cole Tashjian ’25</figcaption> </figure> <p>Outside of the extracurriculars and coursework I have completed, the <a href="/node/54566">Ashby Business Scholars Program</a> was an important piece of my time at �鶹��Ƶ. The program offered me the opportunity to go through intensive coursework surrounding finance topics for 4 months and culminated in meeting alums in the field in Cleveland, Boston, and New York City. The major takeaway from the program that I got was, all Obies are willing and happy to help one another. This provided me with further confidence to reach out to alums and learn about their careers paths/current roles.</p> <p><strong>Knowing that you’re interested in pursuing business/finance, what made you choose �鶹��Ƶ to help you reach that goal? </strong></p> <p>When applying to colleges, I knew that I wanted a liberal arts education. �鶹��Ƶ provides the emphasis on the creative thinking, problem solving component of liberal arts whilst embracing alternative routes toward finance with specific Wall Street programs like the Ashby Business Scholars. This mix of liberal arts and finance focus played extremely well into my interests and attracted me to the college.</p> <p><em>If you're interested in a summer internship, connect with the <a href="/node/4521">Career Exploration & Development</a> team to learn more about exploring career interests, gaining real-world experience, and developing a professional network.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2024-10-11T12:00:00Z">Fri, 10/11/2024 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Cole Tashjian ’25 knew what he wanted when he came to �鶹��Ƶ College, and got down to business to achieve it. As an <a href="/node/3386">economics</a> major with minors in <a href="/node/3236">computer science</a> and <a href="/node/3371">mathematics</a>, he set himself up well to go into finance. This summer, he interned at Invesco, and used it as a stepping stone to set up his future career. Here, Cole talks about his role and successes.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4096">Summer Internships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3925">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4153">Computer Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4150">Mathematics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4147">�鶹��Ƶ Finance Club</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2403">Career Exploration & Development</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-faculty field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/m-udara-peiris" hreflang="und">M. Udara Peiris</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics" hreflang="und">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/computer-science" hreflang="und">Computer Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/mathematics" hreflang="und">Mathematics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Cole Tashjian ’25 and other interns show their completion certificates at Invesco.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">courtesy of Cole Tashjian ’25</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Moe Ariyoshi ’26 on Morals and Technology</h1> <p>lcurtis2 — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 14:35:36 +0000</p> <span>Moe Ariyoshi ’26 on Morals and Technology</span> <span><span>lcurtis2</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-09-04T10:35:36-04:00" title="Wednesday, September 4, 2024 - 10:35">Wed, 09/04/2024 - 10:35</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><strong>Describe what you’re doing this summer in your internship.</strong></p> <p>This summer at Carnegie India, I am working as a summer assistant to provide senior research analysts with briefings on various topics including international trade and technology corporations, border conflicts and infrastructure, multilateral relationships with India, India's political economy, and other international think tank organizations. </p> <p><strong>How did �鶹��Ƶ shape or influence you to pursue this internship? </strong></p> <figure class="captioned-image obj-left"> <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Moe Ariyoshi ’26</figcaption> </figure> <p>In the Spring 2024 semester, I took <a href="/node/6201">Professor Marc Blecher's</a> POLT 212 Political Economy of Development in Asia, in which we discussed the development of 5 main Asian economies: Japan, India, China, South Korea and Taiwan. In a different class offered by Professor Rudabeh Shahid, I examined the politics of citizenship in India, Myanmar and the United States. The two classes captured my interest to take a closer look at India to experience how the nation with a history and culture over 4000 years, the largest population on Earth, and a world class military, is growing its international presence. My professors at �鶹��Ƶ have taught me how to look at the world in a greater context, but in this summer assistantship at Carnegie India, I wanted to learn from watching closely what analysts at the frontlines of the foreign policy research experience.</p> <p><strong>How does pursuing this internship align with your post-college life and career goals?</strong></p> <p>As a computer science major, my career goals focused mainly on the development of technologies. However, at Carnegie India, I was able to see how policy studies perceive and attempt to govern technology, an important aspect for both private lives but also national power. This summer assistantship has allowed me to become aware of the consequences of development and its impact on the prosperity of the international community.