Jennings Brooks
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Undergraduate institution: University of Georgia
Undergraduate major: Journalism
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: President of the Panhellenic Council, The Institute for Leadership Advancement Communications Intern, Research Assistant in the Terry School of Business, Palladia Women’s Society, Order of Omega Honor Society, Academic Honesty Panelist
M.S. in Commerce track: Marketing & Management
Academic interests: Crisis and issues management
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
The two biggest draws to the M.S. in Commerce Program for me were its mission to instill a global mindset in its students and the fact that all students in the program have nonbusiness undergraduate degrees. These two aspects set the program apart in terms of its variety of perspectives and experiences in the classroom.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
I am looking forward to building connections with my classmates in order to create not only a lifelong network, but also foster friendships from which I can learn and grow. I also want to work abroad in my future career, so I am looking forward to the global mindset and diversity of perspectives that the program works to instill in us throughout the year.
What book(s) are you currently reading (not including any that are Program assigned)?
Love in the Time of Cholera; Becoming
If you could go on a cross-country road trip with a famous person, living or dead, who would it be and why?
Emma Stone! On any road trip, I need a great eclectic playlist on queue with the windows down, and I absolutely know we would decide to rent a vintage Mustang convertible that would be completely unpractical. We would probably end up breaking down in the middle of nowhere, but we would get a hilarious story out of it.
Cassie Fisher
Hometown: Raleigh, NC
Undergraduate institution: Southwest Tennessee Community College and The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Undergraduate major: Management and Society
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: Student Ambassador and Orientation Leader
M.S. in Commerce track: Marketing & Management
Academic interests: Management, HR consulting
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
I chose M.S. in Commerce because it was meant for students who didn’t major in business as undergraduates, and it’s a perfect fit for recent college graduates who don’t have work experience. I knew after these quick 10.5 months, I would be fully equipped and ready to hit the ground running.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
I am looking forward to collaborating in team projects with other students who have different academic backgrounds than me.
What book(s) are you currently reading (not including any that are program assigned)?
Gone Girl, by Gillian Flynn
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy watching sunsets in the mountains, shopping at TJ Maxx, and eating good food.
Robbie Hebert
Hometown: Ocala, FL
Undergraduate institution: University of Georgia
Undergraduate major: Biology
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity, Phi Delta Epsilon Pre-Medical Fraternity, Whatever It Takes Tutoring, UGA Miracle, IM sports, undergraduate research, hospital volunteering
M.S. in Commerce track: Marketing & Management
Academic interests: Medical sales/healthcare
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
When I was in my junior and senior years at UGA, I was thinking about switching career paths, and I was not sure how to do it. I got an email about the M.S. in Commerce Program and thought that it would be the perfect opportunity for me. It was nice that I could find a program where there were other students who did not necessarily have a business background who could all relate to what I was going through.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
While applying to UVA, the thing I was looking forward to the most is the GIE experience. I had applied to similar programs, but this one seemed the most exciting because of the opportunities to go abroad. However, once I started here, I realized that I was most excited about meeting new people and learning how to work together to achieve a common goal.
What are your hobbies?
I love hanging out with friends, going to sports games, and going to concerts.
If you could go on a cross-country road trip with a famous person, living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would go on the trip with Matthew McConaughey because I think he has some of the most interesting life stories I have ever heard. I recently read his book, Greenlight, and was so amazed by everything that he did growing up and as a young individual in his career. It would be interesting to hear what everything was really like during all his adventures.
Chaeyeon Kim
Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
Undergraduate institution: University of Virginia
Undergraduate major: Biomedical Engineering
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: Delta Delta Delta sorority
M.S. in Commerce track: Marketing & Management
Academic interests: Technology and/or healthcare (integrated) consulting
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
I wanted to be part of the M.S. in Commerce Program to learn more about the integration of business and technology, and further develop my skills in solving complex business problems. I knew that this program would provide me with the exposure needed to find ways to make a company better through the implementation of business and process improvements. One broad aspect of McIntire curriculum that really attracted me is how all students are allowed to fully engage in every class. This experience was hard to achieve in my undergraduate years due to a large number of students in classes.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
I really look forward to working on group projects. This will be the opportunity for me to assess and analyze data from a real organization, a chance for me to apply strategy skills learned from classes.
