Nusrat Ara Begum

Medical Assistant, Ezra Medical Center

Class of 2023
BBA in Business Management / BS in Pre-Nursing (double major)

Member Of: Cosmetology Club, Pforzheimer Honors College Programming Community, Beta Alpha Psi, Dean’s List

Nusrat Ara is a rising star from the class of 2023. With concentrations in Business Management and Pre-Nursing, Ara found that she has a unique point of view on career development, which has led her to pursue her passions with incredible motivation. Before she even step foot in Pace University, this go-getter already had plans of starting a student organization, the Cosmetology Club, which has become a very successful hub for students looking to learn more about skincare and makeup. She has also been active on campus in many other ways. She participated in the Beta Alpha Psi Atlantic Coast Regional Meeting Best Practices Competition, where the Pace University team won 1st place for team innovation!

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

When I attended Pace University's Open House in 2019, I knew right away that there were amazing opportunities offered at the Lubin School of Business. I was intrigued by the large variety of programs available to students and I appreciated Lubin's efforts to host networking events often, encouraging students to develop connections with professionals. This was something I knew I would take advantage of. The cherry on top of enrolling at Lubin is its location in New York City. I love to be in a fast-paced environment surrounded by people who are striving to accomplish their goals and dreams. It motivates me to work harder and serves as a reminder to persevere because it is those who work hard who will prosper.

You started the first Cosmetology Club at Pace; tell us a bit about the motivation behind that idea and how it is enriching the student experience on campus.

It all started in 8th grade when I would play with my mother's Maybelline liquid eyeliner to create a cat-eye look. As I grew older, I was intrigued by the idea of using makeup as a form of self-expression. After I graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School, I knew I did not want to let go of my hobby once I started college, so I searched for ways in which I could bring my passion to the Pace University campus. I was eager to start this community so that I could meet people who share the same passion. Before my first semester even started, I was already inquiring about what I needed to do in order to start and run my very own student club. Thanks to the guidance of Jaclyn Kopel, director, Pforzheimer Honors College, the Cosmetology Club at Pace University exists today. The club's goal is to use makeup as a medium to promote empowerment, self-care, self-love, diversity, and inclusivity. We are 100% committed to achieving this goal by fostering a loving community that welcomes absolutely everyone, regardless of gender identity, race, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, etc. Some members find the meetings and events we host to be therapeutic or fun, as they can spend time doing what they love with others! This club is brand new and I am excited to see it grow and leave a bigger impact on Pace University.

You are also on the Pforzheimer Honors College's Programming Committee on the NYC campus. What have you learned from that experience so far?

Despite all the stress and hard work that goes into the time-consuming process of planning on-campus events, I genuinely enjoy having an idea and being able to make it come to life with support from my team. In the Fall of 2019, my favorite event to help plan was "Harry Potter Movie Night." I loved to see how everyone on the Programming Committee transformed the creative ideas we brainstormed together into a reality. Event planning has taught me how to use limited resources in a creative way and how to make an every-day lecture hall look like a Hogwarts classroom. I found that the challenges that we overcame along the way made event planning fun and exciting! Under high pressure and fast paced circumstances, we are forced to come up with inventive and new ways to work around the problems we encounter.

One day I'm figuring out how to balance an accounting spreadsheet and the next day I'm balancing chemical equations. However, it is great being a business student who is simultaneously completing the pre-nursing track because I am able to make a lot of connections with what I am learning in business-related classes and apply them to what I am learning in healthcare-related classes and vice versa.

What is it like to be a business student who is also completing the pre-nursing track?

It is quite difficult, as I find myself multitasking every day and absorbing plenty of knowledge from two different fields. One day I'm figuring out how to balance an accounting spreadsheet and the next day I'm balancing chemical equations. However, it is great being a business student who is simultaneously completing the pre-nursing track because I am able to make a lot of connections with what I am learning in business-related classes and apply them to what I am learning in healthcare-related classes and vice versa. Taking this route has taught me the importance of having good time management skills, being able to deal with stress wisely, and making sure I dedicate days to myself so I can avoid burnout.

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

College really is what YOU make of it. As the saying goes, "It's not about the cards you've been dealt, but how you play your hand." So, play your cards wisely by taking advantage of what is offered to you here at Pace University. It's all about making the most out of your experience here. Whether it be Fall Festival, a job fair, or a club meeting, you should make time to attend these types of events because being present at them could give you the opportunity to develop skills you may have not learned in class or you may even discover new interests.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

To me #LubinLife means growth. The unique culture at Lubin really pushes students to reach their full potential by providing necessary resources and opportunities. By taking advantage of what Lubin offers, I see myself growing as a person every day as I find myself absorbing knowledge from different classes, trying to help others through the Cosmetology Club, and making new friends on campus!

