student spotlight

Student Burro Encounter Wins R’Card Photo Contest

ilseu — Thu, 01 May 2025 17:22:55 +0000

Student Burro Encounter Wins R’Card Photo Contest ilseu Thu, 05/01/2025 - 10:22 More Blog Posts Jordan Cornet | Inside UCR April 16, 2025

UC Riverside first-year business student Dennis Cha was selected as the winner of the 2025 R’Card photo contest on March 12. His winning image, which features a burro in front of palm trees under a bright blue sky, will soon become a familiar sight to the campus community. The photograph will be printed on thousands of new R’Cards distributed to students, staff, and faculty for the 2025–26 academic year, making Cha’s work an everyday part of UCR life.

Cha first developed an interest in photography during high school, experimenting with one of his dad’s older cameras. What began as curiosity quickly grew into a passion, and he deepened his skills by joining his high school’s photography club. Over time, his hobby turned more serious as he upgraded equipment and invested more effort into learning technique. Cha eventually purchased a Sony Alpha 9, a professional-grade camera, which became the tool he relied on to capture the winning R’Card image. He submitted the photo just before the contest deadline in February, demonstrating not only technical skill but also a sense of timing and persistence.

Dennis Cha's winning photo of a burro on campus.

Today, Cha continues to hone his craft as a student photographer for UCR’s College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences (CHASS). In this role, he has photographed a wide range of events and performances across campus, documenting the energy and creativity of the university’s students and faculty. These experiences have given him opportunities to develop versatility as a photographer, capturing everything from large gatherings to intimate artistic performances.

Recalling the moment of inspiration for his winning entry, Cha explained that the photograph almost didn’t happen. “I had gone around campus and couldn’t get any good shots,” he said. “As I was heading back to my dorm, a herd of donkeys were right outside of AI (Aberdeen-Inverness Hall) waiting for me.” The serendipity of the moment, paired with his readiness to act quickly, allowed him to take a photograph that resonated with the campus community.

Since 2020, UCR Auxiliary Services has hosted the annual R’Card photo contest, encouraging students to share their unique perspectives of campus life. The contest is open to all students, who are invited to submit original images that highlight UCR’s landscape, culture, and spirit. Once submissions close, the campus community selects the winner through online voting on Instagram, ensuring that the final choice reflects the voice of students, staff, and alumni.

Evan McGuffin, operations coordinator for the Highlander Service Station, emphasized the value of the contest. “This contest is a great way to involve students and the UCR community in choosing their R’Card design,” he said. “It’s something that sets us apart from other UCs.” The process creates a sense of shared pride, as the winning design becomes a visual representation of the student body’s creativity.

As this year’s winner, Cha received several prizes, including a framed print of his photo, a certificate, a free 2025–26 R’Card, and a $75 Barnes & Noble gift card. Beyond the tangible rewards, however, the recognition itself holds deep meaning. “I’m really grateful for the opportunity,” Cha said. “My friends and family thought it was really awesome I got the chance to do this.”

For Cha, the honor affirms the effort he has dedicated to his craft and the support he has received from the UCR community. His story also highlights the importance of creativity at UCR, where student work is celebrated and shared in ways that make a lasting impact.

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Q&A: How To Get the Most Out of Grad School

cfabi002 — Wed, 04 Sep 2024 17:08:07 +0000

Q&A: How To Get the Most Out of Grad School cfabi002 Wed, 09/04/2024 - 10:08 More Blog Posts Laurie McLaughlin September 04, 2024

For Sonal Agrawal ’24 MBA, moving the United States from her home in India was a big leap, but she was determined to supercharge her career with a master’s degree at UCR. The COVID- 19 pandemic was a time of reflection and big decision-making for her, and the choice to take that leap paid off beginning the first day at UCR.

“From the moment I stepped into my first information systems class, I had found my calling,” says Agrawal of the course taught by Rich Yueh, assistant professor of teaching in information systems, at the School of Business. “Coming from a technical background, the course resonated deeply with me, strengthening my inclination toward product management. It cleared many of my doubts and solidified my career path.”

In the years before she set foot on UCR’s campus, Agrawal earned a bachelor’s in engineering in computer science at the University of Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya in India, and embarked on a career—starting as a system engineer and then as a SAP (systems, applications, and products in data processing) associate manager—with various companies, including EY, PwC, Atos, and Tata Consultancy Services.