</p> <p><strong>How has the liberal arts education and way of thinking shaped how you approach research?</strong></p> <p>The liberal arts education and way of thinking helped me better understand the role and implications of technology development, whether it is to empower individuals or secure national power. The liberal arts education has equipped me with the right moral responsibility as an engineer with good goals and intentions for development that will enable individuals mobility while ensuring its right use.</p> <p><em>If you're interested in a summer internship, connect with the <a href="/node/4521">Career Exploration & Development</a> team to learn more about exploring career interests, gaining real-world experience, and developing a professional network.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2024-10-11T12:00:00Z">Fri, 10/11/2024 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Moe Ariyoshi ’26 had a meaningful summer at Carnegie India through <a href="/node/54286">Summer Experience Funding</a>. At �鶹��Ƶ, she is a <a href="/node/3236">computer science</a> major with a double minor in <a href="/node/3391">politics</a> and <a href="/node/3386">economics</a>, and concentrations in <a href="/node/245971">international affairs</a> and <a href="/node/413401">data science</a>. Here, they reflect on how �鶹��Ƶ shaped their morals. </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4096">Summer Internships</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4140">Summer Experience Funding</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4153">Computer Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4154">Politics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3925">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4151">Data Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2403">Career Exploration & Development</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-faculty field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/marc-blecher" hreflang="und">Marc Blecher</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/computer-science" hreflang="und">Computer Science</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/politics" hreflang="und">Politics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics" hreflang="und">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/data-science" hreflang="und">Data Science</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">The view from Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable roads in the world, where Moe Ariyoshi ’26 was able to travel during her summer at Carnegie India.</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">courtesy of Moe Ariyoshi ’26</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Accelerating beyond �鶹��Ƶ College into a finance career</h1> <p>mreed — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 14:52:16 +0000</p> <span>Accelerating beyond �鶹��Ƶ College into a finance career</span> <span><span>mreed</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-10-04T10:52:16-04:00" title="Friday, October 4, 2024 - 10:52">Fri, 10/04/2024 - 10:52</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>As a double major in <a href="/node/3371">mathematics</a> and <a href="/node/3386">economics</a> with a minor in <a href="/node/84821">statistical modeling</a>, and a leader on the �鶹��Ƶ Women’s Soccer team, Samantha began her journey into private equity while at �鶹��Ƶ College. Initially entering �鶹��Ƶ with different academic interests, she soon discovered a passion for math and economics through the college’s interdisciplinary curriculum. In the spring of her sophomore year, she enrolled in Principles of Finance, which explored the intersection of quantitative analysis and the tactical application of social science. </p> <p>Her involvement in the <a href="https://osfic.squarespace.com/">�鶹��Ƶ Finance Club</a> introduced Samantha to the principles of investing firsthand, which was a catalyst for exploring a career in business and finance through �鶹��Ƶ’s <a href="/node/54566">Ashby Business Scholars Program</a>. The Ashby Business Program provides students access to additional finance-focused resources and connects them with a broad network of Obies working in the industry. </p> <p>Through the Ashby Program, she met alums working in various fields across the Northeast and Cleveland, including a private equity firm in New York, The Riverside Company. In the summer of her junior year, Samantha interned as an analyst for Riverside’s growth equity and debt fund, Riverside Acceleration Capital (RAC). RAC focuses on high-growth, software-as-a-service B2B companies. During her internship, she was able to apply the quantitative, research, and problem-solving skills that she developed in the classroom. Samantha enjoyed the collaborative and results-oriented environment and is excited to return to RAC as a full-time analyst following graduation. </p> <p>Reflecting on her journey, Samantha says, "All of my experiences at �鶹��Ƶ have led to this opportunity. The liberal arts thinking, practical finance experience, and the powerful Ashby business network truly opened the door for my position at Riverside."</p> <p> </p> <hr> <p> </p> <p><em>Ready to make an impact with your education and career? Explore <a href="/node/468170">financial economics</a> at �鶹��Ƶ to learn how you can change the world, one finance class at a time.