MBA News

Bridging the Gap

ilseu — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 19:59:41 +0000

Bridging the Gap ilseu Wed, 02/25/2026 - 11:59 More Blog Posts UCR School of Business February 25, 2026

When California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the Creative Economy Master Plan into law, it signaled a historic shift: the official recognition of the cultural sector as a primary pillar of the state’s economic future. But for second-year MBA student Dyami Ruiz-Martínez ’26 MBA, a signature on a document is only the beginning.

“State policy creates opportunity,” says Ruiz-Martínez, who is currently earning his master’s at UCR’s A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management. “But, without the infrastructure to support it, those opportunities don’t compound. That’s where business comes in—we understand what’s necessary for economic development to follow.”

Ruiz-Martínez’s role as a board member of Arts Connection—the Arts Council of San Bernardino County—and his leadership with the Inland Film Festival recently earned him a Certificate of Recognition from the California State Senate. Issued by Sen. Eloise Gómez Reyes, the award honors outstanding service and leadership in advancing arts, culture, and economic development across the Inland Empire.

Ruiz-Martinez meeting with RAC ED Rachael Dzikonski (far right) and
California Senator Sabrina Cervantes

Originally joining the Arts Council board to support artists and the creative community, Ruiz-Martínez’s contributions have expanded into implementation planning—helping align local organizations with statewide economic frameworks while maintaining financial discipline and long-term viability.

Ruiz-Martinez representing the arts at the CA State Capital

The Intersection of Anthropology and Finance

With an approach to business that is anything but traditional, Ruiz-Martínez’s professional identity is built on a cross-disciplinary foundation of anthropology, political science, and finance.

“My background in anthropology provides the cultural literacy to ensure that economic development is built with a community, rather than imposed upon it,” he says.

This human-centered perspective is balanced by “hard skills” in asset management and governance. A licensed real estate broker with seven years of industry experience, Ruiz-Martínez currently serves as the director of housing finance and partnerships at the Inland Equity Community Land Trust, where he works on shared-equity housing models, lender partnerships, and long-term affordability structures—applying what he is learning in the classroom to pressing regional challenges.

A Global Perspective at AGSM

Choosing UC Riverside for his MBA was a strategic move to sharpen his technical command of finance and strategic management. His time at the AGSM, or the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management, has been marked by a global outlook, including participating in the school’s Oxford Intensive and immersive trips to Vietnam and China, where he explored how international markets integrate cultural heritage into
economic strategy.

Closer to home, Ruiz-Martínez remains a pillar of the UCR graduate community. He serves as the AGSM academic affairs officer for the Graduate Student Association and represents graduate voices on the UCR Academic Senate Education Policy Committee. These roles place him at the center of institutional decision-making, where he contributes to academic planning and governance while representing graduate student
interests.

Ruiz-Martinez with Sean Jasso as a recipient of
Jaime J. Merino scholarship for community service

Looking Toward a Sustainable Future

As he nears the completion of his MBA, Ruiz-Martínez remains focused on opportunities to apply his training across sectors. Whether in the creative economy, housing finance, nonprofit governance, or emerging public and private initiatives, his work reflects a consistent approach: creating value across organizations and communities. “My goal is to continue designing sustainable ecosystems where our workforce and creative communities have the stability they need to thrive and are backed by data-driven action,” he says.

For this Highlander, the “creative economy” isn’t just a policy term—it’s a blueprint for the future of the Inland Empire.

Tags

Graduate Students

student spotlight

student success

student experience

MBA News

Systems, Shakers, and Science: How one UCR MBA Student is Quantifying the Perfect Cocktail

ilseu — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 01:05:30 +0000

Systems, Shakers, and Science: How one UCR MBA Student is Quantifying the Perfect Cocktail ilseu Thu, 01/22/2026 - 17:05 More News Staff Writer with a little help from AI January 22, 2026

A current UCR MBA student concentrating in Business Analytics, Adru doesn’t just drink cocktails—he analyzes them. His new book, The Data Guide to Cocktails, is the culmination of a journey that began not behind a mahogany bar, but in the rigorous world of Mechatronics Engineering.

From Engineering to Mixology

Nithin Adru mixing a cocktail in his kitchen

Adru’s background is rooted in technical precision. With an undergraduate degree in Mechatronics and a minor in Data Science, he spent years studying systems thinking and analytical problem-solving. When he arrived at UCR to pursue his MBA, he found an environment that encouraged him to apply that academic rigor to his personal passions.