At UCR’s A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management (AGSM), Agrawal intentionally immersed herself in myriad opportunities that would fine-tune her understanding of the culture, augment her knowledge of the industry, sharpen her technical skills, and polish her leadership capabilities as she now heads toward her immediate goal as a product manager. “I’m excited about the prospect of working closely with diverse clients to develop solutions addressing complex challenges,” she says. “My long-term vision extends beyond technical proficiency: I aspire to be a leader known for strategic acumen and empathy. I believe in leading teams toward shared goals while ensuring their well-being and professional growth.”

Her studies and deliberate involvement will get her there: “AGSM is focused on innovation, and UCR is a place where diversity is celebrated, and everyone’s voice is heard,” she says. “The hands-on learning opportunities and the network I built—thanks to UCR’s strong ties with industry leaders—provided solid steps toward achieving my career goals.

“I learned from the best, was challenged, and found support every step of the way. Each of our journeys is unique, and comparison is futile. We own our stories, our achievements, our failures. We set our pace, and with the belief in ourselves, nothing is impossible.

Sonal Agrawal ’24 at 2024 Global Case Competition

Agrawal shares her strategies for maximizing her AGSM career:

You have said, “Outside the classroom I thrived in extracurricular activities.” Which do you feel most strengthened your academic experience?

With the Programming Club, I was treasurer and vice president, and I learned to lead and mentor, assisting peers in improving their tech skills. These roles helped me understand the nuances of team dynamics and the importance of effective leadership, and I connected with essential networks, like Blackstone Launchpad. I was also director of the first-ever Programming Club AI competition in 2024; the event challenged students to analyze real-time business data, use LLM models for analysis, and make data-driven business decisions. It was a fantastic opportunity for participants to refine their leadership and public speaking skills, advance their tech knowledge, and master the art of data-driven decision-making.

As a member of the AGSM Career Advisory Council, I mentored first-year grad students on their academic and professional paths. Understanding the unique challenges faced by international students, I offered guidance rooted in empathy and my firsthand experience. With the AGSM Student Success team’s leadership and mentorship committee, the goal is to boost confidence and provide strategic advice for academics, on-campus employment, internships, and sometimes, personal matters, and I hosted one intern panel event in the fall quarter.

With the AGSM Women in Business club, I started as marketing executive and then communications director; we created a supportive environment for aspiring female leaders through events like case competitions, speaker series, and collaborations with other UC campuses.

I also volunteered with Americas’ SAP Users’ Group (ASUG), where I presented my experiences from working with Big 4 companies like PwC and EY in the SAP domain. I also discussed how SAP is leveraging AI to upgrade systems and solve business problems. Through ASUG, I built a network and connected with multiple mentors who have provided guidance, support, and empowerment.

During your internships, what were your responsibilities? You first interned with the National Science Foundation and then two internships with Willmeng Construction, including as a tech product manager intern for data platforms.

With Willmeng, I initially completed a rotational internship focused on business strategy for real estate using data analytics tools, like Power BI visualization platform, for informed business decisions, and I designed marketing materials for public sector U.S. clients. The tech product manager internship was an exceptional opportunity to integrate my previous SAP technology work experience in India with the business acumen I developed through my MBA studies. In this role, I was deeply involved in the entire life cycle of product strategy, from initial concept to market launch. My responsibilities included overseeing design and implementation phases for product development and product demonstrations, and throughout the internship, I leveraged my technical expertise with strategic business goals.

During my time at NSF, I worked as a marketing intern for a startup, responsible for crafting and executing strategies to build brand awareness, drive growth, and optimize digital marketing. I also conducted market research and client interviews to inform our decisions and refine our approach.

You competed in multiple contests with UCR winning teams, including the International Collegiate Business Strategy Competition (ICBSC) and Global Case Competition hosted by USC and the UC Davis Food and Agriculture Business Challenge. What did you gain from participating?

In the ICBSC business simulation game, I learned how a business operates by making informed decisions on product pricing and advertising strategy. I also realized that commitment to staff and customers is essential for achieving higher value in the business world.

In the USC Global Case Competition, I tackled financial and environments, social, and governance criteria, explored high-net-worth client strategies, and applied MBA skills. Competing with students from around the world, I enhanced my cross-functional collaboration, boosted my confidence, and gained leadership experience.