</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Samantha Gilfond ’25 accepts private equity analyst placement at Riverside Acceleration Capital</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2024-10-03T12:00:00Z">Thu, 10/03/2024 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Communications Staff</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Samantha is excited about her next steps after �鶹��Ƶ as she joins Riverside Acceleration Capital.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3519">Early Careers</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3925">Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2360">After �鶹��Ƶ</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3955">Ashby Business Scholars</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=4147">�鶹��Ƶ Finance Club</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-programs field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=468171">Financial Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?program=25401">Mathematics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/finance" hreflang="und">Financial Economics</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/mathematics" hreflang="und">Mathematics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Office of Communications</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Getting Down to Business</h1> <p>azaleski — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 18:06:32 +0000</p> <span>Getting Down to Business</span> <span><span>azaleski</span></span> <span><time datetime="2024-01-05T13:06:32-05:00" title="Friday, January 5, 2024 - 13:06">Fri, 01/05/2024 - 13:06</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>The program consists of a fall course that combines hands-on experience around financial concepts with professional development and a Winter Term trip to various cities to meet and learn from �鶹��Ƶ alumni and friends who are leaders in the fields of <a href="/career/career-communities/finance-business-and-consulting" target="_blank">business, consulting, and finance</a>. </p> <p>As the <a href="/career/set/obs" target="_blank">Ashby Business Scholars program</a> celebrates 20 years, five current and former participants share what they’ve learned from the program—and how it’s shaped their career paths.</p> <hr> <p><strong>Adrian Alvarado ’24<br> Major:</strong> Economics<br> <strong>Hometown:</strong> Chicago<br> <strong>Other campus activities:</strong> Intramural basketball, Los Amigos de Apoyo, Peer Career Advisor</p> <p><strong>Why did you decide to apply to be an Ashby Business Scholar?</strong><br> I knew that the program would provide me with insights into many financial-related jobs in the industry. I also met many alumni who helped our cohort better understand the recruitment process and the skills that are needed to thrive in the financial industry.</p> <p><strong>What’s been the most surprising or unexpected thing about the program?</strong><br> I loved the ability to interact with alums and ask them questions regarding plans within the industry, along with activities that enabled them to know themselves better, personally and professionally.</p> <p><strong>As of now, what are your post-graduation plans?</strong><br> After graduation, I will be working in New York at Citibank in their Personal Banking rotational program.<br> <br> <strong>Has participating in the program changed your career plans at all—or the classes you’ve decided to take going forward? If so, how?</strong><br> Yes, I realized that there are many opportunities for all types of people within finance. I realized that I want to pursue community development-related work that combines my finance expertise in the future.<br> <br> <strong>What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received so far in the program?</strong><br> Build an environment where inquisitiveness is encouraged.</p> <hr> <p><strong>Bridget Adu-Dapaah ’25<br> Majors: </strong>Economics & Business concentration<br> <strong>Hometown: </strong>Chicago<br> <strong>Other campus activities: </strong>Social Entrepreneurship fellow, co-founder of Women and Non-Binary in Finance & Economics, America Reads tutor, member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, Posse Scholar</p> <p><strong>Why did you decide to apply to be an Ashby Business Scholar? </strong><br> I knew it was a program focused on careers in finance and business. Before coming to �鶹��Ƶ, I knew that I wanted a career in finance, so that helped with my decision. Secondly, I spoke to former scholars, and they shared how the program was life-changing as they highlighted the invaluable opportunities to network with �鶹��Ƶ alums who had navigated similar career paths and emphasized the program’s role in enhancing social skills.<br> <br> <strong>Now that you’re involved in the program, what specific aspect has been most helpful to you – and why?</strong><br> The power of networking. Establishing connections with individuals who have experienced similar environments can be incredibly fulfilling. Through my interactions with �鶹��Ƶ alums, I gained advice on career goals and recommendations on specific classes that could enhance my academic journey at �鶹��Ƶ. This has helped me immensely because it opens doors to more opportunities and broader networking possibilities. Ultimately, there is always a connection to be made with someone with insights into the industry you’re interested in pursuing.</p> <p><strong>What’s been the most surprising or unexpected thing about the program?</strong><br> The diversity of the financial institutions we visited. Not all were traditional banks; some were dedicated to social impact initiatives like affordable housing programs. Others were businesses that specialized in business within the entertainment industry.