NYU Stern Undergraduate College

 

“The best business students take different pieces of information from various areas of study and learn to integrate them to arrive at solutions to problems,” remarks Stern junior and Finance major David Sokolow. “Since business encompasses every trade, it’s essential to incorporate liberal arts into a business education to become a well-rounded individual.”

To that end, in addition to taking Stern’s Liberal Arts core classes, David is complementing his business coursework with a minor in Studio Art at the NYU Steinhardt School. “Although business and art seem worlds apart, they are actually much more connected than I originally perceived,” he marvels. “Studio Art is all about being creative, but also being very careful and detailed in your work. Finance, surprisingly, is the same way: markets constantly change and people seek unique, creative ways to make money while adhering to business standards.” David adds that studying two seemingly disparate subjects has taught him to adapt to different learning styles and helped him take his Stern learning to the next level. “The creativity involved in Studio Art has helped me think of new ways to approach finance.”

In addition to pursuing an art minor, David has added breadth to his Stern education by taking various academic electives, likes sports business classes, and by studying abroad in Singapore through the International Business Exchange program (IBEX). His academic experience has also been enhanced by his campus involvement (he is director of communications for the Stern Student Council) and community service work (he recently traveled to Costa Rica with Stern International Volunteers). “Student involvement builds leadership, and service work teaches me to look at situations from a new perspective,” he explains, “just like studying art allows me to see business in a new light.” He adds that Stern has also instilled in him a good work ethic. “No matter what I pursue, I know I’m prepared to take on the challenge. Everyday, Stern is teaching me new ways to think about the world.”  

Stern senior Sarah Ross added another global experience to her business education when she worked at Samsung C&T Corporation in Korea last summer. Although Sarah previously studied abroad at NYU in London and traveled to Buenos Aires on her International Studies Program (ISP) trip, she was eager for an international work experience that would allow her to apply what she’s learning in the classroom to real life. “I’m co-majoring in International Business and after gaining exposure to foreign business operations during ISP, I relished the opportunity to learn more about the dynamics of international business from a non-U.S. perspective. I was especially excited to go to Korea to experience Asian culture and business customs firsthand.

”Sarah, who found the Samsung position through the NYU Wasserman Center’s CareerNet, was one of 11 global interns at the company who worked alongside native Korean interns. “I was placed in the Brand Business division, which handles marketing, sales and production. Interning there augmented what I’ve learned at Stern about international trade and marketing.” In addition, Sarah’s internship taught her a lot about foreign business customs. “Working in Korea was an education in itself,” she explains. “Asian business culture is different than ours, and much emphasis is placed on following social customs. Although I was unaware of many of the practices at first, my fellow interns and co-workers were warm and helpful. They explained the origins of the customs and showed me how to properly follow them. This not only gave me a better understanding of Asian culture, but it also provided me with a deeper knowledge of Korean history.”

Sarah credits her time abroad with broadening her horizons and helping her grow personally. “Before college, I had only ever lived in New York. Thanks to NYU and Stern, both of which emphasize global study, I have been able to travel, live, and work internationally. Not only have these experiences been the most gratifying I’ve ever had, they have also taught me that I can easily adapt to new surroundings. I know that I definitely want to work abroad again in the future.”   

Sarah Vandy
Class of 2010

“As a transfer student and a military veteran, I followed an unconventional path to Stern,” remarks junior Sarah Vandy, “but my experiences leading up to now have only strengthened my drive to succeed both in college and in the future.” Sarah enlisted in the U.S. Army after high school and immediately deployed to Bosnia. After seven years of active duty – including 15 months in Iraq – she realized she was ready for new challenges and decided to return to school. She enrolled in community college in Maryland and excelled at her business studies. After visiting a Stern open house, Sarah set her sights on transferring to NYU. “I fell in love with New York City and with the program Stern offered,” she recalls. “Back home, I put NYU signs up all over my house until I received my admission letter. When it arrived, my mother and I jumped around the kitchen and definitely scared the cat!”