Participating in the UC Davis case competition opened my eyes to the intricacies of the food and agriculture industry. I learned to adapt to new sectors, manage stress, and apply strategic thinking. The challenge of developing a practical, cost-effective business solution was exhilarating and instrumental in bridging the gap between academic theories and real-world applications. I also learned the importance of meticulous planning and understanding customer needs to develop effective business and financial models.

Besides your experience in information systems with Professor Yueh, what other courses stood out for you?

The capstone course with Management Lecturer Alexandru Roman was particularly engaging because it involved working with real data from actual companies. Each week, we crafted presentations, gaining insights directly from company employees, which broadened our understanding of business strategies from an entrepreneurial perspective. His constructive feedback enhanced the real-world experience. Professor Sean Jasso was another significant mentor. Serving as a teaching assistant for him, participating in competitions, and learning about business ethics profoundly influenced my professional outlook and ethical considerations in business.

The school’s focus on innovation really spoke to me, especially because the professors are teachers, mentors, and experienced professionals bringing real-world insights into the classroom. I found support every step of the way.

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Immense Personal Growth

ilseu — Tue, 30 Jul 2024 23:20:28 +0000

Immense Personal Growth ilseu Tue, 07/30/2024 - 16:20 More Blog Posts Laurie Mclaughlin July 30, 2024

At the 2024 commencement ceremonies for A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management (AGSM), Pious Khemka ’24 MSBA carried the Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) processional banner representing her cohort and classmates.

“This honor came as a surprise to me and signifies that my efforts, even though they weren’t aimed at gaining recognition, have indeed been acknowledged by the school,” says Khemka of being selected to carry the banner. “Being part of the graduation ceremony in this capacity was a great honor and a meaningful culmination of my journey at UCR.”

Gaining Experience with Intensive Involvement

Khemka’s selection to carry the MSBA ceremonial banner was much less of a surprise to faculty and her academic colleagues due to her wholehearted engagement in AGSM student life. But the transition to a new community was daunting.

“Stepping outside my comfort zone fostered immense personal growth,” she says. “I used to avoid doing things alone, but now I embrace independence and have developed time management skills. Balancing coursework, a teaching assistant job, a capstone project, and social activities has taught me discipline.”

Khemka’s involvement in the Women in Business student organization was just one of the many projects she undertook while studying for her master’s at AGSM. “Women in Business has been a cornerstone of my UCR experience,” says Khemka, who served as the group’s partnership director and helped organize their UC Collab event with UCR, UC San Diego, and UC Irvine.

“The club has provided a platform to champion women’s empowerment, a cause close to my heart. I aspire to support and mentor women in business, creating networks and opportunities for them.”

While also competing in a number of case competitions, including her team’s second place win at the UC Davis Food and Agriculture Business Competition, the intensive preparation and presentations were “exhilarating,” she says, “and challenged me to apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios, sharpening my skills and broadening my perspective.”

Khemka is a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma International Business Honor Society, which welcomes graduate students in the top 20% academically. In the classroom, Khemka compliments Finance Professor Jean Helwege, who also holds the Anderson Chair in Finance. “She may not know this, but she is one of the professors I hold in the highest regard at UCR,” says Khemka. “Her lectures are so insightful and engaging that I was torn between taking notes and absorbing her every word.”

Off campus, Khemka interned as a startup business consultant with the INNOVAR project (part of the National Science Foundation I-Corps program offering introductory training workshops to entrepreneurs) at UCR and was a teaching assistant in the Economics Department within the university’s College of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences. “Both experiences underscored the importance of networking and professional relationships,” she says. “The INNOVAR internship required extensive outreach, and the teaching assistant position highlighted the need for both qualifications and connections.

“I’ve built a diverse network of peers, learning from their unique experiences and backgrounds. Being among the youngest in some classes has been a blessing, because I’ve gained insights from seasoned professionals that I could not have elsewhere.”

Education is Essential for Long-Term Growth

“Initially, pursuing a master’s wasn’t part of my plan because the job I had as a business analyst at Goldman Sachs was fulfilling,” says Khemka, who joined the global financial services firm upon earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 2021 from Christ University in Bangalore, India. “However, I realized that continuing my education was essential for long-term growth, and UCR stood out because it offered an excellent analytics program and the opportunity to live in California.”