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An Art History/Psychology major and first-gen honors student, Maruszewski speaks about merging the arts and sciences.

What attracted you to Pace?

I chose to attend Pace because I adored how much the school focused on what happens after college, rather than solely on what happens inside the classroom. It was one of the first colleges I had ever seen that emphasizes learning outside the classroom, which I strongly believe in.

Why did you decide to pursue a double major in art history and psychology?

Ever since I was little, I knew I wanted to help people in some way, and psychology seemed the best way that I could. Art history fell into my hands rather unexpectedly, after I was asked to choose a Learning Community course for my first semester. I thought it sounded interesting, so I picked Art History and History with professors [Janetta] Benton and [Jaclyn] Kopel. Professor Benton made me fall head over heels in love with art history, so I decided to take on another major.

My favorite part about being a Dyson student is getting to meet people from both the arts and the sciences, and seeing how those two disciplines coexist.

My favorite part about being a dyson student is getting to meet people from both the arts and the sciences, and seeing how those two disciplines coexist.

In your view, how is the study of art different from that of science?

I think studying art is more the study of the past, as in, studying what other people have created before, in the hope of interpreting the future. With science, it's studying principles in the hopes of explaining the ever-present phenomena of the universe, the past, the present, and the future. Both carry the same discipline of using truthful evidence to learn ideas, which I think is missed by many people. I think there is science to art and art to science, meaning that one can't exist without the other. For example, medicine is a science, but requires a human, artistic element to be done well. Art is more of an instinctual interpretation of facts, and science is more of a numerical interpretation.

You were born in the United States, but grew up mostly in Poland. Tell us about your journey to where you are today.

I was born in Boca Raton, Florida, but soon after moved with my parents back to Poland. When I returned to the United States when I was fifteen, it was a huge culture shock for me. Thankfully, while in Poland, I attended an international school, so I spoke English very well. However, everything from how people dressed, to how they talked, and what they talked about was completely different. I did not even know what a Pop-Tart was, and my accent was very telling. It took me quite a while to get the hang of everything and navigate around social circles. I still see the differences, but I’ve learned how to interpret those around me and what they are saying. It feels like those two very different parts of the world coexist within me now.

As a first-generation college student, how have you navigated the challenges of higher education?

I was fortunate enough to be introduced to American culture in high school, which provided me with an easy transition into college. Attending Pace has been [similar to attending] high school in Poland, in the sense of having a block schedule, as well as the style of teaching and test taking, such as non-multiple-choice tests. To me, it felt like home!

What would you like to do upon graduation?

After graduation, I am hoping to enter a career in forensic psychology. As of right now, I am not entirely sure about a specific profession, but that's what college is for! My plan is to either be a counselor working in corrections, specifically, juvenile facilities, or to work with the police to offer forensic insight from a psychological perspective.

Do you have any advice for your fellow students?

My advice to current students would be to treat electives as a way to explore what they haven't thought to explore, because you never know what you can find along the way.

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Aissatou Gnigue

Consulting Associate - Transformation Delivery (PMO), KPMG; Delegate, United Nations

Class of 2023
BBA/MBA in Public Accounting / BA in Political Science (double major) with a minor in Pre-Law

Member Of: American Marketing Association, Beta Alpha Psi, National Society of Leadership and Success, Dean's List

Meet Aissatou, a student whose go-getter attitude landed her a coveted fellowship with the United Nations (UN). Aissatou, who is a double major in Public Accounting and Political Science with a minor in Pre-Law, puts her passion for positively impacting her community first, as she takes on numerous leadership roles as part of the student body. We talked to Aissatou about her projects as part of the Millennium Fellowship Class of 2020 and what motivates her to keep going and work so hard. As one of five siblings, it turns out that her biggest motivators are her parents!

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

I chose Lubin because of its passionate community of students, as well as the many opportunities offered to business students. These opportunities have allowed me to thrive inside and outside of Pace.

You have been very involved on campus as a student leader. What have you learned from those experiences so far?

I am the Fundraising Director of the Pace New York City chapter of the American Marketing Association. I am also the Chair of Membership for Beta Gamma Sigma and a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. The most valuable lesson I've learned from these experiences is the importance of being confident, but remaining humble at the same time. As much as I believe in my ability to tackle any task given, I am just as open to listening and learning from others.

The Millennium Fellowship provides student leaders with an opportunity to advance the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. Students from all over the world develop projects with the goal of positively impacting their communities. My project, Challenge Accepted, will be advancing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal of Quality Education.

The Millennium Fellowship is a prestigious leadership program in which you have been selected to participate. Tell us about the program and what you are looking forward to from that experience.

