Chanty Ayala

Contact Chanty

What inspired you to pursue graduate study in commerce, and what are your goals for the program?

Throughout my undergraduate years, I often felt uncertain about the exact path I wanted to pursue, but I remained committed to advancing my education. I sought a program that would combine my background in science with my growing interest in business. After exploring different options, I realized that the Master’s in Commerce Program, with a track in Biotechnology, was the perfect fit. While I have always been drawn to business, I sometimes questioned my ability to succeed in a rigorous, accelerated program. Attending an informational session helped put those doubts to rest. Learning about the program’s collaborative and hands-on environment reassured me that, with focus and determination, I could excel and achieve my goals.

What courses or topics in commerce are you most excited to explore during the program?

I’m really excited for Frontiers in Biotechnology II because it dives into the latest biotech innovations and how they connect to real-world business. It feels like a great way to bridge my interest in biotech with strategy and analytics.

What drew you to the M.S. in Commerce Program at UVA McIntire?

What really drew me to the M.S. in Commerce at UVA McIntire was the sense of community I felt right away. From the info session to the interview, everyone I spoke with was supportive and kind, and it reminded me of what I genuinely enjoyed about my undergraduate experience at UVA. That positive experience made me want to explore the graduate programs here knowing it would be the right environment for me to grow further.

What are you most looking forward to as you begin the M.S. in Commerce Program?

I’m really excited for the Global Immersion Experience because it’s such a unique chance to see how business actually works in different parts of the world. I think it’ll be amazing to take what we’ve learned in class and experience it in real global settings, while also getting to work closely with my classmates in a completely different environment. I’m looking forward to learning how culture, economics, and strategy all come together in international business.

What extracurriculars, clubs, or activities are you hoping to get involved with during your time here?

Right now, I am working as a Program Assistant Intern and Mobility Technician at the hospital, and I’m also a recipient of the Community Public Service Fellowship. I’m excited to continue building on these experiences while branching out and getting involved in clubs and activities at McIntire as the year progresses, meeting new people, and exploring new interests along the way.

What’s one place in Charlottesville (or on Grounds) you’re most excited to visit or explore?

Since I spent four years at UVA for undergrad, I’m really excited to explore more of downtown Charlottesville, checking out the restaurants, cute shops, and local spots I didn’t get a chance to fully enjoy before. It’ll be fun to experience the city in a new way while diving into the graduate program.