Her hometown is Indore in Madhya Pradesh, India, and she says she is naturally inclined toward business studies: “My parents’ dedication to our family business instilled in me a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. My interest in analytics was sparked during my first job, where I realized the transformative power of data.

“My MSBA degree is the pathway to mastering these skills and making a significant impact on the business world.”

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Supply Chain and Operations Management

MSBA News

Graduate Students

Four Reasons To Study Supply Chain In California

ilseu — Mon, 15 Apr 2024 23:33:05 +0000

Four Reasons To Study Supply Chain In California ilseu Mon, 04/15/2024 - 16:33 More Blog Posts Almha Murphy, BusinessBecause April 10, 2024

This story was originally published on BusinessBecause.

There’s more to California than leafy palm trees, golden-sand beaches, and the Kardashians. It’s also a major supply chain hub. California is home to two of the US’s largest ports in LA and Long Beach and a key operations base for delivery companies such as UPS and Amazon.

Aniedi Effiong ’21 MBA

It was a location that appealed to Nigerian-born Aniedi Effiong (pictured right), who had spent five years working in various telecommunication roles across Africa before feeling the need for a career change.

In order to switch paths, Aniedi began to search for the right business program that could provide him with the necessary tools to upskill.

So, when his brother suggested the STEM-designated MBA program at the University of California, Riverside—which offers a specialization in Operations and Supply Chain Management—he leapt at the opportunity.

“[Riverside] is one hour away from Los Angeles, which coming from Nigeria, it's like the City of Angels,” he jokes. “So, it was just a dream location.”

Now an operations manager for the multi-billion-dollar tech conglomerate Amazon, his supply chain-focused MBA at Riverside has indeed proved to be a career blessing.

But what are the four ways that studying in California helped him get there?

1. Experience a campus catered for international students

Moving halfway around the world is no easy feat. Finding accommodation, organizing travel, and preparing to leave your home are all stressful endeavors. But when Aniedi stepped off his 11-hour flight from Nigeria to LAX, he was met with a more-than pleasant surprise.

“An associate director of admissions actually came to the airport to pick me up,” he says.

Having driven over an hour and a half to collect him and taxi him to his new room on-campus, the UCR faculty and staff immediately made clear their dedication to making each student feel at home.

It’s an ethos that is maintained within the MBA program, where about half of the cohort are international. While at UCR, students can receive counseling from student advisors on everything from adjusting to US culture to improving their English.

“[UCR] was a family for me,” Aniedi says.

Plus, the university also provides over 450 clubs for students to get involved with, from hiking, to art, to organizations for underrepresented groups. These provide a great way to build friendships.

2. Learn from state-of-the-art experiential teaching

During the program, one aspect that really impressed Aniedi was the high quality of the UCR teaching staff, which consists of renowned business professors from fields such as finance and management.

Since students don’t specialize until their second year, attending a diverse range of classes helps broaden their career outlook.

“Just hearing my professors talk exposed me to different areas of business,” Aniedi says.

High quality teaching is compounded upon by practical core courses, such as a professional development workshop requiring students to learn key skills that include networking, interviewing, and salary negotiation.

They are then able to put this into practice by participating in a summer internship of their choosing, helping to prepare them for a chosen career path.

Aniedi was offered the opportunity to work with one of his professors in program management for the World Food Organization. Unfortunately, the opportunity fell through due to Covid travel restrictions, however, with travel now open again, students can intern with top companies such as IBM and Deloitte.

3. Explore different areas of supply chain

While to some, supply chain may seem like a niche area, the field encompasses a wide range of skillsets.

Once studying the supply chain specialization, students have the opportunity to pick from a wide selection of courses, which include Business Analytics for Management and Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

One optional course that Aniedi found particularly useful was Spreadsheet Modelling for Decision Making.

“Even today, I think of a problem and the first thing that comes to my head is how can I model this in Excel,” he says.

Equally, there are also plenty of opportunities to incorporate more innovative sustainability practices, such as ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) principles, into supply chain.

According to the supply chain technology company Sedex, ESG practices are becoming increasingly popular in the industry in 2024—however, there is room for further innovation with regards to using data and analytics to improve companies’ environmental impact.

“It’s a field where there's a demand for talent,” Aniedi adds.

4. Access top job opportunities

Undoubtedly, one of the top benefits of studying supply chain in California is the wealth of industries that use it as a major distribution hub.

UCR endeavors to expose students to these nearby companies by hosting key industry speakers and organizing networking events, as well as offering students one-on-one career coaching through the Student Success Center.