"I chose UC Riverside for its strong focus on interdisciplinary learning," Adru says. "UCR has provided an environment where I can combine academic rigor with creative and independent exploration."

The Science of the Sip

The book grew naturally from Adru’s love for writing and data. Unlike beer or wine, which are often defined by their terroir or fermentation, Adru argues that cocktails offer more room for "intentional design."

"Small changes in ratios, ingredients, or technique can completely alter the experience," he explains. In The Data Guide to Cocktails, he treats classic drinks as experiments, using data-driven insights to understand how flavors and structures interact. While he hasn't bartended professionally, his "hands-on" experimentation with friends has allowed him to treat his kitchen like a laboratory.

Looking Ahead

As he nears graduation, Adru is looking to transition his skills into a career as a business analyst. He aims to apply the same data-driven insights he used in his book to solve real-world business problems. However, his journey into the world of spirits may just be beginning; he hopes to one day step behind a professional bar to see how his theories hold up in a fast-paced environment.

Whether he is optimizing a supply chain or a Whiskey Sour, Adru’s message is clear: data isn't just for spreadsheets—it’s a key to understanding the world, one drink at a time.

Tags

student spotlight

MBA News

A Business Idea Inspired by Her Dogs

ilseu — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 22:36:03 +0000

A Business Idea Inspired by Her Dogs ilseu Wed, 11/26/2025 - 14:36 More News November 26, 2025

It’s a universal problem: Our beloved pets shed, and despite our best efforts, we walk out the door with pet fur on our clothing.

“I was tired of always battling pet hair, and I knew I was not alone in the struggle,” says Lily Luu ’20 MBA about her own experience as a dog owner. “Pet hair getting stuck on clothing can be a nuisance. Many pet parents find themselves having to change outfits or avoid certain colors.”

Luu decided to do something about it and turned both her passion for entrepreneurship and her love of animals into an already growing business launched earlier this year: LUU Lounge, a pet hair-resistant loungewear line made with patent-pending Furoff Fabric, which “solves this problem and lets you simply pat off any fur from the fabric with your hand, no lint roller needed,” says Luu.

Before taking the leap into this solo venture, Luu had some work experience to draw from. Following graduation from the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management with her MBA degree focusing on both marketing and information systems in 2020, she moved around the U.S. to lead software modernization project training and testing programs for various state government agencies. “After several years in tech, I decided to pursue my entrepreneurial dreams and moved back to California,” she says.

Luu readily admits that developing the product was a rigorous process. “I had an idea for a custom pet hair-resistant fabric and needed to find a manufacturer who could bring it to life,” she adds. After months of searching, she “found a partner and went through multiple rounds of samples, tweaking fabric, refining designs, and adjusting sizing until everything was just right,” she says.

“The long back and forth process was well worth the effort to create a product I was proud to offer.”

Instant Demand from Pet Parents

Luu wanted to be sure she had customers: “Before launching and placing my first bulk order, I validated my idea by creating a video for social media,” she says. “The video went viral, and thousands of people showed interest. I decided to build my brand in public, and I shared the journey and all the challenges along the way with my followers.”

On the day of the June launch, she had a waitlist of more than 3,000 people worldwide, she says. “I sold out within a couple of hours, relying solely on organic reach without spending money on paid ads.” Her following has since grown to more than 50,000 people, and she continually creates new viral content showcasing the ease of wiping fur from her innovative leisurewear.

LUU Lounge clothing—unisex sweatshirt-style hoodies and sweatpants—comes in black, strawberry (pink), and matcha (medium green), and is made in small batches. Sizes ranch from XXS to 5XL. Luu lets customers know when new merchandise becomes available on her website.

A Business Helping Animals, Too

A portion of LUU Lounge proceeds benefit furry companions as well. “I am honored to work with Korean K9 Rescue, an amazing organization that saves dogs from high-risk situations and finds them loving homes,” says Luu. The rescue found her through social media, and Luu is a sponsor for their nonprofit animal hospital. “I am proud to help give animals a second chance at life,” she says.

Luu shares more with UCR Business about finding the right fabric, her plans for the future of LUU Lounge, how earning an MBA helped make her idea a reality, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs:

How did you go about finding the fabric for the loungewear?

After months of searching, I found the right manufacturing partner that could make the custom pet hair-resistant fabric, and we went through multiple rounds of samples, making fabric adjustments, refining designs, and fine-tuning sizing until everything was just right. It was a long back-and-forth process.