Arriving at Stern, Sarah immediately bonded with other transfer students during Welcome Week. “A kinship developed instantly, and I met some of my closest friends.” Getting involved on campus also enhanced her sense of community and helped her meet more people. “I joined the crew team and I’m also a member of the Reserve Officers' Training Corps. What attracted me to both activities was the team spirit and the opportunity to develop the camaraderie I miss from the Army.”

Sarah says her experiences thus far have been gratifying and have influenced her outlook on life. “Serving in the military has given me perspective on what’s important. I know how fortunate I am to be able to return to school and to have options for my future, unlike many of the people I met in Iraq.” She adds that her time abroad gives her a unique viewpoint when learning about the global marketplace. “The new concepts Stern teaches me are even more interesting because of what I’ve seen and done in other countries. For instance, when I was stationed in Iraq, our unit tried to help relieve poverty on a small scale by hiring Iraqi civilians to work as contractors within our camps. After studying microfinance at Stern, I realize the potential for progress on a much larger level. Making micro-loans available to Iraqis can help increase local commerce and provide them with more opportunities.”

After graduating, Sarah plans to work in consulting for a few years before pursuing her MBA. “All my hard work in the army and in community college paid off when I was accepted to Stern, and I want to continue to challenge myself in the future,” she explains. Sarah also hopes to one day return to Iraq as an officer and use the business knowledge and organizational skills she learned at Stern to help develop local communities there. “With my varied background and ambitious attitude, I believe I can succeed at anything.”   

A recipient of a Winter Break Social Impact Stipend, Stern junior Rohun Pai traveled to Tengeru, Tanzania earlier this year to work with the local community and children in need. “The Stern Social Impact Stipend Program allows students to get involved with social initiatives during time off from school by funding service projects that might otherwise be unrealistic for college students with no income,” Rohun explains. “I chose to help at a Tanzanian orphanage and live with a local family because I love working with children and was interested in an experience that would totally immerse me in a foreign culture.”

Each day Rohun visited the Nkwarenga Orphanage and tidied the facilities before interacting with the children. “My priority was to help the kids with anything they needed, whether it was playing games with them or bathing the young children,” he says. “I formed such amazing relationships with the kids at the orphanage and with the locals as well. Despite their lack of water, electricity and other Western amenities, the people of Tanzania are so content and exuberant. I had a wonderful time with my host family, who was courteous and warm.”

Rohun, who is majoring in Finance and Accounting and minoring in Social Entrepreneurship at the NYU Wagner School of Public Service, is dedicated to continuing his work and plans to return to the orphanage. “I miss the children and I’m also excited to help build a library for the community, an unprecedented venture in Tengeru. The library will begin the process of creating infrastructure in the small village, which is a key component in helping to alleviate the third world of its problems,” he explains. “As future business leaders, we are charged with the socially responsible task of aiding developing countries like Tanzania. Stern’s Social Impact Stipend gives students the means to begin that process early in our careers.”

There are so many opportunities to get involved on campus and immerse oneself in the Stern co-curricular experience, effuses senior Dana Crystal. The camaraderie at Stern is remarkable, and I want both current and prospective students to experience the wonderful sense of community that has helped me meet a diverse group of friends and given me a voice to impact the future of the School.

One of Dana's favorite Stern experiences was co-founding The Little Cafe, an on-campus student-run snack bar. The Little Café grew out of an Entrepreneurial Exchange Group (EEG) members gripe about local food establishments, so the group brainstormed the idea for an affordable Stern coffee shop. As the first CFO of the Little Cafe, I learned a lot about what it takes to launch a business, Dana explains. I applied Stern course work from accounting, finance, management and operations to the real-world by preparing monthly financials, ordering inventory, paying suppliers and employees, and overseeing day-to-day operations. Dana also helped expand the business by opening a catering division that provided food for meetings held by the Deans Office, professors and student clubs.

Today, The Little Cafe is still a hub of activity and employs students across Stern. Working with friends on The Little Cafe really helped me develop a strong sense of Stern community,” Dana comments. And, the cafe and its much-loved trail mix is very popular with students!

