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

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

Tell us about your background, and what motivates you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why did you choose to attend Pace?

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

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

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

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

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

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

What internships have you participated in as a student?

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

What other activities have you been involved with?

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

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

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

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

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

Why did you choose to attend Pace?

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

What is it about your major that interests you?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What advice would you give to other international students?

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

Ritvi Shah

Communications Analyst, Sixth Street

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

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

Lucais Marks

Media Manager, Publicis Media

Class of 2022
MS in Social Media and Mobile Marketing

Sometimes it’s the things you do outside of business studies that help you succeed in business. That is the case with Lucais, a master’s student who once competed in the Asia Pacific Lacrosse Championship for Team China and now stays active by spending his free time outdoors fishing and snowboarding. With a passion for sustainability, Lucais works as a marketing specialist for two education and environment-focused organizations. In class, he is gaining the technical skills he needs to advance his career as a brand communicator.

Why did you choose Pace University and the Lubin School of Business for your MS in Social Media and Mobile Marketing

New York has been home for many years and I was hoping to experience student life in the city. Coming from Dickinson College, a small liberal arts school in Pennsylvania, I was very excited because I knew that the two experiences would be very different. However, what enticed me most was the master’s degree itself. Lubin’s MS in Social Media and Mobile Marketing highlights an area of study that I could not find elsewhere. Its unique curriculum piqued my interest. Both social media and mobile marketing are very important in today’s society. I believe that the experiences I have had and people I engage with at Lubin will be valuable for my future. I plan to reinforce my marketing and content creation skills to elevate my understanding of managing brand content, brand communications, and marketing strategies. I’ve been a content creator and have worked in marketing for a few years now. This degree provides an opportunity to better prepare me for my future career.

You currently hold positions in two organizations with a social cause as their motto.Tell us about these organizations and the experiences you have had.

I work as both a marketing specialist and client success director at Bridg-it LLC. Bridg-it creates tools and resources to cultivate and sustain a healthy school environment by providing a positive social network for students. I’ve really enjoyed working for Bridg-it, as the betterment of students’ social and emotional learning means a lot to me. Working with EARTHDAY.ORG has been a great experience as well. I have always been an advocate for a clean and sustainable planet, and I am more than happy to assist the organization with its digital media endeavors.

How have you applied what you have learned in your classes to your work?

Many projects and assignments in my classes have helped me think outside the box regarding methodologies and techniques. These experiences have forced me to learn new skills through Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office. The Social Media and Mobile Marketing course with Dr. Randi Priluck was a great learning experience; it helped me better understand integrated marketing communications and other digital strategies that I incorporate into my daily work.

The next step is becoming more educated, achieving my goals, and becoming a better person than I was yesterday. While I haven’t been with Lubin long, the culture here has given me the mindset to want more and to keep moving forward.

Between your work, studying, and hobbies, you have a very busy life; what is your advice for other students who might struggle with time management and staying organized?

I recommend making time for yourself and prioritizing mental and physical health. Creating a schedule and rhythm that focuses on your happiness will make schoolwork much easier. Be sure to incorporate time to get outside and enjoy yourself in-between your studies, and integrate healthy lifestyle choices so your body can perform well while you complete your studies. If you feel good, your work output and organization will follow suit. Stay motivated.

What has it been like to start a master’s program while studying remotely?

While I would have enjoyed an in-person experience, it has been great studying remotely. It’s been convenient studying from home or on-the-go with my laptop. I have been able to study more freely and spend more time with my family. While there are many negative things about the pandemic and stay-at-home culture, it’s good to focus on the positives and keep those ideas top of mind.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

#LubinLife is part of the process of developing myself and my value as an individual. The next step is becoming more educated, achieving my goals, and becoming a better person than I was yesterday. While I haven’t been with Lubin long, the culture here has given me the mindset to want more and to keep moving forward.