What’s next for LUU Lounge?

This fall, I am restocking my loungewear sets and introducing new color options. I am also developing new products for future launches and creating a brand ambassador program to expand my reach. I am also assembling a team to support marketing efforts, allowing me to focus more on research and development to grow my product line.

Over the next five years, I envision expanding beyond loungewear into home goods and workwear for pet-related industries, with the goal of eventually scaling into retail stores.

How did your MBA experience shape your approach to building LUU Lounge?

The UCR MBA program taught me the importance of creating a competitive advantage and solving a real problem. A quote from Professor Rich Yueh stuck with me: “Find a hole and fill it.” To succeed, you need to identify your customers’ needs and meet them. Since I decided to build my brand in public, I have involved my community in the process by creating polls to gather their feedback and have used their input to guide my next steps.

During my MBA program, I worked with multiple small business founders on marketing projects, gaining hands-on experience that I now use in my own business. From banding to launch, I have built LUU Lounge as a solopreneur drawing on both my academic studies and internship experiences.

What advice would you give entrepreneurs who are just starting out?

First, let go of your attachment to the outcome. For years, I let the “what ifs” hold me back: “What if it does not work?” What if I fail?” But the other side of that is “What if it does work?” and “What if it works better than you could ever imagine?”

I have found it crucial to keep an experimental mindset, be open to trying new ideas, and treat it as an opportunity to see what works and what doesn’t. Use what you learn to improve rather than fearing mistakes.

Most importantly, enjoy the journey because the growth you gain from pursuing your own idea is truly unlike anything else.

Tags

Applying an MBA To Make a Difference

cfabi002 — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 20:28:23 +0000

Applying an MBA To Make a Difference cfabi002 Fri, 10/17/2025 - 13:28 More News Darin Estep October 17, 2025

Wendy Romero ’19 BA ’22 MBA

Wendy Romero ’19 BA ’22 MBA arrived at UCR with plans to become a doctor. She also had a passion for a cause she had championed since middle school: preventing bullying and suicide.

The passion won out. Romero soon changed her higher education plans to focus on ways to grow and sustain the organization she had founded in high school, the Love 4 Life Association.

“I realized at some point that this nonprofit work is what I want to do for the rest of my life,” Romero said. “There's nothing more rewarding than ending a day and feeling happy with what you did that day. And when you start to see the difference you can make through your education and your hard work, nothing is more valuable than that.”

As a sophomore at UCR, she incorporated Love 4 Life as a nonprofit and changed her major from biochemistry to political science/public service. All the while, she kept working on Love 4 Life.

“I remember thinking, ‘Well, if I want to do this for the rest of my life, I have to figure out a way to make Love 4 Life sustainable in a way that it can grow,’” Romero recalled. “And I thought, ‘UCR has one of the best MBA programs out there, so I would like to continue here.’”

Love 4 Life student ambassadors at Innovative Horizons Charter School in Perris host a campaign encouraging their peers to say kind things to themselves.

Resolving to make a difference

The lessons Romero learned at the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management had a profound influence on her role as CEO of the nonprofit, which was inspired by a deeply personal experience.

While attending middle school in Perris, less than 20 miles away from Riverside, Romero noticed a classmate had stopped showing up for class. Her teacher would only say the student could use some prayers. Romero reached out to the student but didn’t get a response. Only when the classmate returned to school weeks later did Romero learn she had tried to take her own life.

“I was shocked that one of my classmates was going through so much, and I didn't even notice,” she said. “I felt like, ‘How is it possible? We're a classroom of just 30 students, we see each other all day every day, and no one noticed that she was going through something?’”

Romero resolved to do something about it. The next year, as a high school freshman, she began Love 4 Life as a club with just five members. It doubled the next year. By her junior year, they needed two classrooms to have enough space for club meetings. Other schools started
asking about getting involved.

That resolve to make a difference followed her to UCR, where she gained new tools to help Love 4 Life reach even more people. Today the organization, headquartered in Perris, provides evidence-based anti-bullying, suicide prevention and mental health programs for schools,
students, parents and families across the region. Romero credits her MBA experience with a restructuring that has allowed the group to reach more lives.

Student ambassadors at Rancho Verde High School who are part of Love 4 Life’s student program to create a positive school climate. Love 4 Life was founded by Wendy Romero ’19 BA ’22 MBA.