The Millennium Fellowship provides student leaders with an opportunity to advance the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. Students from all over the world develop projects with the goal of positively impacting their communities. My project, Challenge Accepted, will be advancing the UN's Sustainable Development Goal of Quality Education. I am excited to be part of an amazing group of leaders and I look forward to developing my project during the fall and hopefully expanding it after the program.

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

My biggest advice for Lubin students in regard to getting involved is to network and attend events. This could mean seeking e-board positions with clubs that you are interested in or curious about, participating in Pace's Alumni Mentoring program, getting an on-campus job, or simply attending virtual/in-person events to find out what opportunities are out there!

You are pursuing a BBA/MBA in Accounting, as well as majoring in Political Science with a minor in Pre-Law. What motivates you to work hard?

My main motivation is being optimistic about the positive impact I can have in my community and beyond. I am also motivated by my parents who are always supportive of me and my goals. I always strive to work hard and to do my best, no matter what the task at hand is.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

To me, #LubinLife means to be a well-rounded individual. As a business student, our curriculum prepares us for all aspects of the business world; it introduces us to a wide array of career fields and helps us build connections with all the different facets of business.

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

Why did you choose your major?

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

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

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

Why did you choose to attend Pace?

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

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

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

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

What activities have you been involved with on campus?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Why Political Science?

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

Why Pace?

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

Tell us about your on-campus experience

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

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

What extracurriculars are you involved with?

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

Tell us about your internships

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

What are your graduation plans?

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

Any advice for current students?

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

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

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Avery Pickard

FSO Assurance Staff, EY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Do you have any advice for freshmen?

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

How do you overcome stressful/overwhelming moments?

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

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

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

Erica Jurus

Operations Manager, Regal Music Theater

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What motivates you to work hard?

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

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

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

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

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

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Chukwuma Ezuma

MBA Winter Associate, BCM Tax, PwC

Class of 2022
Double MBA in Accounting and Business Analytics

Member Of: Graduate Finance Club

Ambition tends to be a common trait in our student body, and this MBA student has his eyes on something big. Chukwuma brings to the classroom a unique perspective. He is from Nigeria and has backpacked through all of South America and Australia. This global mindset has helped him make lifetime connections, build a valuable network, and make the most out of his time at Lubin. He is putting all of this to work and hopes to one day become a member of government in Nigeria.

Why did you choose Pace University and the Lubin School of Business to advance your business education

When I was looking for schools to pursue my MBA in accounting, I found that the Lubin School of Business was ideal for me. I was already familiar with Pace University and had some connections with past alumni and professors, including Dyson's faculty emeritus, professor Anne Bynoe, PhD. Since starting my degree, I have seen how effective Pace is at providing high-quality education along with the networking opportunities necessary for success. I've also found a lot of value in Lubin's proximity to the financial district and the talent that surrounds the school. In addition to Pace's strong relationship with the big four accounting firms, Lubin has proven to be an ideal destination to advance my career and build my network.

You have taken advantage of many opportunities offered at Pace, including our mentoring program and career services resources. What has it been like to participate in those programs?

I started my MBA with the mindset of taking advantage of as many of Lubin's opportunities as possible. To my surprised, I've found that the mentoring program is an underutilized resource at Pace. Mentorship relationships have helped me navigate the interview process for internships and guide the course structure and career trajectory. Regarding career services, I am grateful for their dedicated staff, especially Abby Okon, Bettina Klein, and Donna Holder. They have all individually played a role in perfecting my resume and planning my career development. These resources helped me hone in auditing as my preferred career path and provided the tools and support that I need to achieve my goal.

You have a go-getter attitude and get involved in many projects and extracurricular activities. What advice do you have for other students looking to get involved?

My advice to my fellow students would be to try and make the most out of their experience at Pace. I quickly learned that your experience here is what you make of it. Despite the limitations of the virtual environment, there are still opportunities such as various clubs and events available. My decision to join the Graduate Finance Club was twofold; I wanted to be part of a community of like-minded individuals and explore my passion for writing. The Assistant Director of Newsletter position was perfect for me. Little did I know that this single decision would help me exponentially in my interview process and allow me the opportunity to meet several like-minded and passionate individuals.

Little did I know that this single decision would help me exponentially in my interview process and allow me the opportunity to meet several like-minded and passionate individuals.

What are your future goals for your career?

I would like to go back to my home country of Nigeria and eventually run for political office. Specifically, a public position such as that of finance minister can significantly improve conditions within the country.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

#Lubinlife is a melting pot of various cultures and ethnicities coming together in a dynamic and welcoming environment.

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Bryan Comandini

Investment Specialist, Baron Capital

Class of 2022
BBA in Accounting / MS in Financial Management

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

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