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Joanne Mantzouridou Onasi

Co-Founder and CEO, Dextego

Class of 2022
MS in Strategic Management

Member Of: Strategy And International Business Club

Zip-lining for three hours straight requires a lot of courage and focus -- so does being an entrepreneur, moving across the world for a graduate degree, and starting a student club on campus. Joanne has done all of these things and even more, proving that she is a go-getter. As an international student from Thessaloniki, Greece, she has taken full advantage of various Lubin-oriented opportunities and services, including our Graduate Assistantship program, guest speaker events, and the Entrepreneurship Lab.

You got your BA in psychology and communications. Why did you decide to enroll in business school and why did you choose Pace University for your master’s degree?

I realized that I needed some more business skills and exposure to business concepts to understand my professional path after college better. I find that Pace’s location is ideal for me since it is close to the headquarters of some of the best companies in the country. Pace also has a great alumni network, which I am looking forward to joining once I graduate!

I was fascinated by the complexity of businesses and the importance of sustainable practices at an early age. Inspired by my love for fashion, I started a company called DGRwear in 2017 with my sister. We are now using the company’s social media platforms to educate more and more people on sustainable fashion.

You have a passion for entrepreneurship and sustainability. Tell us about where that journey started and the business that you’ve created by combining the two.

While I was attending high school in Greece, I spent my summers in the USA. I got to participate in multiple summer programs on sustainability and entrepreneurship. I was fascinated by the complexity of businesses and the importance of sustainable practices at an early age. Inspired by my love for fashion, I started a company called DGRwear in 2017 with my sister. We are now using the company’s social media platforms to educate more and more people on sustainable fashion. Our company focuses on creating 100% handmade clothes and accessories made in Greece. This journey has allowed me to meet amazing people worldwide that use fashion as a platform to make a change. I am also Head of Strategy for Fashion Revolution Greece, a local chapter of a global organization that works towards making the fashion industry more sustainable. Additionally, I am working on building the first sustainable fashion school back home in Thessaloniki, projected to be up and running by the summer of 2022.

Tell us about your experience at Lubin; what resources have you been taking advantage of here?

Although I started my first semester virtually, I managed to gain plenty of experience at Lubin. First, I became a graduate assistant and had the honor of working with Professor Tarique, a professional I admire very much and from whom I have learned a lot. I have attended various online events with great speakers and alumni hosted by Lubin or student organizations. The Entrepreneurship Lab is always putting together amazing events, too! Last, for me, the alumni connections have been a great highlight this past semester. Through the Pace Mentoring Program and reaching out to alumni directly by utilizing LinkedIn or being referred to them by Pace’s staff, I have met inspiring and motivating alumni who want to give back.

What has it been like to start a brand-new graduate student organization on campus and what are the club’s goals?

I like creating community wherever I go; connecting with like-minded individuals always motivates me and helps my vision grow. I had started a club at my high school too called NGSW (New Generation Sustainable World), and that experience gave me the confidence to create something at Pace. With the encouragement and help of Professor Tarique, I founded the Strategy and International Business Club (SIB). I am very grateful to the executive board we have formed for this organization. We have bonded very well and are continuing strong this semester! The club’s goals are to provide a safe space for students to interact, debate, and discuss current topics on a global scale, from the pandemic and globalization to sustainability and the legalization of marijuana. This semester we have planned more networking events, and we are very excited to welcome more people to join us.

What are your future goals for your career?

Eventually, I want to work in international business, give back to my country and to people in need, and always strive for a more equal world.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

#LubinLife is the New York City experience, a multicultural adventure filled with high energy and vibrations.

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Gabriela Morris

Speaker Management, The Harry Walker Agency

Class of 2022
Dual MBA in Talent Management / General Business

Member Of: The Entertainment and Arts Managers at Pace, Lubin Women in Leadership

We are experiencing a revolution in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and this student has found that Pace is helping her enact that change in her industry. Gabriela has always had a passion for the arts. She has danced on Main Street U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom in two different parades and she is making her mark by exploring ways to create safer spaces for all creative people to thrive. All the while, she is developing her network by attending Career Services events, joining the Mentoring Program, working as a graduate assistant, and becoming a student leader for several of our graduate clubs.