‘They cared about my dreams’

“The education I got truly aligned with the work I was doing,” Romero said. “UCR helped shape me into the leader that I am today, which aligns very closely with the spaces that I like to create in Love 4 Life — spaces of safety, positivity, growth, being there for one another, making a
difference.”

Romero said she never felt a disconnect at UCR between a business education and its application to the nonprofit world.

“I was never told, ‘Oh, it’s all about business and making a profit,’” she said. “It was always, ‘Make a difference in other people's lives.’ And that's why I felt like I belonged there.”

Romero gave an example: In one class project about internships and creating proposals for specific companies, she asked the professor if she could apply her project to Love 4 Life.

“He was so supportive about it, and every time I would make a presentation, he would give me advice,” she said. “I think that's when I learned this was a place where they cared about my dreams and goals. At UCR, you're able to tailor your dreams and that education and information into your own.”

Wendy Romero ’19 BA ’22 MBA, founder and CEO of Love 4 Life, participated on the Entrepreneur Panel at the AGSM Women’s Conference.

Family ties and enduring connections

Romero also is quick to credit the inspiration and support she has received from family.

“My grandmother always told me to not give up, and I always saw her give back to her community by giving food, helping with medical bills, and more. She inspires me every day,” Romero said. “My parents supported me from the beginning by sponsoring all the materials and snacks for the students, transportation and more. They always believed in me.”

Her appreciation extends to other types of family — the city of Perris and the community of UC Riverside — that have contributed to the success of Love 4 Life.

Last spring, the AGSM Graduate Student Association partnered with Love 4 Life on a day of giving. The students designed and hosted a mental health workshop at a high school.

“It was so impactful,” Romero said. “One of the high school students told me, ‘I really appreciated and connected with the UCR students because I felt like they cared.’ Some of the students were really nervous about life after high school, so they felt understood.”

As CEO, Romero devotes a lot of her time to administrative work, directing the organization’s strategy. But she still makes a point to stay involved with services to remain mission-centered.

“It reminds me of how valuable our work is,” she said. “Whether it's a student who was quiet for so long and at the end of the week we finally made them smile, or when you see a kid sitting at lunch alone and you inspire other students to go and make friends with them.

“That always fills my heart. I love it,” she said. “When you start to see the difference you can make through your education and your hard work, nothing is more rewarding and valuable.”

Tags

“Supersafe Beauty” at Juice Cosmetics

cfabi002 — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 20:23:33 +0000

“Supersafe Beauty” at Juice Cosmetics cfabi002 Fri, 10/17/2025 - 13:23 More News October 20, 2025

Simran Kamra ’24 MBA

Juice Cosmetics is a family affair, and Simran Kamra ’24 MBA grew up in the business.

“I was always surrounded by colors, creativity, and conversations about beauty,” says Kamra. “Makeup was a natural part of my environment, and from a young age, I was fascinated by how it could empower and transform.

“This early exposure shaped my interest and passion for the industry.”

Today, Kamra is director of innovations at Juice Cosmetics, a “clean” beauty brand focused on safe ingredients with superior performance, based in her hometown, Mumbai, India.

“Juice cosmetics is deeply rooted in family legacy and vision. My grandfather dreamed of creating beauty that was bold, safe, and affordable,” says Kamra. “That dream was carried forward by my father who founded Juice Cosmetics in 2014 with the goal of bringing clean, accessible, and expressive beauty to the Indian consumer.”

The name, “Juice,” reflects that brand’s personality, she adds: “Vibrant, energetic, and inclusive—just like the kind of beauty we want to encourage.”

An MBA to Juice Her Career

Kamra had a plan when she enrolled in the MBA program at UCR’s A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management (AGSM). “My long-term vision was always to return to India and contribute meaningfully to the family business,” she says.

“However, I wanted to step outside my comfort zone first and learn from global business environments, build an international perspective, and understand how innovation drives brand growth.”

As she reflects on some of the most valuable experiences at AGSM, the range of views she encountered among fellow students and faculty was significant. “The exposure to working and collaborating with people from diverse cultural backgrounds broadened my perspective, improved my communication s skills, and helped me develop a more inclusive and global approach to leadership,” she says.

“The experience also sharpened my marketing acumen and strengthened my ability to innovate within the beauty and wellness space.”

Now steadfastly anchored in that space as she had planned, Kamra leads new product development initiatives in her position as director of innovations. “My role covers the entire product lifecycle—from trend research and identifying market gaps, to formulation, packaging, sampling, color curation, branding, and launch planning.”

