Michael Rader

Contact Michael

What appealed to you about the M.S. in Commerce Program?

I was initially drawn to the M.S. in Commerce Program after seeing the success of past student’s who have gone through the program. I realized that I needed to develop more extensive business competencies in order to be successful in what I am pursuing after my studies, and the program illustrated that it provided just that right away.

What are you looking forward to or have you enjoyed most so far in the M.S. in Commerce Program?

So far, I’ve enjoyed the professional atmosphere that envelopes the program. Every day in the classroom feels as if I am being prepared more and more to face the challenges of everyday corporate world, and I think that is going to be invaluable next year. Looking forward, I am most excited about the Global Immersion Experience (GIE) that we will embark on at the end of studies in Charlottesville.

What are your academic interests?

I’ve always been interested in healthcare and life sciences, but as I progressed through undergrad I became increasingly interested in business/finance topics. During undergrad, I studied Economics and Biology, so the Biotechnology Track is aligned with an extension of my undergrad studies. With the M.S. in Commerce Program, I am able to develop relevant business expertise while continuing to pursue topics that I have always been intrigued by.

What clubs and organizations were you involved with during undergrad?

I was a member of Portico Impact Fund, an ESG investment fund here at McIntire. I also did a great deal of research in the Department of Pharmacology at UVA’s School of Medicine, as well as work with the American Red Cross.

What are your hobbies?

When I am not in the classroom, my favorite hobbies mostly revolve around sports, particularly baseball and football. Throughout undergrad, I have gotten very into golf and love playing on the weekends with my friends. Besides that, I love fishing on the Chesapeake Bay during my summers.

Name three places on your bucket list to travel to and why.

1. Maldives: I love clear water.
2. Iceland: The Northern Lights are fascinating to me.
3. Game 7 of a Washington National series: I want to experience the Game 7 atmosphere, if the Nats ever make the playoffs.

What is your favorite restaurant, coffee shop, or place to visit in Charlottesville?

My favorite restaurant in Charlottesville has got to be Take It Away, a UVA classic.