Aniedi attributes the interview practice he was able to undergo while in the program to landing his Amazon Pathways role straight after graduation.

“The skills I gained my first year were sufficient that I was able to get a job just as I was finishing my internship,” he says.

After moving to Dallas, Texas, for his role, he was quickly promoted to a senior manager position, where he now uses several key skills that he learned during his MBA in his day-to-day—including supply management, capacity planning, and people management.

“It's multifaceted,” he says. “You use people skills, organizational behavior, your understanding of yourself, and emotional intelligence.”

Other popular companies that supply chain specialization graduates go on to work with include Walt Disney, KPMG, and eBay.

Reflecting on his decision to apply to UCR, Aniedi feels that for anyone considering a role in supply chain, California is a great place to launch their career.

“UCR, especially, is the in the heart of the Inland Empire, so you're in a prime location for keeping your options open.”

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‘I engage with industry leaders’

clin246 — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 19:17:29 +0000

‘I engage with industry leaders’ clin246 Mon, 01/22/2024 - 11:17 More Blog Posts Laurie McLaughlin January 30, 2024

Creating strong relationships through myriad experiences is central to the academic journey for MBA student Riya Yadav ’24. While she has previous work experience, she is especially pleased with the professional preparation, leadership, and networking opportunities she has immersed herself in while studying at UCR’s A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management (AGSM).

“The emphasis on networking at AGSM is significant, and we make connections in numerous clubs and in our day-to-day activities,” says Yadav, who is currently co-chief ambassador of the AGSM Student Ambassadors program. “As an ambassador, I engage with industry leaders and work with the top students. We have fantastic events, like speaker series, and we enjoy traditional holidays together, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, with staff who have opened their homes to us.”

Riya Yadav ’24 MBA with UCR's mascot Scotty

“Of course, it’s also an excellent opportunity to network with our cohort and industry experts—to learn how things are done in the American corporate world,” adds Yadav, whose MBA concentration is in data analytics and management; she plans to work with United Nations Women focused on gender equality and empowerment and in financial technology in a client- facing role.

Last year, Yadav administered the AGSM Women in Business (WIB) UC Collaboration event for International Women’s Week. “Taking up the responsibly of managing the entire event from outreach to logistics to post-marketing was extremely rewarding for me,” she says. “It was a great opportunity to prove and fine-tune my leadership style. The event was a huge success, and we are coordinating another in 2024 at UC San Diego.”

Yadav earned a bachelor’s degree in management studies with a concentration in finance and marketing from Jai Hind College in Mumbai, and since enrolling at UCR, internships and volunteer opportunities have compounded her networking and leadership prospects: She interned in summer 2023 with Northwestern Mutual as a financial planner in their San Diego office working cross-functionally with different teams; she is active in MBAchic, an online network for professionals dedicated to making education and jobs more accessible to women; and for the last four years, she’s been a member of Women in Technology International (WITI) and was recently appointed a WITI global ambassador networking with women and students interested in a career in technology.

Yadav is especially proud of her leadership within her Organizational Behavior course, which included Indian, Taiwanese, and Chinese students. “There was a communication gap between us, and as a group leader, I implemented writing points to bridge that gap, even for informal messages,” she says. “At Thursday meetings, the speaker from our student group reviewed the PowerPoint so that everyone was on the same page with the agenda and the topic we were discussing. This simple approach enhanced member involvement and helped us outperform with the grades we received for our case studies.”

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This is the third installment of a three-part series exploring the many ways Riya Yadav ’24 MBA exemplifies the deep involvement of our AGSM master’s students in the many professional enrichment opportunities on and off campus.

read part 1 read part 2

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AGSM Student Ambassadors

‘A Great First Step Toward My Personal Goal’

clin246 — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 19:09:31 +0000

‘A Great First Step Toward My Personal Goal’ clin246 Mon, 01/22/2024 - 11:09 More Blog Posts Laurie McLaughlin January 26, 2024

Over summer 2023, Riya Yadav ’24 MBA interned with Northwestern Mutual as a financial planner in their San Diego office.

“UCR alumni connected me to the hiring team. I worked cross-functionally with different teams and to find a solution that works for each client,” Yadav says. “It was also incredible to learn about the financial services industry within the United States and definitely a great first step toward my personal goal to help fintech companies expand.”