She also develops go-to-market and market entry strategies to make sure each product aligns with consumer needs and business objectives, she adds. Kamra works closely with cross-functional teams to make sure every product delivers on performance and the company’s “clean beauty values.”

‘Supersafe Beauty’

The company’s slogan is “Supersafe Beauty,” and underscores Juice’s commitment to their clean beauty values. “Very few brands in India manufacture their own makeup, but we do,” says Kamra. “We combine modern biochemistry with the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda, ensuring every product is clean, effective, and trustworthy.”

Juice has also launched a transparency program called “Label Padho, Hoshiyaar Bano,” which means “Read the Label, Be Smart.”

“We maintain full transparency and traceability, knowing every ingredient used,” she says of their in-house R&D, which includes claims testing (confirming what is promised on the label is true). “Our approach is deeply personal, and the team and I test products ourselves before launch to ensure they meet our safety, performance, and sensorial benchmarks.”

Developing Strong Ties with Customers

Currently, Juice is available online and in more than 30,000 stores across India and on Amazon.com in the United States. The company is also expanding internationally.

“A fun and surprising part of the process is that some of our best ideas have come from spontaneous customer feedback or late-night team brainstorms,” says Kamra. “What I enjoy most is seeing an idea come to life and being embraced by customers.”

The most challenging part of the fast-changing, trend-conscious cosmetic industry? “Timing and launching the product at the right moment,” she says.

“Juice is a personal dream, and I’m excited to keep pushing boundaries and making beauty better, cleaner, and more empowering.”

Tags

UCR Business Grad Programs Rank High Nationally

ilseu — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 17:05:05 +0000

UCR Business Grad Programs Rank High Nationally ilseu Tue, 04/08/2025 - 10:05 More News UCR News April 08, 2025

UC Riverside’s business, education, and engineering programs placed high in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 rankings of graduate programs in the U.S.

The School of Business climbed 17 positions for its part-time Master of Business Administration, or MBA, program to rank No. 56 in the nation. The Marlan and Rosemary Bourns College of Engineering, or BCOE, ranked No. 89 overall, saw increases in five programs. The School of Education ranked No. 90 overall among 258 schools with doctoral-level programs.

U.S. News and World Report published its rankings of master’s and doctoral programs on April 8, which is based on data including reputational surveys sent to academics and industry professionals and students’ postgraduate outcomes.

The School of Business’s part-time MBA program saw the biggest increase but its full-time MBA program also climbed two positions to tie for No. 88 among Best Business Schools. The previous year, the school, which opened a new academic building last year, climbed 20 positions in the rankings.

The ranking also found that 60% of graduates were employed within three months of graduation and that the average annual salary plus bonuses was $87,276.

“Our improved ranking reflects our continued investments in a strong MBA program,” said Yunzeng Wang, dean of the School of Business. “We just opened a state-of-the-art facility and our MBA graduates go on to get great jobs with good salaries. We expect our ranking will continue to improve as word gets out about the quality of our programs.”

At BCOE, computer engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, and materials science and engineering all rose in the rankings and were among the top 70 of all graduate engineering programs ranked nationwide.

“The graduate programs in our college are key to advancing our students' professional and scholarly goals,” said Christopher S. Lynch, the college’s dean. “These rankings demonstrate our effectiveness in preparing master's and doctoral students for distinguished careers in academia, research, and leadership roles.”

BCOE’s environmental engineering program saw the most significant gains, ranking No. 54, up three positions from last year. The computer engineering and computer science programs moved up to No. 53 and No. 54, respectively. Similarly, the electrical engineering program increased its ranking by two slots to No. 63. The materials science and engineering program ranked at No. 70, an increase of one position.

U.S. News & World Report, the standard-bearer among college rankings, publishes its much-anticipated undergraduate rankings every fall. In the most recent rankings, released in fall 2024, UCR was ranked No. 1 nationally in social mobility, which considers the degree to which a university elevates its graduates to a higher standard of living.

Tags

Rankings

MBA News

Making Connections To Drive Good Decisions

cfabi002 — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 21:46:03 +0000

Making Connections To Drive Good Decisions cfabi002 Mon, 03/17/2025 - 14:46 More Blog Posts March 17, 2025

Sheetal Janala had a decade of business experience, a series of rewarding opportunities where she managed client relationships, oversaw advertising and developed brands. Her professional path took her from her native India to Ireland.

