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.

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 Pforzheimer 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!