Before enrolling at UCR’s A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management (AGSM), Yadav worked at Quantum Data Engines, a company specializing in fraud management and anti- money laundering software for financial institutions. She also previously worked with the National Science Foundation as a consultant on a solar panel battery project. “That was also a fantastic learning experience for me,” says Yadav, and the position aligned with her values. “The United States, in particular California, places a strong emphasis on sustainable measures and numerous methods for making business more sustainable, as well as having firms that are focused on sustainability.”

Graduate Student Ambassador Co-Chiefs Riya Yadav and Shane Marquez

She knew an MBA was the next step in her career: “I was aware of what an MBA would add to my professional profile and experience, and being here at UCR has given me a deeper understanding of that.

“The curriculum is particularly industry-oriented and provides real-world experience; for example, the projects and the presentations we make are done in the same manner as I would present as a working consultant. Case studies are an excellent approach to grasp a topic, comprehend people, and see things from a broader perspective,” she says.

“Our projects provide a realistic insight into how IT business works, and the assignments are weekly, which aids in meeting deadlines. I also appreciate that the technical laboratory activities are provided for nontechnical individuals, which helps with comprehending the subject.”

As a grad student, Yadav also serves as a co-chief of the AGSM Student Ambassador program, a group of select students who support prospective and new students and participate in special events with industry professionals to enhance each ambassadors’ network. Off-campus, she works with MBAchic providing social media coverage about her MBA experience. In both roles, she says, “I share information and answer questions for students interested in pursuing an MBA.” This year, Yadav was appointed a global ambassador for Women in Technology International, where she’s been a member for four years, and she networks with women and students interested in a career in technology.

In Mumbai, Yadav earned a bachelor’s degree in management studies with a concentration in finance and marketing from Jai Hind College. She also previously participated in the Study Abroad Program in Business Strategy with Carleton University in Canada. In 2022, she represented India at the United Nations Young Leaders program in Switzerland.

She continues to forge new opportunities to expand her professional experience: “I also go to the walk-ins at the AGSM Career Development Center every two weeks, and the staff always helps me with a new area of my profile,” says Yadav. “That is useful for internships and job searches and for understanding the resources available.”

After earning her MBA with a concentration in data analytics and management with a focus on strategy, Yadav plans to work in financial technology in a client-facing role, she says: “Combining my analytical skills with my global and diverse experience, I want to formulate data-driven strategies.”

_____________

This is the second installment of a three-part series exploring the many ways Riya Yadav ’24 MBA exemplifies the deep involvement of our AGSM master’s students in the many professional enrichment opportunities on and off campus.

read part 1 read part 3

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AGSM Student Ambassadors

How We Secured Careers at Red Bull & Pacific Life

ilseu — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 23:11:36 +0000

How We Secured Careers at Red Bull & Pacific Life ilseu Fri, 07/07/2023 - 16:11 More Blog Posts Laura Wise, BusinessBecause July 01, 2023

This story was originally published on BusinessBecause.

Landing a top job in a renowned company is the ambition for many MBA grads.

In fact, salary is the most important factor for job hunting b-school students. Yet landing a top job with a high salary is no easy feat—you’ll need to sharpen your skill set, build an effective network, and stand out among tough competition.

Business school grads Simon Isaac and Natalie Qaqish were ready for the challenge. After studying an MBA in California, they landed their dream jobs at Pacific Life and Red Bull, respectively.

Pursuing an MBA in California

Natalie knew her long-term career plans did not include a nine-to-five job.

Natalie Qaqish, MBA '22

“I couldn’t picture myself working a nine-to-five in an office or even from home. I knew I wanted to work a job that inspired me while also helping to gain more networking and connection opportunities.”

Before her MBA, Natalie (pictured) worked at Red Bull as the student brand manager. After a lot of consideration she decided the University of California, Riverside (UCR) School of Business was the right fit for her to grow her career and make connections.

“I took a good amount of time really diving into each different program before settling on my MBA. I appreciated the different approaches UC Riverside took in order to help their students grow,” Natalie says.

Meanwhile, business school grad Simon attended the UCR for his bachelor’s in Applied Mathematics. After graduating, however, he felt that something was missing.

Like Natalie, Simon had a clear vision of his career journey. He had always wanted to launch a career in analytics but he felt he needed a better understanding of business and a more comprehensive range of soft skills before he could do this.