It was there, where she worked in marketing for the cinema industry, that she approached a turning point: Was it time to return to school to earn an MBA?

In the end, that decision was made easier by the business discipline that inspires her most.

“I love everything about marketing — connecting with an audience, storytelling, understanding the psychology of the consumer,” Janala said. “And I aspire to be a global marketing leader. So, that’s why I thought pursuing my MBA at this moment would be a right decision.”

Then came the next decision: Where would she study?

After analyzing all her options, Janala chose the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management. She enrolled last fall and hit the ground running.

‘It gives you that edge’

AGSM rose to the top of Janala’s choices for the diversity of its enrollment and faculty, its proximity to the tech industry in California, and the STEM-designated discipline of its MBA program.

“UCR provides a big advantage because their whole two-year program is built through a proper STEM degree structure,” she said. “That is an important consideration for students. It gives you that edge, because you think not just about the theoretical aspects, but also about data, analytical backgrounds. You are equipped to reach strategic solutions to any challenge.”

Another important part of the MBA experience has been the wide range of opportunities to connect with peers and alumni, Janala said.

As a first-year student, she already is a member of the Product Club and AGSM Women in Business, and has helped recruit industry leaders and alumni to speak on campus.

“I always believe in learning from my peers, and UCR provides a lot of platforms for that,” she said. “The faculty is also amazing, giving you one-to-one sessions to guide you. The alumni and outside advisers make a huge difference because they provide a perspective beyond the classroom.”

Making connections

That enthusiasm for connection makes marketing a natural fit for Janala.

“The best part about marketing is storytelling with successful impact on your audience,” she said. “When you are successful, you are connecting so meaningfully that people listen to you. And they take what you say into consideration with their everyday life.”

Janala uses the same approach in pursuing her MBA. And she recommends all students take advantage of these opportunities to hear different points of view.

This can be useful in building a career, exploring other disciplines, or making the right choice in major decisions — as when Janala considered whether it was time to pursue her MBA.

“I faced that decision when I had some experience, but there are younger students who in the future may want to pivot or make that decision to upskill themselves,” she said. “That's why I feel it’s important to be involved and understand other perspectives. There will be a time where everyone will face that hard decision that is important in your life.”

To help fellow students gain access to those multiple perspectives, Janala uses her extensive involvement in student groups to promote networking. She recruits alumni and professionals to speak on campus, is active on LinkedIn, creates flyers to publicize campus activities, and helps organize case competitions.

“I want to create an impact and give back and create a legacy,” she said.

“That's one of the things I love about UCR, because it gives us an opportunity through these clubs to build your network as well as your practical knowledge. UCR gave this opportunity to us.”

Tags

MBA News

"The Key is Being Adaptable and Endlessly Curious"

ilseu — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 01:17:01 +0000

"The Key is Being Adaptable and Endlessly Curious" ilseu Mon, 01/13/2025 - 17:17 More News January 10, 2025

Aaron Saltzman, ’21 MBA, was a self-described “theater nerd” in high school who envisioned a career in the entertainment industry. So how did he end up as a top marketing executive in 3D animated visual aids?

The answer can be found in a professional journey that includes an undergraduate degree in international relations, working on political campaigns, helping build a tech startup, overseeing marketing for a winery resort, and the launch of a wine brand.

In 2021, with two quarters remaining in his Professional MBA program at the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management, Saltzman was hired to lead the marketing team at DK Global as their marketing director. As he immersed himself in the company’s growth opportunities, more and more of what he had learned at AGSM became relevant — from consumer behavior principles to statistical and quantitative analyses. Two years later, that knowledge combined with hard work paid off with a promotion to chief marketing officer.

In fact, if Saltzman’s career path were assessed like a wine it might be described as full-bodied and balanced.

There were some important lessons along the way, as Saltzman shared recently during an alumni panel discussion for School of Business students.

Before becoming chief marketing officer at DK Global, a Redlands-based leader in 3D animated visual aids for trial attorneys, Saltzman saw campaigns that weren’t won, career choices that weren’t the right fit, jobs that didn’t work out.

“There were victories, too,” he said. “But I like that Nelson Mandela quote: ‘I never lose. I either win or I learn.’ The key is being adaptable and endlessly curious.”

‘UCR set a high bar’

That willingness to learn help convince Saltzman to go back to school, even after years of marketing experience, to earn his graduate degree.