<br> <br> <strong>As of now, what are your post-graduation plans? </strong><br> I intend to pursue a career in either wealth management or private equity and have plans to attend law school.<br> <br> <strong>Has participating in the program changed your career plans or the classes you’ve decided to take going forward? If so, how?</strong><br> At first, I had a preference for working on the trading floor. However, after visiting one institution and having the opportunity to ask questions and observe the floor, my perspective changed. The program also exposed me to various other areas within finance that captured my interest. Additionally, I’ve taken courses outside of my major to enhance my skills and focus on developing a well-rounded understanding.</p> <p><strong>What’s the best advice you’ve received so far in the program?</strong><br> Network and try new things. Although you may be interested in a particular area, you don’t want to limit yourself, as trying new things can open other opportunities.</p> <hr> <p><strong>Samantha Gilfond ’25</strong><br> <strong>Majors: </strong>Mathematics and Economics<br> <strong>Hometown:</strong> New York<br> <strong>Other campus activities: </strong>Women’s varsity soccer, �鶹��Ƶ Finance & Investment Club, economic research assistant</p> <p><strong>Why did you decide to apply to be an Ashby Business Scholar? </strong><br> I was very interested in building a well-rounded skill set that I can apply after I graduate. Furthermore, the program focuses on exposing scholars to different sides of business and finance, which allows participants to discover and explore genuine areas of interest. </p> <p><strong>Now that you’re involved in the program, what specific aspect has been most helpful to you – and why?</strong><br> The program has given me access to a business and finance class with Case Western Reserve University’s Director of Investments. This class has allowed me to focus on the key aspects of business and finance that I have not been exposed to in my general classes. The class emphasizes hands-on learning through case studies, informational interviews, and group work, all of which simulate real-world experiences that we will be exposed to in the workplace.</p> <p><strong>What’s been the most surprising or unexpected thing about the program?</strong><br> How intimate and hands-on it is. With only 13 people in the program, it fosters a tight-knit community. Although this surprised me, it is also one of my favorite aspects of the program. </p> <p><strong>As of now, what are your post-graduation plans? </strong><br> I am planning on working in New York City, hopefully in a mathematics-orientated, finance-related field. I am also considering going to graduate school to continue to study either math or economics, but am excited to explore future job opportunities.</p> <p><strong>Has participating in the program changed your career plans at all—or the classes you’ve decided to take going forward? If so, how?</strong><br> It hasn't changed my career plans, but has definitely solidified them through exposing me to the wide breadth of opportunities that finance has to offer. </p> <p><strong>What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received so far in the program?</strong><br> Give 100 percent of your effort, because you never get the same opportunity twice.</p> <hr> <p><strong>Willem Chojnicki ’25</strong><br> <strong>Majors: </strong>Economics & Psychology with Business concentration<br> <strong>Hometown: </strong>Gainesville, Fla.<br> <strong>Other campus activities:</strong> �鶹��Ƶ Finance & Investment Club, football<br> <br> <strong>Why did you decide to apply to be an Ashby Business Scholar?</strong><br> I wanted to learn from the best in the field of finance. The program offers a unique opportunity to tour around the country and connect with �鶹��Ƶ alumni who have made remarkable achievements and contributions in their industry and I wanted to hear about their experiences and insights. Moreover, I wanted to gain valuable skills and knowledge from the program, such as financial analysis, communication, and leadership. I am thrilled to be part of this program and I am confident that it will help me achieve my career goals and make a positive impact in the world of finance.</p> <p><strong>Now that you’re involved in the program, what specific aspect has been most helpful to you – and why?</strong><br> The access to a network of �鶹��Ƶ alumni. They have made a significant impact on my growth and development by sharing their insights and experiences in the finance industry. I have learned a lot from talking to alumni who have taught me about financial modeling, consulting, and data analysis. To be able to talk with so many alumni in the finance industry who also went to �鶹��Ƶ illustrates how small of a world we live in.</p> <p><strong>What’s been the most surprising or unexpected thing about the program?</strong><br> The faculty and alumni are generous, supportive, and intellectually passionate. They have provided me with invaluable resources and opportunities, such as access to online databases, mock interviews, and internships. They have also shown their generosity, support, and passion by giving me feedback, advice, and encouragement on my projects, assignments, and career goals. Additionally, they've shared how they have overcome challenges and achieved success, which has inspired me to pursue my interests and passions, as well as make a positive difference in the world. I am proud to be part of this community.</p> <p><strong>As of now, what are your post-graduation plans?