“I think they're in better shape than spring 2020,” said Andrew Coggins, a professor at Pace University who teaches cruise industry management.
We live in a deeply politically polarized country. That’s no secret. But a recent study found that college students aren’t just polarized; they’re increasingly unwilling to even interact with those who have different political views. And that worries me.
Imran H. Ansari '08 is the lead partner in charge of the civil practice in his firm, Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins PC, and has an active litigation and trial practice. He is also a weekly host on the Law & Crime Network and a weekly guest legal analyst on Court TV. Imran also appears on other networks such as CNN/HLN, Fox, CBS, and others, to provide legal commentary, along with various radio shows and podcasts to discuss legal news.
Imran H. Ansari '08 is the lead partner in charge of the civil practice in his firm, Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins PC, and has an active litigation and trial practice. He is also a weekly host on the Law & Crime Network and a weekly guest legal analyst on Court TV. Imran also appears on other networks such as CNN/HLN, Fox, CBS, and others, to provide legal commentary, along with various radio shows and podcasts to discuss legal news.
Let’s start from the beginning, how did your background influence your career and educational choices?
I grew up in suburban New Jersey, however, I spent a lot of time in New York City throughout my formative years. It exposed me to diversity, the arts, life experiences, and I truly fell in love with New York City from a young age. Before starting my law career, I played and toured as a musician with an acclaimed band, and I have had experiences living, studying, and working in Iceland, India, and Italy, giving me a more worldly perspective. With its proximity to New York City, its excellent program and reputation, Pace was the perfect fit for me.
Can you talk about your journey to law school and thereafter?
Law is a second career for me. I was a television producer at Court TV and worked in film prior to becoming a lawyer. Getting my law degree was something I had set for myself as a goal. When I applied to law school, I was living in Iceland and working on major film and television shoots, such as Batman Begins and others. It seemed like the right time, so I sent in my application, and started at Pace in 2004. Once I was at Pace, I participated in an internship at the Brooklyn D.A.’s Office, which was transformative. I realized the skills I learned writing and producing for TV and film, translated exceptionally into the court room. The cadence of delivering an argument, the presence and body language the jurors expect and like to see, the concise delivery of a point. With these skills, coupled with an understanding of the law, I realized becoming a trial attorney was my calling. After many years as an Assistant District Attorney in Brooklyn, I jumped to the private sector and expanded my practice expertise beyond criminal law, to also encompass civil litigation. I am now the lead partner in charge of the civil practice in my firm, Aidala, Bertuna & Kamins PC, and have an active litigation and trial practice, including handling high-profile cases for high-profile clients. Some of my high-profile clients are not popular in the court of public opinion, which makes it more difficult to defend them in the court of law. It is important to remember that a fundamental aspect of our justice system is the right to a defense.
Do you remember your first day of law school?
I will always remember my first day of law school! As with any new venture in life, it was filled with excitement and a dose of nerves. I remember meeting so many great people that day, all sharing similar feelings. We would all form a bond over the next few years through our time at Pace, and I am proud to say that our education at the Law School has allowed many of us to fulfill our career dreams.
We would all form a bond over the next few years through our time at Pace, and I am proud to say that our education at the Law School has allowed many of us to fulfill our career dreams.
How was the rest of your law school experience?
There are so many memorable experiences! For me, moot court competitions and the camaraderie with my moot court teammates will always stick out, especially the competitive edge when we went up against other law schools. I also had a wonderful experience with the externships I did while at Pace. And, as far as professors – I can safely say that all my professors were my favorites! The faculty at Pace are exceptional, they equipped me with the skills and knowledge to propel me through my career, and for that I am forever grateful. Funny enough, one of my former professors was an adversary in a case, it was an interesting experience!
Were there any struggles during law school that you want to share?