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

I chose Pace University because of its comprehensive curriculum, which prepares students to be well-rounded leaders and managers. Pace’s location was also crucial in this decision because I knew it would give me access to connections across the city. Because I started my program in a remote setting, I had to decide if I wanted the opportunity to continue in person once possible, and I do! Having this option was important in deciding between a fully remote program and one with potential on-campus elements. I also prioritized the ability to explore different aspects of my chosen industry and other relevant courses. I am grateful that Pace University and the Lubin School of Business continually provide personal and professional growth opportunities in a supportive environment.

You have taken advantage of opportunities offered at Pace, including our mentoring program and Career Services resources. How have those experiences impacted your career?

Taking advantage of these offerings has only elevated my time at Pace thus far. Career Services hosts several employers every semester and I have been exposed to many careers and opportunities I didn’t even know existed. These events are not only wonderful learning opportunities, but great for networking as well. Everyone says it, but networking opens doors, some of which may or may not lead to your dream career. Either way, connecting with others is important, especially because you never know where it will take you.

As someone who is dedicated to making the arts and entertainment industry a safer place, I not only work to constantly challenge implicit bias, but I hold companies and leaders to a higher standard. (…) Through my classes at Pace, I realize just how passionate I am about creating this change and dismantling harmful and exclusive systems to build new policies and procedures that reflect the world we live in.

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?

I attended the Graduate Student Club meet-and-greet my first semester with the mindset that I would join a club, mainly because my interests aligned with the mission of a few of these organizations, and I wanted to be involved. At the meet-and-greet, however, I was encouraged to join a club as a way to make friends, which wasn’t easy in a distance learning atmosphere. My advice would be the same---step outside your comfort zone with the intention of connecting with like-minded people to share ideas and passions for things you have in common. The Entertainment and Arts Managers (T.E.A.M.) at Pace is a new organization as of Fall 2020; we are always looking to work with other future arts and entertainment leaders to discuss trends in the industry and provide networking opportunities between students and professionals across the industry.

You have a passion for equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. How are you addressing these areas in your career planning?

These concepts are at the forefront of every decision I make, particularly with regard to career planning. As someone who is dedicated to making the arts and entertainment industry a safer place, I not only work to constantly challenge implicit bias, but I hold companies and leaders to a higher standard. For me, it is important that I work for and with a company that strives to make substantial progress in becoming a safe and inclusive place to work, learn, and grow. Through my classes at Pace, I realize just how passionate I am about creating this change and dismantling harmful and exclusive systems to build new policies and procedures that reflect the world we live in.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

#LubinLife means dreaming big and knowing that you have a community to support you. I’ve met some of my closest friends at Pace and am grateful that we ended up sharing this journey together. There are so many opportunities to push yourself out of your comfort zone to try new things, and to make new connections. I would encourage everyone to take advantage of al all of these opportunities while they can!

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Anabelle Capois Espinal

Class of 2022

Currently Studying: MBA in Strategy and International Business

Member Of: Strategy and International Business Club, Lubin Women in Leadership

By 2021, the entire world has heard the company name Pfizer many times. This time, we get to find out from Anabelle Capois Espinal what it is like to be an intern on this multinational company's Transformation and Project Management team. Anabelle’s story is a wonderful lesson on how to make your master's degree work for you. Overall, attending guest speaker events and becoming a student leader gave Anabelle the skills needed to land her coveted internship. This Dominican Republic native started her MBA in the middle of the pandemic, transitioning out of the non-profit world to discover new career paths and professional opportunities.