Dana hopes to apply everything she's learned both in and out of the classroom to a law career and eventually to launch her own entrepreneurial venture. Stern is readying me to perform in the business world, and my on-campus involvement has taught me about the importance of teamwork, a skill that will help me succeed in the workplace and beyond.

"One of the most amazing things about Stern is its supportive community environment," remarks senior Richard Barbier. "It's so important to have an organization and a group of people you know you can turn to." As treasurer of Stern's student organization SEAD (Student Enrichment for Academic Development), Richard has met a diverse set of friends and helped coordinate many student events. "We've hosted activities such as ice skating in Central Park, attending Knicks games, and seeing Broadway shows."

Through SEAD, Richard has also made strides with a community service program he initiated called the Chain of Mentorship, which connects Stern students with New York City high schoolers to act as mentors during the college planning process. "I recognize how fortunate I am to attend such a prestigious school," Richard explains. "I want to give back to students who may not have the same opportunities and show them their potential for success." Building on his idea, Richard enlisted the help of his peers and Stern administrators to organize a one-day event during which high school students visited Stern and received advice from undergraduates on topics ranging from SAT preparation and financial aid to choosing a major and a career path. "One of my proudest moments from that day was when two students told us that they actually changed their mind about not attending college and now would apply." The Chain of Mentorship has since evolved into a year-long program, and Richard hopes to soon pair the teens involved with Stern undergraduate "coaches" who will communicate with them monthly regarding college preparation.

Richard credits the program's success to the strong support of the Stern community, which he emphasizes includes not just fellow students but administrators and faculty as well. "The initial Chain of Mentorship event took a great deal of planning and the Dean's Office helped every step of the way - providing advice, contacting high schools, and donating items. It's evident that if you want to make an impact, Stern will facilitate your efforts." Richard adds that he may use the Chain of Mentorship concept as a springboard for a future profession. "Stern supported my passion and helped me make a difference in the lives of teenagers, which is something I'm committed to long-term. Taking the time to help the next generation ensures that our own futures as business leaders will thrive as well."

“To succeed in today’s global business environment, it’s critical to balance business knowledge with experiences in other areas,” says Stern senior Sonia Gupta, who recently spent a semester in Prague through NYU Study Abroad. “International study is especially important to becoming a more well-rounded student. Although Prague is not a commonly selected site among Stern students, I used the opportunity to diverge from my business studies for one semester and take liberal arts courses to diversify my education.”

While abroad, Sonia immersed herself in Czech culture, enrolling in Elementary Czech, Czech Art and Architecture, Travel Writing, and Media and Globalization courses. She explains, “Through my coursework I learned the Czech language, explored the history and architecture of the city, cultivated my writing skills and examined the impact of media on the world. These unique and priceless experiences facilitated my personal growth and maturity, while giving me a fresh perspective on my business studies.” She adds that her time abroad has helped improve her marketability to potential employers. “I’ve found that my international experience and Czech language skills are interesting talking points during interviews. Employers want to hire someone who has pushed past their comfort zone and explored new places.”

After graduating, Sonia hopes to one day land a position as a merchandiser/buyer in the fashion industry, which is one of her many passions. She’s had several experiences in the field including a sales job at a high-fashion couture label and an internship with ELLE Magazine in the marketing/merchandising department. “Working in fashion has honed my creative eye,” Sonia explains, “but I’m also looking forward to utilizing my financial skills during my summer internship at Lehman Brothers in the investment management department.”

Sonia reflects on her time in Prague as a life-changing experience. “Not only did I gain a global viewpoint, but I challenged myself in so many ways. I studied topics outside the business realm, met diverse people, strengthened my communication skills and proved to myself that I can flourish anywhere. I’m confident that the combination of my different work experiences coupled with my Stern education – which includes business, liberal arts and my incredible international experience – will catapult me to my dream job and create an unstoppable formula for success!”