“I believed that I was a good marketer, but it occurred to me at a certain point: ‘There's a lot of stuff that I don't know. Maybe I need to go back to school,’” he said. “That was a big reason for approaching UCR.”

He explored programs at several universities, but “UCR set a high bar,” he said.

While speaking with Sabine M. Freij, assistant dean of graduate programs, he learned about EPIC and the Small Business Development Center on campus. That appealed to his startup background. Then he asked about studies into behavioral economics, Freij invited him to observe a behavioral economics class led by Associate Professor Boris Maciejovsky.

“It blew my mind,” he said. “He was talking about decision points — this experimental model about when people stop gambling or when people stop participating in activities. And it stuck with me. It was the first MBA-level lesson that I learned, and it drives my email marketing strategy today.”

Lasting lessons

Saltzman cites multiple other examples of how his education at UCR equipped him for his profession.

He gained new perspective on the needs of the accounting department. He grew his understanding of databases and information systems so he can submit useful requests to the IT team. During a course on brand management led by Associate Professor of Marketing Mingyu (Max) Joo, he learned how to apply a regression analysis to marketing — a tool he uses today to guide strategies at DK Global.

“Having an MBA has been really valuable because it has given me more tools to apply to these increasingly complex marketing scenarios where I need to understand what our target customers need,” he said.

“And it’s not just that at the tactical or strategic level for marketing campaigns, but also how to develop teams, how to mentor and nurture them, how to get them to perform at a higher level.”

‘Build your village’

Another lesson Saltzman has learned along the way is the importance of forging meaningful connections. Not only is that an essential skill in marketing, but it’s also important in building any career. And it’s a big reason he is enthusiastic about maintaining ties to UCR.

“One of the points I made during the panel discussion was that, as you're moving up in your career, you need to build your village,” he said.

“As you work your way up in the ranks, when you get into leadership positions, there aren’t enough hours in the day to accomplish the things that you want to,” Saltzman said. “You need to build a village of people you trust, who you like, who you enjoy working with, who enjoy working with you.”

Each person’s village is composed of people from their communities of involvement, he said. For him, that includes the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management (AGSM).

“AGSM has been this wonderful community of incredibly smart, driven, capable people — this incredible knowledge base and resource base that I don't want to give up,” he said. “I want to be part of for as long as I can.”

Tags

MBA News

Meet the UCR School of Business MBA Class of 2026

ilseu — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 23:55:05 +0000

Meet the UCR School of Business MBA Class of 2026 ilseu Wed, 12/04/2024 - 15:55 More News Meghan Marrin | Poets & Quants December 05, 2024

This article was recently published on Poets & Quants, a premium online resource for prospective graduate business students worldwide. Also read the second part of the article: "A Q&A with UCR AGSM Leadership."

Ambitious, driven, and collaborative. These are just a few words to describe a UC-Riverside Anderson Graduate School of Management MBA student. They’re everything you’d expect to find at a business school that ranked No. 78 in the United States this year.

If you’re looking for students who are strong team players, you’ll find them here.

They come to the school with all sorts of interests, from marketing, tech, and finance to AI and beyond. It’s clear that Riverside AGSM MBAs possess the drive and capability to make a significant impact in the world.

WHY NOW AND WHY RIVERSIDE?

Why are they pursuing their MBA, and why did they choose Riverside? For some, it’s about personal growth and new opportunities. Others are looking to gain deeper insight into different fields, or build out their professional network.

Class of 2026 MBA students in front of the brand new UCR School of Business Building

MBA Alec Kazmier is a Riverside local driven by his constant desire to push his personal limits and continue learning. He plans to pursue innovative ventures within international markets.

“I am pursuing my MBA to accelerate my personal and professional growth, and this was the right time for me to do so because I feel ready to tackle new challenges and leverage advanced skills to make a significant impact in my field,” he shares.

Historically, about half of the school’s MBAs are international students. One of them, Pin-Yu Huang, came to Riverside from Taiwan.

“This is the perfect time for me to pursue my MBA because I’ve discovered my true passions, “ she says. As a sales and marketing specialist in the petrochemical industry, she has returned to business school to sharpen her skills in one specific area: data.

“I’m eager to learn how to extract and analyze information and build data-driven strategies to gain deeper insights and advance my career,” she says.