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

I always knew I would pursue my graduate degree, but I hadn't felt like it was the right time until last year. In a way, the pandemic helped me decide; instead of spending two hours a day commuting, I used that time to reflect on what steps I wanted to take towards my professional development. I used to work in an office only a 10-minute walk from Pace, so it would have been easy getting to class after work if we were to return to the office. Additionally, my roommate of five years is a Pace alumna and spoke very highly about her experience as a student. The program's affordability was also an essential factor and the accelerated MBA program option is incredibly convenient.

Tell us about your internship at Pfizer. How exciting is it to be interning for a company that has the world's attention right now?

I am almost four weeks into my internship with Pfizer and it has already been such a valuable experience. Coming into an 80,000-employee global company as an intern, you'd think you may feel invisible, but that has been far from the truth. The Transformation and Project Management team has been incredibly supportive and has made the interns feel valued, even while being fully remote.

Coming into an 80,000-employee global company as an intern, you'd think you may feel invisible, but that has been far from the truth.

What I am enjoying about Pfizer is the company culture of always trying to be better. At the business level, they are constantly innovating, ensuring that the impact of any changes on stakeholders, from global markets down to a single customer, are taken into consideration. They have created a safe environment for all colleagues, including contractors. Pfizer is a company filled with people who are friendly and passionate about the work that they do. They are driven by the positive contributions the company has made to society, even more so in the last year. I have yet to come across a person, no matter their role in the company, who is unwilling to spare some time to talk to me. Everyone is happy to share their story and provide advice. They genuinely operate by their core values of "courage, excellence, equity, and joy."

How were you able to land such a unique internship?

I landed my internship thanks to Handshake and the Pace alumni network! I received an email notification from Handshake about the opportunity to intern at Pfizer and immediately applied. The project management and global aspect of the role, and the fact that Pfizer is a company that is really making a difference at a significant time in history, piqued my interest. I heard back from them about two weeks after applying. About a week after interviewing, I was informed that I landed the internship. During my interview, I found out that the position was made possible by the VP of Transformation and Project Management at Pfizer, Pace alumnus Doug Amann '90, as a way to pay it forward to the Pace community.

What has it been like to start a master's degree during a global pandemic?

I have had to adjust to online learning, but thankfully I worked remotely for some months and was used to interacting with people virtually. I thought it would be a big challenge to make connections and build a strong network, but it has been the opposite. This is due in large part to me deciding to become more engaged in the community by attending virtual events and joining student organizations. I have also had some great professors who want to prepare students for their careers and not just help us memorize textbook content. The coursework has been challenging in many cases, especially after having been out of school for six years, but the professors notice if you are determined and put in your best effort. As an executive board member of various student organizations, it has been great to put together events that the entire Lubin community can benefit from. My advice is to join an organization as soon as you can. I hesitated for a semester because I didn't want to be too overwhelmed during my first few months in the program, but now I wish I would have joined an organization sooner. It has been a great resource and any amount of time you can commit is going to be valuable.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

#LubinLife in the last year for me has been about connecting – connecting with classmates, professors, alumni, counselors . . . anyone and everyone! My time as a graduate student has been so much more rewarding because of it. Networking has been one of my biggest challenges. Even though I can come across as a social person, I very much consider myself an introvert. I am still learning to put myself out there, but thanks to the resources at Lubin, I have been able to learn the skills that allow me to step out of my comfort zone with more confidence.

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Aida Kolar

DGS Tax Staff, EY

Class of 2022
BBA/MBA in Public Accounting

Member Of: Women in Corporate America, Business Honors program advisory board, Beta Alpha Psi, Pforzheimer honors college

Aida is a student whom most of her peers on the New York City campus know. Through her involvement in various student organizations, her participation in multiple panels and events, and her work on campus as a student assistant to Lubin’s Undergraduate Advisement Office, Aida has built an outstanding resume that landed her a coveted accounting internship this semester (Spring 2021). We talked to this Queens (New York) native and EY scholarship awardee about how she has leveraged her relationships with alumni to bring career advancement opportunities to other students on campus.