What’s your “walk-up” or hype song?
I start my morning with some EDM to wake myself up. “No Fear No More” by Madeon is my favorite go-to song when I am walking to the Rouss Hall. This song is not too high tempo. It is a perfect song to set you in a mood for class. However, if I am in a mood to really hype myself up, I listen to more techno, pumping, and energizing songs, such as “Nevada” by Vicetone, “Lullaby” by R3HAB, and “Spaceman” by Hardwell. These songs really put me into a mood to shuffle and dance!
Name three places on your bucket list to travel to and why.
- Marina Bay. I want to experience Marina Bay’s mesmerizing night view. The combination of manmade and nature in the gardens is truly impressive.
- Santorini. I heard that sunsets in Santorini are known for being some of the most stunningly beautiful in the world. I really want to spend a month there to enjoy the insanely gorgeous sunset view and the panoramas of the whole city.
- Rome. I love gelato. It is my goal to eat gelato from every gelateria I walk by!
Aiping (Ivy) Li
Hometown: Born and raised in China, now living in Chicago
Undergraduate institution: DePauw University
Undergraduate major: Psychology
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: I was the VP of the International Student Association, an organization that helps to create a warm welcoming environment for international students. I was also part of the Bonner Scholar Program, where I was able to volunteer at different local nonprofit organizations in my undergrad community.
M.S. in Commerce track: Business Analytics
Academic interests: Consulting, business/marketing analyst
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
I have always been interested in the field of business. More specifically, I was hoping to develop hard skills that can be applied in business. So I really think that the M.S. in Commerce Program is able to offer me these skill sets and knowledge. Also, coming from a small liberal art school, I like the interactive classroom environment that fosters learning with professors and other students.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
I am looking forward to learning new things. My courses range from business strategy to financial management and teamwork development. I want to be able to develop various skill sets that allow me to perform better in my future career. Another thing that I am really excited about is meeting new people from different backgrounds, majors, and countries and learning about their ideas on different topics!
What book(s) are you currently reading (not including any that are Program assigned)?
I am currently reading a book called Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice on Love and Life from Dear Sugar. I think this book is both fun and touching to read, as strangers share their life problems and the author replies with wise advice.
Name three places on your bucket list to travel to and why.
- France. I want to see the art and museums of Europe.
- Japan. I had the chance to study Japanese when I was an undergrad and definitely want to explore the food, customs, and culture.
- Key West, FL. I want to drive on the overseas highway, stay on the beach, and explore the southernmost point of the U.S.
Emily Lin
Hometown: Taoyuan, Taiwan
Undergraduate institution: National Chung Cheng University
Undergraduate major: Foreign Languages and Literature
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: Goodwill Ambassador, Student Ambassador of International Visitors, Student Council
M.S. in Commerce track: Business Analytics
Academic interests: Digital marketing/marketing analyst/e-commerce
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
The program allows students to not only combine their undergraduate studies with business knowledge but also have a specific concentration. I think it helps students become more competitive in the business world, as they can dig into an expertise. For those who are interested in international business, the GIE program is also an amazing opportunity for international experiences.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
I look forward to meeting more people and working on projects with teammates, as I prefer working with people rather than doing individual work. This program also has a strong focus on engagement and teamwork.
What are your hobbies?
Horror gaming, rock climbing, roller skating
Name three places on your bucket list to travel to and why.
- Maldives. It is such a beautiful paradise, and we gotta visit before it disappears under the ocean one day!
- Hawaii. I just love the ocean and the vibe so much.
- Iceland. Seeing the Northern Lights will be something to remember for a lifetime.
Cameron Lizza
Hometown: Uniontown, PA
Undergraduate institution: Wake Forest University
Undergraduate major: Economics and Communication; Integrated Communication Strategies concentration
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: Sigma Pi Fraternity, Italian Club, Deacon Camp Pre-Orientation Counselor
M.S. in Commerce track: Business Analytics
Academic interests: Business/data analytics
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
I saw the M.S. in Commerce Program as an opportunity to develop business skills that complement my undergraduate education. The curriculum is set up to prepare students for success after graduation.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
I’m excited to engage with and meet people from different backgrounds. Having the opportunity to work with new people helps bring diverse perspectives to the table and enriches everyone’s experience.