“I decided to pursue the STEM MBA program at UCR, instead of a traditional analytics or data science program, because I wanted a more business-focused approach to my career. I also wanted to improve my soft skills that could complement my hard skills as I progress in my career,” he says.

Learning a mix of skills on a STEM MBA in California

One of the many reasons students want to attend business school is to gain life-long learnings that can be applied in their career.

Simon Isaac ’19, ’22 MBA

“The Management and Negotiation courses have given me skills that are hugely helpful me in my career today," says Natalie.

“I am constantly speaking with managers and owners, creating and developing contracts to each specific account, while also ensuring I'm keeping my company at the top of my priority list to ensure premium marketing and execution,” Natalie explains.

The UCR School of Business curriculum is varied and accommodates diverse interests.

Core courses include Organizational Behavior and Theory and Statistics for Management, with students able to select from 7 different concentrations, including Management, Marketing, and Business Analytics.

From his time at UC Riverside School of Business, Simon says the most valuable skills he gained related to his improvement in computer software knowledge, database management, project management, business analysis, and leadership.

As part of the compulsory internship, Simon worked as an IT business systems analyst for the Riverside County Clerk-Recorder under the supervision of his professor and mentor Kan Wang.

Similarly, the required internship is something that attracted Natalie to the UCR MBA. From her experience, she says she improved her soft skills in communication and public speaking.

“This seemed like a great challenge for me to step out of my comfort zone and I ended up choosing an internship within fashion and lifestyle public relations,” Natalie says. “I was able to communicate with my professor all the new learnings and appreciation I obtained.”

Launching a business analytics career at Pacific Life

One of the many reasons why Simon was interested in pursuing an MBA at UCR was to take advantage of the business school’s strong graduate outcomes.

86% of students are employed within three months of graduation and reach a median starting salary of $86k.

The STEM MBA in California offers a business career development course that provides students with the tools to execute a strategic career management plan, covering everything from targeting a specific career to interviewing and negotiating job offers.

Following interviews at several different companies, Simon landed a job at insurance company Pacific Life.

“The business analyst position offered the perfect opportunity to launch my career as I can gain exposure to both the analytics and supply chain side of the insurance industry.”

“The main skills and knowledge that I learned on the UCR MBA are how to work in large groups, effectively manage projects to completion, coding languages, as well as business analysis,” he says.

Building a management career at Red Bull

Business school isn't just about gaining learnings from MBA classes, there's a lot you can gain from utilizing your school's career service.

“I personally used the career service to help me understand and negotiate the right pay I deserve with an MBA. The [career experts] taught me how to professionally communicate what pay I want and help me land a comfortable salary,” Natalie says.

After gaining extensive management and negotiation skills, Natalie elevated her career at Red Bull to become an on premise manager.

“I used the tools and knowledge I gained from my professors and leaders to help better myself to gain the job I really wanted in the On Premise team.”

In this role she works across different departments with a range of different responsibilities, fulfilling her ambition of working in an atypical position.

“I work for our top nightlife and dining scene and festival industry. I use many of the skills I learned from my courses in marketing, sales, negotiation, and management.”

For both Natalie and Simon, it wasn’t just about the skills they gained, but the growing confidence they found within themselves after graduating from UC Riverside.

“It was great to observe how my classmates and I bloomed into high-functioning professionals by the end of the MBA program,” says Simon.

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Jules Yang Strives for Success

ilseu — Wed, 31 May 2023 21:59:54 +0000

Jules Yang Strives for Success ilseu Wed, 05/31/2023 - 14:59 More Blog Posts May 31, 2023

Jules Yang, an Orange County native, is a business administration major with a concentration in finance. “I knew I wanted to work in business, so I applied as a business major to UCR. The longer I’ve been a student, the more UCR has grown on me; it is a welcoming place,” says Yang. “Being involved in so many student organizations has made my college experience very fulfilling, and it has allowed me to make an impact on the campus, which is what matters to me. I’ve met an amazing and diverse group people at UCR, and in this day and age, diversity and inclusion are heavily emphasized in the workplace.”

Yang is currently an ASUCR senator, vice president of External Affairs for ALPFA, and treasurer for his fraternity, Delta Chi. Yang’s journey into executive positions began with ALPFA his freshman year. “My first year of college during COVID, I became involved with ALPFA, which I found through a mentorship program. My mentor was a member, and he introduced me to it. My second year, I wanted to amplify my experience, so when ALPFA opened up their board positions, I applied for finance, and got the position. It was the first leadership position I’ve ever had in a club.”