“The strength of Stern’s alumni network is integral to the success and diversity of the School and its graduates,” comments Stern sophomore Eugene Ioannou, who recently attended Stern’s After Market Hours Series featuring alumnus Lorenzo Fertitta, gaming entrepreneur and owner of Ultimate Fighting Championship. “I’m interested in the entertainment industry and love to hear stories of successful entrepreneurs,” Eugene explains. “Mr. Fertitta spoke to students and alumni about how he transformed a struggling sport into a respected billion-dollar enterprise. Afterwards, I had the amazing opportunity to meet him and I was impressed by how open and engaging he was.”

Two nights after Fertitta spoke at Stern, he invited a select group of students and alumni to join him at the East Coast Ultimate Fight. “I was privileged to obtain tickets to this rare event and gain a glimpse into this burgeoning sport and its large fan base,” Eugene says. “Realizing how Mr. Fertitta revolutionized the culture of the sport and the industry is inspiring and encourages me in my own career goals. I have an entrepreneurial spirit and strive to work in the film industry as a producer, distributor and financier.”

Eugene’s interest in entertainment led him to become event planner for the Stern Tisch Entertainment Business Association (STEBA). “Through STEBA, I’ve met new friends and shared ideas with people who have similar interests,” he remarks. “The club often invites alumni who work in the entertainment industry to campus events, and is a great avenue for seeking internships and obtaining information about careers in the entertainment world.”

No matter what path he pursues after graduation, Eugene plans to remain connected to Stern. “Even though I’m only a sophomore, I see the importance of staying close with fellow classmates and being part of the alumni network,” he explains. “Stern alumni work in an array of fields, including the entertainment industry, and I hope to leverage the Stern connection when seeking an internship or job. Sharing an alma mater as respected and prestigious as NYU Stern can pay dividends in the long run with the people you meet, work for and partner with in the business world.

Over winter break, Stern sophomore Veena Bontu traveled to San Carlos, Costa Rica to perform community service and work with local youth as part of Stern International Volunteers, the School’s first-ever international community service trip. Veena was one of ten students hand-picked through a selective interview process to participate in the inaugural trip. “When I heard the program was launching, I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to partake in an experience where I could make tangible change,” Veena explains. “It’s so important for business students to be aware of situations abroad and to understand the global environment in which we play a part.”

To that end, Stern International Volunteers aims to bring Stern’s Social Impact Core to life by providing hands-on experience in supporting the needs of communities in developing economies. “In San Carlos we painted an elementary school and befriended the students, singing songs from High School Musical and playing sports with them,” Veena recalls. “We also interacted with many locals, which was an eye-opening experience. We heard from so many Costa Ricans who expressed their wish to vote in America’s presidential elections, since the U.S. economy and business relations have such a large effect on their country’s welfare.” 

In addition to bonding with the locals, Veena says she forged great friendships with the nine other Stern students on the trip. “It was amazing to share this experience with my peers and get to know them on a more personal level outside of the academic environment. Not only did we work together on a worthwhile cause, but we experienced Costa Rican culture together. We had so much fun trying to learn Spanish and traditional dances.”

Veena hopes to one day apply her Stern education and her community service experience to a career in microfinance. “People living in developing countries can benefit from the financial services I’m learning about at Stern, and I want to help make these services more accessible to the less fortunate. By assisting individuals and families in need, we can facilitate a solution to the larger problem of global poverty.

“Often, the best way to learn is from your peers,” remarks senior Alina Costica, who’s been involved in extra-curricular activities with fellow students since the start of her Stern career. “Not only has my participation in several clubs and committees supplemented my in-classroom learning, but it’s also helped me develop into an effective leader.” Alina currently hones her leadership skills as co-chair of the Stern Senior Legacy Campaign, which she views as a great way for students to leave their mark on the School by making a pledge. “As co-chair of the Senior Legacy committee, I have the unique opportunity to help raise funding that will assist in providing scholarships for future students, attract faculty and enhance facilities,” she says.

In conjunction with the Senior Legacy Campaign, Alina is also involved with First Thursdays, a program designed specifically for seniors to continue to build community, solidify friendships and ease their transition into the working world. On the first Thursday of each month throughout their senior year, seniors gather at networking and social events. “Recent activities include mingling with alumni at China Club, playing video games at Dave & Buster’s, and celebrating early graduates at Ruby Foo’s, a popular Asian restaurant. There was even a wine tasting this semester!”