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

Pace University and the Lubin School of Business stood out to me exceptionally during my college search. The school is not only close to my home, but Pace’s location in the most fantastic city in the world provides students with outstanding opportunities. The Lubin School of Business was one of the only schools that provided a unique combined degree program in accounting. Its student success stories really sealed the decision for me. I knew from the get-go that getting a master’s was something that I wanted to do, and Lubin’s program allowed me to do just that. Studying at a university like Pace with the opportunities that I could take advantage of at Lubin was an experience I did not want to miss out on.

The Lubin School of Business was one of the only schools that provided a unique combined degree program in accounting. Its student success stories really sealed the decision for me. I knew from the get-go that getting a master’s was something that I wanted to do, and Lubin’s program allowed me to do just that.

You are very involved on campus as a student leader. What have those experiences been like and how are they helping you in your career?

My involvement as a student leader has really made my college experience complete. Being involved with student organizations has allowed me to build an on-campus community comprised of students with similar interests. Most of my memorable experiences come from being a student leader, visiting NASDAQ Headquarters, and meeting Pace alumni at different Lubin events. I have developed communication and leadership skills; I have also established a network that has led me to career opportunities and prepared me for a career after college.

As president of Women in Corporate America (WICA), you brought Pace students the opportunity to participate in a Leadership Certificate Program. What was that experience like?

This past Fall semester, WICA hosted its first virtual Leadership Certificate Program in partnership with Pace alumna, Deidre Koppelman ’87, CEO and founder, PEAR Core Solutions -- a Human Resource Consulting organization. I met Deidre a year ago at a Lubin alumni event. I began working with her immediately by hosting her as a guest speaker for WICA events such as the Women’s Empowerment Conference. Together, we came up with the idea of a certificate program that would provide a personalized experience for 20 Pace students and put it into action this past Fall. The students learned how to analyze their professional personalities and career aspirations using specific tools; they also studied topics such as empathy and active listening, communication, drama triangles, and more. Participating students learned how to utilize particular resources based on their personalities, careers they are interested in, and their goals. Further, they received personalized results and created a toolbox of resources to use in their individual successes.

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

Career Services has provided me with many on-campus opportunities and possibilities of career advancement outside of campus. Being in New York City we can take advantage of an endless list of activities. Career Services has done a phenomenal job collaborating with external organizations and providing students the chance to participate in some fantastic events. I had the privilege of attending a diversity and inclusion conference at the NY Stock Exchange and working with Harvard Business School and NYU Stern on women’s empowerment conferences because of this.

What does the Spring 2021 semester look like for you? What are you looking forward to the most?

I am really looking forward to this semester (Spring 2021). As a Public Accounting combined degree student, I have been invited to participate in the Winter Co-Op Internship Program. This program essentially allows me to work full-time for the first half of the semester, during busy season, and then return in mid-March to resume my studies for the semester. In January I joined Pricewaterhouse Coopers (PwC) as a Real Estate Tax intern on their Financial Services Core Market Team.

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

Do not be afraid to try a little bit of everything. Getting involved is really just about finding what you enjoy and have a passion for. You may find this with the first club you get involved with or your first job, or it may take a few tries altogether. But, once you find the things you want to get involved with, you will truly build the college journey and experience you desire. You never know who you will meet, what things you will experience, or what opportunities will come from your involvement.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

When I think about #LubinLife, the first thing that comes to mind is the Game of Life. The Lubin culture, much like the game, is about taking chances and landing opportunities. Everyone’s journey at Lubin is so different and so unique. The people and opportunities at Lubin are the tools that we utilize to establish our own journeys. Lubin has introduced me to so many inspiring people, including classmates, alumni, professionals, etc., but it has also given me so many opportunities to pave my own college path and career afterward.