What are your hobbies?
Golfing, watching/playing soccer, trying new restaurants, watching movies (my favorite film is “The Godfather”)
Name three places on your bucket list to travel to and why.
- Australia. I want to scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef.
- England. I want to watch Premier League soccer matches across the country.
- Amsterdam. It’s a beautiful place with a rich history.
Zaeda Meherin
Hometown: Alexandria, VA
Undergraduate institution: University of Virginia
Undergraduate major: Computer Science
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: CS for Social Good, Book Fair, Madison House, Muslim Student Association
M.S. in Commerce track: Marketing & Management
Academic interests: Technology, data analytics, product management
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
I was really drawn to the cohort size. I like that the class sessions are small enough to engage thoughtful discussions, and we can build closer relationships with our peers and professors. Another aspect that stood out to me is the length of the program: It’s only 10 months long. While many of us come in without a background in business, this program prepares us well, and it allows us to transition into the business world quickly.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
I am most excited for the Global Immersion Experience. I like that by traveling to different parts of the world, we can hear from top leaders and witness international business firsthand. I am also interested to see how culture influences the types of businesses and strategies that thrive in other regions outside of the U.S.
What are your hobbies?
I love watching movies and analyzing them. So many movies have social implications that are worth exploring. I love diving deeper into these seemingly superficial realms of entertainment and having long, late-night talks with my friends after watching them.
Name three places on your bucket list to travel to and why.
- Barcelona. I studied Spanish in high school, and my teachers showed us pictures of this city that’s rich in history and culture. I’ve longed to go ever since.
- Sydney. I want travel to the other side of the world and experience the grand continent that is Australia, its nature, wildlife, and diverse roots.
- Dubai. The vast landscape, shiny skyscrapers, natural and manmade sites, and other boundless attractions make Dubai incredibly alluring.
Daulton Roach
Hometown: Sterling, VA
Undergraduate institution: University of Virginia
Undergraduate major: Youth and Social Innovation
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: Housing and Residence Life (Resident Adviser and Senior Resident), Orientation and New Student Programs (Orientation Leader), Phi Sigma Pi, Class Council, Club running
M.S. in Commerce track: Marketing & Management
Academic interests: Public sector consulting/marketing and advertising
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
By the end of my time at UVA, I realized that while I was passionate about the material I was studying, I didn’t see myself in a career in education or in public policy. This was hard to come to terms with because I dedicated so much time to my studies, and it didn’t make sense that I didn’t see myself pursuing these interests for the rest of my life. The M.S. in Commerce Program offered me a pre-experience outlet to further explore what I want in life and in a career. This program simulates what it’s like working in so many different areas involved in business, and it truly gives me confidence that I’ll land where I’m meant to be. I also love how the program combines our past coursework with the new material we’re learning in the program. It’s showing me ways I can incorporate my interests in community development and diversity and inclusion in the corporate world so I can continue to feel like I’m making an impact on individuals and communities that are important to me.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
The things I’m most looking forward to about the M.S. in Commerce Program are my track-specific courses! I have never taken a Marketing class but on a “choice day” for our Communication class, our case study was on the marketing plan for Catching Fire in The Hunger Games trilogy. This excited me because I used to be, and sometimes still am, obsessed with The Hunger Games series (I dressed up as a tribute for Halloween in sixth grade). This was the first time in a long time I felt genuinely excited about what we were discussing in class, and it affirmed the fact that I felt like I was on the right path in my career. The program does such a great job relating class material to businesses that affect our daily lives. Other than that, I’m excited to continue meeting more students in the program who I hope will be friends of mine long into the future!
If you were stranded on a desert island, what three things would you bring and why?
- Sunscreen!!! I’m very into skincare and try not to leave my room without SPF on my face!
- Any device that plays music with Taylor Swift’s 1989 album loaded onto it! This should be obvious, but I’d bring it because Taylor Swift truly put her heart and soul into this album, and it literally may be the best to ever exist!