Alina further stresses the value of her extra-curricular experiences, explaining that she’s garnered important tools relevant in today’s global business environment. “I’ve learned to adapt to different cultures and work with different personalities. I’ve sharpened my presentation skills and polished my ability to market a product or idea to others.”

Alina hopes to parlay her skills into a career managing distressed companies and facilitating their renewed success. “Turn-around situations are the perfect circumstances to prove business acumen and leadership skills,” she explains. As she prepares for graduation, Alina reflects on her time spent at Stern. “When I look back on my college years, what instantly comes to mind is my club involvement. Stern academics and extra-curriculars have been so closely intertwined for me that my experience would not nearly have been as enriching without club activities.”

Stern junior Carmine Lengua has been president of his class for the past three years, an experience he says allows him to fully appreciate the diversity at Stern. “I have gotten to know so many different and unique people,” he explains. “Coming from a very homogeneous high school, I discovered an exceptional opportunity to enjoy a broad spectrum of friends.” Carmine was motivated to get involved on campus from the outset because of his commuter status. “Not living on campus, I wanted to be sure that I would still be immersed in the entire Stern experience. By participating, I don’t feel I’m missing out socially.”

In addition to his role as class president, Carmine – who is double-majoring in marketing and finance – works at BlackRock, an asset management firm. “It’s been rewarding to apply skills learned in the classroom to a real job, and my position in the firm has allowed me to experiment with different groups and job functions.” This variety, he says, is important because he is continually discovering new interests that may lead him to his post-college career. To that end, he stresses the importance of broadening horizons through electives to round out his education. “My non-business courses have served as opportunities to learn about a host of interesting topics and have introduced me to new possibilities for the future.”

Although Carmine’s long-term professional goals lie outside of finance, he believes his Stern education has prepared him for almost any career path. “Interestingly I’d like to one day work in the automotive industry, whether as an executive at a manufacturer or as a patron in a racing league,” he says. “Until then I’m gaining experience through my financial positions and through my academic work. My options are open since Stern has given me the tools to succeed in a variety of fields and industries.”

 

“My favorite thing about New York City is how its size is a true illusion,” says Stern sophomore Maeve Molloy.  “It's a huge city, but often it feels quite the opposite.” Maeve is one of many students who enjoys the “big city, tight-knit campus” feel of NYU. “Sometimes,” she says, “I run into the same friend four times between classes!” 

NYU’s Greenwich Village campus contributes to Maeve’s appreciation of NYU. “I love the Washington Square area. Walk around West Fourth Street or Washington Square Park on a sunny day and you're guaranteed to feel the excitement of being a young college student with the vibrancy of the city all around you,” she comments.  NYU students certainly are no strangers to the street-side musicians, performers, and venders that grace campus. To Maeve, “the truly unique, eclectic atmosphere here” is unlike any other place on earth.

Maeve makes sure to venture outside of the Village as well. “I love heading uptown to Fort Tryon Park.  Who knew New York City had a REAL forest?” she chuckles.  “Since I'm from Connecticut and love hiking and outdoor activities, I often make the trip up there to balance bustling city life with a tranquil setting.”

While Maeve is happy to have the forests reminiscent of her hometown so close by, she feels privileged to have a host of new opportunities within the city. “I intern at Irish America Magazine - something I never would have done at home,” she explains.

Maeve has truly found a home for herself in the city.  “The combination of NYU’s location in the Village, the nearby green spaces, the access to internships, and the occasional museum or show is amazing.  Plus, there are so many other opportunities I haven’t taken advantage of yet. I’m glad I have more time to explore New York before graduating.”