</strong><br> I am excited to hopefully receive a full-time offer to work in Syndicated Corporate Finance Banking at Raymond James. It’s one of the leading investment banks in the U.S., with a strong reputation and a diverse client base with a culture of integrity, independence, and innovation, which resonates with my values and aspirations.<br> <br> <strong>Has participating in the program changed your career plans at all—or the classes you’ve decided to take going forward? If so, how?</strong><br> It hasn't changed my career plans, but rather confirmed and strengthened them. I've gained more confidence in the knowledge, skills, and abilities that I acquired through my classes at �鶹��Ƶ. I have learned how to apply what I have learned in the classroom to real-world scenarios and challenges in the finance industry. The program has also exposed me to various aspects and opportunities in finance and helped me identify my strengths and interests. I am eager to pursue a career in finance and use my education and experience to make a positive impact.</p> <p><strong>What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received so far in the program?</strong><br> Be intellectually curious and open-minded. The world of finance is vast and ever evolving, and my curiosity will keep me ahead. I always ask questions and seek to understand how things work. With this advice, I have learned how to use different financial databases, how to analyze various types of risks, and how to communicate effectively with my fellow scholars. These aspects have motivated and led me and my peers in the program to achieve success in the future.</p> <hr> <p><strong>Michael Dinkel ’26<br> Major:</strong> Economics<br> <strong>Hometown: </strong>Silver Spring, Md.<br> <strong>Other campus activities: </strong>Varsity lacrosse, �鶹��Ƶ Finance & Investment Club, bowling league</p> <p><strong>Why did you decide to apply to be an Ashby Business Scholar?</strong><br> I first heard about the Ashby Business Scholars program at a career center information session about pursuing a career in finance at �鶹��Ƶ. After the session, I talked with one of my lacrosse teammates who had participated in the program and learned how helpful it was for him. Once I knew I wanted to pursue a career in finance at the start of my second semester in my first year, I decided to apply because being able to meet with alumni and make connections within the field I wanted to go into was one of the best opportunities I could gain from �鶹��Ƶ. </p> <p><strong>Now that you’re involved in the program, what specific aspect has been most helpful to you – and why?</strong><br> Getting the chance to travel and meet alumni during Winter Term this year will be the most helpful. I am looking forward to learning about different opportunities and career paths coming from �鶹��Ƶ, as well as being able to get general advice from successful alums.</p> <p><strong>What’s been the most surprising or unexpected thing about the program?</strong><br> The level of fun that I’ve had within the program. While still managing to be productive, I have found interacting with the other scholars during and outside of classes to be enjoyable and has made me look forward to traveling with them. </p> <p><strong>As of now, what are your post-graduation plans? </strong><br> I’m looking to pursue a career in finance. Currently, I’m thinking about investment banking or equity research. </p> <p><strong>Has participating in the program changed your career plans at all—or the classes you’ve decided to take going forward? If so, how?</strong><br> It hasn’t changed my plans, but it has reinforced them. I applied because of my interest in finance, and participating in the program has made me more excited to pursue a career in the field. </p> <p><strong>What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received so far in the program?</strong><br> The advice I have received on how to present myself in a professional setting has been one of the best parts of the program because it wasn’t something I have had a lot of training on in the past. I have noticed that I am now more comfortable and feel better prepared to be in these settings.</p> <p><em>All headshots by Tanya Rosen-Jones '97, except Adrian Alvarado (courtesy of Adrian Alvarado) and</em> <em>Bridget Adu-Dapaah (courtesy of Bridget Adu-Dapaah).</em></p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">How the Ashby Business Scholars program gives Obies a career boost</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2024-01-05T12:00:00Z">Fri, 01/05/2024 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Annie Zaleski</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>For �鶹��Ƶ students interested in business and finance, the Ashby Business Scholars program offers invaluable insights into what it’s like to work in these fields.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3955">Ashby Business Scholars</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3349">Business Concentration</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3925">Economics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/business" hreflang="und">Business</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics" hreflang="und">Economics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">The 2023-2024 Ashby Business Scholars</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Tanya Rosen-Jones '97</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> <article> <h1>Dr. Menna Demessie ’02 Wins Black Music Action Coalition Social Impact Award</h1> <p>azaleski — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 18:11:12 +0000</p> <span>Dr. Menna Demessie ’02 Wins Black Music Action Coalition Social Impact Award</span> <span><span>azaleski</span></span> <span><time datetime="2023-09-28T14:11:12-04:00" title="Thursday, September 28, 2023 - 14:11">Thu, 09/28/2023 - 14:11</time> </span> <div class="text-content field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Dr. Demessie—a member of �鶹��Ƶ’s Board of Trustees and the Senior Vice President and Executive Director of Universal Music Group’s global <a href="https://www.universalmusic.com/umgs-task-force-for-meaningful-change/" target="_blank">Task Force for Meaningful Change</a> (TFMC)—received the honor at the 2023 BMAC Gala. Other BMAC Social Impact Award winners include Emmy-winning actress-singer-songwriter-producer Keke Palmer and Emmy-winning producer Jesse Collins.