Wanting to dive deeper into finance and investment while maintaining her passion for golf, MBA Gabrielle Kiger came to Riverside to gain a competitive edge in the job market. “This seemed like the right time for me because I still have one more year of eligibility to play golf: I can continue to both grow my academic knowledge and play the sport that I love.”

WHAT STANDS OUT AT RIVERSIDE?

There are many factors that make Riverside an attractive option for students. For Kiger, it was the abundance of career fairs and valuable networking opportunities with highly selective corporations. “This is important to me because I am able to speak with them personally and learn more about their jobs and how their companies function,” she says.

Another important draw for her was the chance to meet with Riverside alumni and their networks.

Students in front of the new Finance & Analytics Lab in the new building

Having experienced many cultures as an avid traveler and first generation student, MBA Dyami Ruiz-Martinez found Riverside’s dedication to working with local companies particularly appealing. “As a resident of the region, I was particularly drawn to UCR’s MBA because of the school’s active role in shaping the region’s economic and social development,” he says.

Innovation and global business perspectives: That’s what stood out to Kathiroli Vasu about the AGSM. “Understanding how to manage innovation effectively is crucial for my career goals, especially in a rapidly evolving sector like automotive,” she says.

FAVORITE CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

A native of India, Vasu has led many successful projects at Norton Motorcycles and is looking to drive change in the industry. “I have joined the school’s Product Club and am excited about the workshops and collaboration activities.”

Also a member of the Product Club is dance enthusiast Richa Rishu. “I love being part of a collaborative environment engaging in discussions about product development, strategy, and innovation, along with an ambassador leadership role,” says Rishu.

Rishu recently worked for HDFC Bank as an operations manager. Though her classes started this fall, she got a good glimpse at life at Riverside months back through their Summer with UCR and Business Ready programs.

“I thoroughly enjoyed each orientation session as they were informative, innovative, and fun,” she says.

Looking to boost his competitiveness and step into a management role, MBA Bart Archuleta is ready to leverage his local knowledge and connections as he takes his career to the next level. He has worked at Riverside’s VA school as a Certifying Official Assistant.

“As an undergraduate, I was very involved with the campus Student Veterans Organization, and I plan to continue in this capacity, assisting and networking with other veterans to better our community.”

He is still with the organization, and recently led a fossil dig for veterans.

UCR Business Class of 2026 MBA students in front of the UCR Barn

KEY TAKEAWAYS THUS FAR

Among the many things that AGSM MBAs experience, what memories resonate the most with them? Thus far, Archuleta was surprised to learn that the amount of learning that he retains comes down to how much he chooses to apply himself. On a non-academic level, he is learning how important and enjoyable networking can be.

“I was able to secure two separate internships that would’ve been much harder to obtain had it not been for the connections I’ve made.”

Film enthusiast and MBA Blake Sanchez has learned how crucial it is to both solve technical problems and communicate effectively. “The way you approach conversations, including your tone and consideration for others’ perspectives, can be the key to avoiding conflict and completing tasks efficiently,” he shares.

On a more personal level, Sanchez didn’t expect to get to know others so quickly. “I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how quickly a sense of community forms in the program despite most of us not knowing each other beforehand,” he adds.

Currently employed for Pfizer as a health and science professional in women’s health, MBA Aliyah Nelson is passionate about making a positive impact in healthcare locally and internationally. “Many of the assignments and projects involve solving actual business problems and how to effectively use resources in the real business world,” she shares.

She didn’t expect AI to be such a prominent part of the curriculum, and says it has been fascinating to see how these tools can be leveraged for decision-making, data analysis, and optimizing business processes. “This knowledge has opened my eyes to new possibilities for innovation,” says Nelson.

LESSONS TO PASS ON TO FUTURE MBAs

For those looking to join the Riverside MBA family, Nelson advises prospective students to “clearly articulate your experiences, strengths, accomplishments, and motivations in your application.”

She also suggests applicants “take the time to network and reach out to current students, alumni, and faculty” to gain insight and to help them get a better sense of the community and decide if the school is the right fit for them.

Growing up in India, business analyst and MBA Surbhi Kwatra was always challenging herself to do something new every day, Her advice to prospective MBAs? “Just be yourself and let your unique background and experience tell a story about who you are.”

Like Nelson, she also suggests prospective students speak to the current students and alumni to learn more and get insights about the program.

Next Page: A Q&A with members of AGSM’s leadership team and profiles of 10 members of the Class of 2026.

Page 2

Tags

Poets & Quants

MBA News

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.

Tags