As captain of the inaugural NYU Women’s Varsity Golf team, recent Stern graduate Gretchen Johnson knows a thing or two about leadership. "The most important aspect of being a leader is to promote collaboration within your team," Gretchen says. "Whether it's in the classroom, on the fairway, or in the boardroom, an effective leader knows how to listen to her players, pick up on their strengths and encourage teamwork." Gretchen was able to demonstrate these abilities when the NYU Violets played their first ever tournament in March. "I felt extremely proud and honored to be on the course representing NYU and leading my team. I could not stop smiling! It was exhilarating to see our hard work and practice come into fruition and to see our golf bags lined up next to the putting green."

Gretchen explains that the tools she used to lead the golf team are the same tools she learned in the classroom during her years at Stern. "I may have honed my leadership skills on the fairway, but Stern really taught me how to communicate with others and how to make decisions," she reflects. "An important part of the Stern curriculum involves team projects and I found myself naturally assuming leadership roles on many of these. The experience taught me how to relate to my peers and how to work well with a diverse group of people and different personalities." Gretchen adds that it is exactly that diversity that took her education to the next level. "Stern exposed me to a wide range of cultures, perspectives and value systems. It emphasized for me the importance of being culturally conscious, which is crucial for success in the international marketplace."

Gretchen believes her leadership experience and global perspective will facilitate her eventual goals of assuming a top position at a multinational corporation and working abroad. She began her career this summer with a job in Nike's brand marketing department and is now the Running Brand Marketing Specialist for Nike's Chicago office.  This experience is valuable as she plans to stay in the sports marketing field long-term. "I know that with my Stern background and hard work, I'll be able to make my way to the top," she asserts. "Whether it was in the classroom or on the putting green, Stern provided me with a solid foundation of business principles, leadership and teamwork skills, and the ability to create and maintain relationships - all of which will aid me as I progress in my career."

Garrett Stringer
Class of 2008

“People always question why I’m a Stern student when I describe my desired career path,” chuckles Garrett Stringer, a Stern senior whose career aspirations fall outside the traditional realm of business.  “After I graduate I can imagine myself working with National Geographic or Discovery Communications in a film and television production capacity.  I believe my Stern marketing and international business concentrations will give me an edge in becoming an effective producer for one of these globally focused, innovative organizations.”  Garrett is also pursuing a film minor through the NYU Tisch School of the Arts to acquire the technical skills needed to enter the film world.

In addition to unique career aspirations, Garrett’s hobbies are different from those of most New Yorkers.  “I have always thought birds of prey were intriguing,” he explains.  “Outside of class, I train birds of prey for free flight bird shows to promote conservation efforts.” 

Garrett appreciates the flexibility and encouragement he receives at Stern to pursue his interests and passions. “I can chart my own course at Stern, taking some classes outside of business at other NYU schools and even across the globe.  Yet, I feel confident knowing that I’ll graduate with a solid, reputable business background – the foundation for just about any profession.”

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Michalea Delaveris
Class of 2010

Like many incoming college students, Stern sophomore Michalea Delaveris was also nervous about going away to school.  “I was extremely anxious about leaving home for college,” she recalls.   Fortunately, Michalea quickly found comfort in NYU Stern’s Cohort Program, a program designed to provide students with a community of friends and a lifelong network of support.  “Having a small group where I could test the waters really eased my nerves; my cohort made Stern look and feel like a family from the outset,” she reflects. 

Michalea also found that dorm life provided a home away from home.  “Freshman year I found a great deal of comfort in my roommates and neighbors.  Seeing them go through the same emotions and similar experiences made my transition from home to the city much easier,” she asserts.  The dorm-sponsored activities also helped Michalea meet students from other NYU schools and strengthened her bonds with others in her residence hall.

Despite her initial nervousness about attending college, Michalea quickly adapted, and now has a strong support network at her fingertips.  “Everyone here has been willing to help and share a laugh, which is incredibly conducive to making friends,” she explains. 

Now fully integrated into the community, Michalea has decided to become a Stern Orientation Leader to help incoming freshmen transition into their cohorts and the overall NYU Stern community.  “I've had such a great experience thus far thanks in part to the leaders of my cohort freshman year and the tone they set for us.  It’s rewarding to be able to foster these same feelings of comfort and community in others and positively impact their Stern experience.”