Jules Yang and fellow UCR students

Yang was determined to continue striving for success, motivated by his friends. “One of my friends inspired me because he was so accomplished and had made a name for himself. I wanted to follow in his footsteps, so I ran for ASUCR senator.” Of his experience as a senator, Yang says: “Each of my leadership experiences was distinctive in its own way, but being a senator was the most different, exciting, and unique. I’d never been involved in student government before, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. As a senator, you have to work with a team of senators, with your interns, and the executive cabinet. It’s helped me a great deal professionally and personally.”

Upon graduation, Yang hopes to be a wealth manager, or financial adviser. Through his involvement at ALPFA, Yang has secured a summer internship at Goldman Sachs, in the consumer and wealth management division. “I went to ALPFA conventions, and worked really hard to get an internship. I did a lot of preparation, refined my networking skills, my resume, and my elevator pitch. I came out with an offer from Goldman Sachs.”

Yang attributes an aspect of his professional development to his position as treasurer at Delta Chi. “It’s such a large organization, and as we’ve grown, the amount of money that I’ve had to manage has grown as well. It’s given me a lot of leadership progression and experience that’s allowed me to grow as a person.”

Yang encourages future business students to join organizations. “I don’t think having a business degree on its own is enough. The best way to be successful, regardless of your career path, is to put yourself out there, network, and get out of your comfort zone.”

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Finding a Career in Information Systems

clin246 — Wed, 17 May 2023 16:22:10 +0000

Finding a Career in Information Systems clin246 Wed, 05/17/2023 - 09:22 More Blog Posts May 17, 2023

During her second year at UCR’s School of Business, Sachi Rajguroo ’23 found herself feeling isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic in January 2021. Looking for interaction, she joined the Association of Information Systems (AIS) organization. “I wanted to get more involved in school and make more friends,” she says. “I started as a market research member, and I realized that so many people were just like me, they wanted to find new friends and learn more about information systems.”

Today, Rajguroo is AIS president and just weeks away from earning a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in information systems. Her involvement indeed brought her new friends, mentors, and a future career path. “AIS was a good way for me to dip my toes into the information systems field,” she says.

Upon graduation, Rajguroo will be working at EY as a technology risk consultant and plans to delve further into project management as her career develops. Becoming a project manager holds appeal for Rajguroo because it allows her to network with others while still working within her field of information systems. “What excites me is being able to network with clients nationwide, that’s my favorite part of being a business student, being able to network and speak to so many people.”

Within AIS, she’s expanded her leadership skills and pointed the club in a new direction by spearheading a new brand for the club, with a new logo, merchandise, and focus. “As a president, I’ve utilized social media to advance careers,” she says. “We offer lots of LinkedIn and Handshake workshops.”

Recently, AIS hosted Assistant Professor of Teaching Jonathan Lim as the featured guest at the organization’s Application of Marketing in Information Systems event. “I had class with Lim last quarter, and I loved the way he taught,” she says. “He was so casual and able to relate to students by being approachable and personalizing his classes. I wanted people to see that professors do more than teach, they are connected to their students as well, and that we’re more than just information systems.”

With commencement just weeks away, Rajguroo feels that UCR has provided her with unique opportunities. “As I was growing up, I realized that I wasn’t the American norm,” she says. “When I got to UCR, it’s obviously very diverse, and I think it was the perfect fit for me, because I saw so many people who were similar to me, and it was like a whole new world. I could be more myself.”

Rajguroo has numerous positive figures providing support and encouragement. “I had support from my “big” [a club mentor],” she says. “And, I was mentored by Assistant Professor of Teaching Rich Yueh, who is still my mentor. I’ve learned so much from him, ranging from internships to being a grader for UCR.”

As Rajguroo moves from the academic world to the workforce, she is motivated by her biggest supporters: her family. “My dad came here in the 1990s from India as an immigrant and went back to India to marry my mom, and she came back here alone. Their story has been about building a life for their kids and their education,” she says. “My dad is an engineer, and he always wanted me to do something within technology. I’m always trying to work hard for them, because I want them to be proud of me. When I told him about my first job offer, he was so happy. I see how hard they worked for my sister and me, and I always keep them in the back of my mind.”

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