In 2005, I participated in the Pace Law Internship Abroad program and spent the summer in India working with one of its top law firms. It was a great experience, but then a stroke of bad luck. During my last week in India, I was hit with a horrible stomach virus that knocked me out of commission for weeks, including well into the start of the fall semester. I made the strategic, yet very difficult, decision to take that fall semester off, hence my January 2008 graduation, rather than 2007. It all worked out for the best though!
In addition to being a partner at a busy law firm, you are also a host & legal analyst on the Law & Crime Network – how did that evolve?
As I mentioned, prior to law, I was a television producer, including at Court TV, so that passion for broadcast media is inherent. Now I have come full circle, but this time instead of behind the camera, I am on-air. I am a weekly host on the Law & Crime Network, where we cover live trials and legal news and break it down for our viewers. I am also a weekly guest legal analyst on Court TV, where I provide commentary as we discuss the latest trials and legal news. I also appear on other networks such as CNN/HLN, Fox, CBS, and others, to provide legal commentary. Additionally, I often appear as a guest on radio shows and podcasts to discuss legal news.
How has the pandemic shaped what you do and how you do it – both on a day-to-day basis and for the foreseeable future?
I think we have seen an evolution in the way we practice law due to the pandemic. It will be interesting to see how courts implement the use of virtual appearances even post-pandemic, as I believe that many see this as a more efficient manner of conducting business. I personally love being physically in court. It’s my comfort zone and I love the social interaction, whether I am picking a jury or simply bantering with a fellow member of the bar while we wait for our cases to be called. Back in March 2021, I picked one of the first in-person juries in Supreme Court in Manhattan. The case settled after jury selection, but it was a surreal experience to pick a jury with masks, plastic dividers, and everyone spaced out. A few months later, I picked another jury in Supreme Court in Brooklyn, and tried a case to jury verdict in favor of my client in Supreme Court in the Bronx. All while wearing a mask and spaced out in a specially equipped courtroom. I also tried a bench trial in federal court over the span of a few weeks in the summer of 2021 which was done entirely remotely. It is indicative of how we adapt to change and get used to the “new normal.”
Do you have any advice for current students?
Make connections now! Studying and academics are of course a priority, but the real practical experience you will receive during internships, externships, and working, will provide you the advantage for when you start practicing and when you are looking for a job. It’s important to make those connections while in law school, and I recommend preemptively getting active in bar associations and networking in the profession. It will pay off later!
How did Pace shape or help your career path?
Pace provided me with a stellar education, and the experiences I had through externships and internships, changed my career direction, without which, I would not be where I am today.
What are some of your passions aside from the law?
I love traveling, music, and I am avidly into sport fishing! Also, spending as much time as possible with my family, who have supported me through the years. Without that support, my accomplishments would not have been possible.
Bennett Gershman, a former prosecutor and a law professor at Pace University, suggested that significant portions of the filing may be redacted “given the closeness to the upcoming election” but that many of the actions Trump took in his attempt to overturn the election results “clearly were not official acts.”
Sands College of Performing Arts alumnus Cooper Koch ’18 stars in a new Netflix drama, Monsters, Yahoo News reports.
Elisabeth Haub School of Law Professor Bennett Gershman provides insights to Reuters regarding the recent charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams and the challenges of removing him from office – and the story gets picked up by hundreds of publications around the world. In the article, U.S. prosecutors have charged Adams with accepting illegal campaign contributions and luxury travel accommodations from Turkish nationals attempting to sway his influence, capping an investigation that has sent the largest U.S. city's government into turmoil.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
An Art History/Psychology major and first-gen honors student, Maruszewski speaks about merging the arts and sciences.
An Art History/Psychology major and first-gen honors student, Maruszewski speaks about merging the arts and sciences.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
Meet Aissatou Gnigue, 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.
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!
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.
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 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.
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!
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.
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.
At Pace, I can channel my passion where it thrives: Learning and creating ways to change the economy for the better.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Meet Avery Pickard, class of 2021, a junior in our five-year public accounting combined BBA/MBA program. He interned at EY as a Financial Services Organization Launch Intern and is the Secretary of Beta Alpha Psi.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
#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.