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Paul Shaked
Class of 2010

As co-President of NYU’s DormAid, a student-run personal service company for college students, Stern sophomore Paul Shaked truly demonstrates his entrepreneurial spirit.  “I arrange everything, all operations, top-to-bottom including speaking to parents and dealing with dorm cleaners. I also devise marketing campaigns and pursue deals with other student organizations.” Paul combines Stern classroom concepts with real-world business practice to help the business succeed.  “I garner information on marketing and communications taught in my business classes and apply it to the method by which I handle communication with my clients and with the corporate team,” he explains.

Paul also takes advantage of Stern resources outside the classroom to propel the company.  “As a member of Stern’s Entrepreneurial Exchange Group, I have established great contacts and receive helpful advice from fellow group members who are equally passionate about entrepreneurship and eager to discuss DormAid’s future with me.”

Paul’s entrepreneurial curiosity manifests itself outside of DormAid as well.  “I entered Stern’s Berkley Center Business Plan Competition this year with an idea for a fast-casual restaurant concept.  If I win the competition, I will gain the seed capital necessary to actually start my business and see it grow.”

“At NYU Stern, I can view the business world in an academic setting while also exploring entrepreneurship on my own time," Paul explains.  "As a result, I know I will be ready to pursue whichever endeavor I set out to complete because Stern has prepared me well.”

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Sam Baumel
Class of 2009

“It's crucial to complement a business education with a background in liberal arts to succeed in today's increasingly global and diverse business environment," says Stern sophomore Sam Baumel, who is currently studying in London through the NYU Study Abroad program. "My courses abroad have taught me to view business from a larger, holistic perspective and have fueled my passion for integrating art and business."

Sam credits his Contemporary Art in Britain course for opening his eyes to the additional roles art can play besides aesthetic collectible. "European countries treat their art and culture as investment-worthy commodities, and it's important to realize that art galleries, museums and non-profit organizations are businesses too. It's vital that business students are exposed to the arts and non-profit sector not only to better themselves as individuals, but also to awaken them to a plethora of available business opportunities." Sam praises Stern for encouraging the integration of the two arenas through programs such as the Cohen Arts & Culture Experience and the Stern Tisch Entertainment Business Association.

Before returning to New York, Sam plans to continue traveling within Europe. "Studying in London has afforded me the amazing opportunity to visit many other European destinations. Travel is critical for understanding my place in the world and it contributes to my growth as a well-rounded, cultured and confident businessperson." Upon graduation, Sam hopes to transmit his passion into a career in the arts and media. "I want to empower the individual to create and contribute to the world's stage. In the future, quality will reign supreme in media more than it ever has before."

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Alex Clamor
Class of 2009

"College is not only about academic achievement, but also about preparing for life beyond the classroom," comments Stern sophomore Alex Clamor, whose participation in a host of extra-curricular activities has given him insight into what shapes an ideal education. "In-classroom learning coupled with extra-curricular experiences is the best way to prepare for success in a challenging and diversified world."

Alex's involvement in various efforts throughout Stern and NYU serve to enhance his professional development and benefit the community as well. As treasurer of the Stern Business Ethics Society (SBES), he has strengthened his teamwork and leadership skills while planning events for the student body. He also partakes in NYU's "America Reads" program, through which he helps elementary-school students learn to read, write and do math.

Alex believes that while participating in extra-curricular activities is a great way to hone professional skills, it also fosters camaraderie. "Through my endeavors, I've met many intellectual, well-rounded, ambitious individuals and built a terrific network of long-lasting friendships," he says. Many of those friendships have stemmed from his dedicated involvement with the NYU residential community. Currently, Alex serves as the National Communications Coordinator on the Executive Committee of the Inter-Residence Hall Council - an organization that oversees all NYU residence hall governments. In this role, he is able to network with students across campus while exercising interpersonal skills and working on leadership development. "Participating in extra-curricular activities has really enhanced my overall Stern experience. I've made great friends, and I know my experiences will help me succeed in the workplace after I graduate."