</p> <p>Established in June 2020 by Universal Music Group Chairman and CEO Sir Lucian Grainge, the TFMC takes a multi-pronged approach “to amplify and expand UMG’s current programs, devise new initiatives and support marginalized communities in the ongoing fight for equality, justice and inclusion,” according to its website. </p> <p>Dr. Demessie joined UMG in December 2020. Under her leadership, the label group has implemented trust-based philanthropy that centers unrestricted donations to nonprofits servicing the Black community and other marginalized groups across the nation and globe. With criminal justice reform as the founding focus priority, UMG has also prioritized organizations standing in the gap of racial disparities in music, public health, voting, education, and more.</p> <p>“There has always been a blueprint for positive, substantial change,” Dr. Demessie says, “and our resources go further when we educate ourselves on the leaders, organizations, and communities making this change and supporting them.”</p> <p>Prior to joining UMG, Dr. Demessie spent a decade running the Center for Policy Analysis and Research for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF). While there, she completed the first empirical and qualitative study analyzing the instrumental role Congressional Black Caucus members played in U.S.-Africa foreign policy through the analysis of African congressional caucuses in the U.S. House of Representatives.</p> <p>Born in Cleveland, Ohio, Dr. Demessie graduated with honors from �鶹��Ƶ, with a double major in <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics" target="_blank">economics</a> and <a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/law-and-society" target="_blank">law & society</a>. As senior class president, she also gave a commencement speech. She later earned a joint PhD in public policy and political science from the University of Michigan. Dr. Demessie is also currently on adjunct faculty for the University of California Washington Center and the University of Michigan, where she teaches courses in race and ethnic politics, American government, political advocacy, and Black Lives Matter, and mentors several college students and policy interns.</p> <p>In addition to her award from the BMAC, Dr. Demessie also received a Black Star Award from <a href="https://10years.africans.us" target="_blank">African Communities Together</a> during a ceremony held on September 28 in Washington, D.C.<br> <br> For more information on the Black Music Action Coalition 2023 Gala, read a recap in <a href="https://variety.com/2023/music/musicians/lizzo-sylvia-rhone-keke-palmer-black-music-action-coalition-bmac-2023-1235732482/" target="_blank"><em>Variety</em></a>.</p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-subhead field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">The honor was one of two major awards the Cleveland-born scholar activist received this week</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-type field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item">News Story</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item"><time datetime="2023-09-28T12:00:00Z">Thu, 09/28/2023 - 12:00</time> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Office of Communications</div> <div class="text-content field field--name-field-intro-text field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p>On September 21, the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) awarded Dr. Menna Demessie ’02 with the organization’s prestigious Social Impact Award. </p></div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=2368">Alumni</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3924">Law and Society</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/news?tag=3925">Economics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-departments field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/law-and-society" hreflang="und">Law and Society</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/arts-and-sciences/departments/economics" hreflang="und">Economics</a></div> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-caption field--type-string-long field--label-hidden field__item">Dr. Menna Demessie '02 pictured at the 2023 Black Music Action Coalition gala</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-pin-school-page field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">Off</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-photo-gallery-top field--type-boolean field--label-hidden field__item">false</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-image-credit field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Courtesy of Dr. Menna Demessie</div> <div class="field field--name-field-news-media field--type-entity-reference field--label-hidden field__item"> </div> </article> </main></body></html>