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Prakriti Malhotra
Class of 2010

"I chose Stern for its superior business education and exciting academic experience that I knew I couldn't find elsewhere," says Stern freshman Prakriti Malhotra, who cites the introductory Business & Its Publics course as a prime example of Stern's unique curriculum. The class - which meets three times each week and is part of Stern's Social Impact Core - introduces students to the interconnections between business, society, art, politics and philosophy and also welcomes a broad range of guest speakers. "I'm not only learning business basics, but also contemplating relevant ethical issues while hearing from leaders in the field."

In addition to the lecture, the course features separate discussion groups and writing workshops where students expound upon class topics. Prakriti explains that the sessions offer a chance to work on public speaking skills and address critical issues, adding that she is especially privileged to have Dean Sally Blount as her discussion leader. "My classmates and I have the exceptional opportunity to develop a relationship and talk one-on-one with Dean Blount. She creates a warm, welcoming environment where we all feel comfortable speaking our minds, and asks very analytical questions that fuel thought-provoking conversations."

Prakriti's weekly interaction with the Dean has also inspired her to get involved in other ways. "I was accepted for a position on the Strategic Communications Advisory Board - one of the five advisory boards to the deans, and I've signed up for many of the Roundtable Luncheons and Dean's Coffee Hours. I feel so fortunate that I chose Stern, not only for all the amazing opportunities, but also for its warm and supportive community. I've made so many close friends here already - and the Dean knows my name!"

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Chris Chu
Class of 2008

"Although I'm Chinese, I'd never actually been to China. Studying abroad in Shanghai was the perfect opportunity to learn more about my culture while gaining a global perspective to enhance my business education," explains Stern junior Chris Chu, who was among the first group of students at NYU's newest satellite campus last fall. Chris's experience was eye-opening in many ways. "Not only did I deepen my understanding of international business customs, but I also experienced the thrill and diversity of a new culture. I met interesting people, sampled exotic foods and traveled to foreign destinations I would otherwise never have had a chance to visit."

Chris credits two particular courses for facilitating his academic and personal growth while abroad. "Seminars on Contemporary Chinese Issues is a liberal arts course exploring various cultural and political issues affecting China. As a business student, it's important to incorporate liberal arts into my education to better understand how global events impact the business environment." In addition, Chris was inspired by his Chinese language classes. "I feel proud I was able to learn Chinese in a few short months. I'm a better person for this experience and can leverage my new language skills in both my personal and professional life."

Upon graduation, Chris plans to establish an entrepreneurial venture. He feels his Stern education coupled with his study abroad experience will give him a leg up in his career goals. "Stern has provided me with a comprehensive business background and the skill set to succeed, while studying abroad has enhanced my knowledge of how international businesses operate. Because having a global perspective is vital in today's business environment, there's no question every Stern student should take the opportunity to explore the world and spend a semester abroad."

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Lillian Young
Class of 2010

At first glance, business may seem an unlikely career path for an award-winning harpist and accomplished pianist who has performed professionally since the age of three, but as Stern sophomore Lillian Young explains, "Music and business are actually intertwined. From training musicians to marketing performances, business permeates many aspects of the music industry." In fact, Lillian has been running separate performance and teaching ventures since middle school, so it was a natural progression for her to study business in college. Her musical career has taught her discipline, time management and drive - skills she uses to navigate through her Stern experience.

In addition, Stern's dynamic New York City location offers Lillian countless opportunities to keep up with her musical interests while enjoying other attractions as well. "I am thrilled to live so close to concert venues, theaters, museums and other cultural institutions. I'm constantly exploring and learning here - both inside and outside of the classroom."

Lillian credits Stern for broadening her horizons. Prior to enrollment, she was sure she wanted to be a management consultant upon graduation. "Now that I'm actually a student here, I've discovered so many other choices and opportunities that I've decided to leave my options open." Perhaps Lillian will continue to pursue the intersection of business and music, or uncover a new passion. "No matter what I decide to do, I know Stern is preparing me well, ensuring that I get a comprehensive view of business so I can make a well-informed decision about my future."

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Mike DiMeglio
Class of 2008

“There’s no better place to learn about business and the capital markets than New York City