- My UVA hydro flask! I have to stay hydrated somehow and I also feel emotionally supported by this water bottle.
What are your hobbies?
I really love to run, go to coffee shops in Charlottesville, explore wineries with friends, shop for clothes on impulse, and learn about astrology (I’m a Sagittarius, in case you’re wondering)!
Elizabeth Robertson
Hometown: Montgomery, AL
Undergraduate institution: University of Virginia
Undergraduate major: Kinesiology on a Pre-Physical Therapy Track, Social Entrepreneurship Minor
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: President of my Sorority (Chi Omega), Make-A-Wish Foundation, UVA Sports Medicine Volunteer, Reformed University Fellowship, Club Tennis. I worked in a rehab hospital as an undergraduate and in the restaurant industry, and I taught Sunday school to kids at a local church.
M.S. in Commerce track: Finance
Academic interests: Healthcare/physical therapy
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
I chose to do the MSC program because it is a one-year program in which I will gain skills that I know I will use every day in my future career.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
I am most looking forward to getting to know my professors and working in teams of students to solve real-world business problems. I love how many different backgrounds everyone comes from, yet we can come together and all bring something unique to the table.
What are your hobbies?
I love going on long runs when it’s cool outside in the fall! I also like playing sports, especially tennis and soccer. I also enjoy exploring wineries in Charlottesville, going to the farmers market, and cooking Saturday brunch with my MSC roommates. I love taking my dog, Keno, on walks—he’s an Aussie Doodle!
Name three places on your bucket list to travel to and why.
- Porto, Portugal. I went to Lisbon on a whim when I studied abroad during undergrad and thought that Portugal was the coolest country I’ve ever been to! I would love to go back to visit this city!
- Capetown, South Africa. Capetown just seems so cool. I would love to visit the wineries surrounding Capetown and go on a safari, and also I really want to do the bungee jumping off of the bridge above the Bloukrans River!
- New Zealand. I’ve always wanted to spend some time during what’s our summer break in the United States in New Zealand snow skiing!
Ryann Sheehy
Hometown: Crozet, VA
Undergraduate institution: James Madison University
Undergraduate major: Theater and journalism
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: In undergrad, I was a part of the student-run theater organization, Stratford Players, and served on the executive board for two years. I was also a part of the theater honor fraternity, Alpha Psi Omega. I was a Staff Writer for the student newspaper, The Breeze, and became Co-Editor of the culture section my senior year.
M.S. in Commerce track: Marketing & Management
Academic interests: Brand management, social media strategy, influencer marketing
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
When I started my senior year of undergrad, my interests were changing, and I knew I would need a greater understanding of the world of business before I was able to apply for jobs in my desired field. Since the M.S. in Commerce Program is for people who have no business background and no work experience, it seemed to be the perfect fit. I was also drawn to the program because of the accelerated curriculum and the Global Immersion Experience at the end of the academic year.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
I’m most excited to get to know my classmates and collaborate with them on the many hands-on projects we will tackle during this program. Everyone comes from such different backgrounds, yet we all share a desire to learn about business and help each other grow.
What are your hobbies?
Interior design, crafting, cooking, caring for my houseplants
Name three places on your bucket list to travel to and why.
- Greece, to live my “Mamma Mia” fantasy
- Italy, to eat great food (especially pasta)
- Australia, to say I’ve been “Down Under”
Shiyu Zhao
Hometown: Beijing, China
Undergraduate institution: James Madison University
Undergraduate major: Hospitality Management
Clubs and organizations during undergrad: Chinese Students & Scholars Association, JMU Leaders for International Networking and Knowledge (LINKer)
M.S. in Commerce track: Marketing & Management
Academic interests: Integrated marketing, hospitality
What about the M.S. in Commerce Program appealed to you?
I chose this program not only because of its prestige but also because of its supportive community. Everyone I have met in this program so far is accommodating and friendly. It is effortless to sense that the professors, career center, alumni, and other employees care about your success as yourself. On the other hand, the classes arrangement is intensive but practical, which quickly builds up a business sense about this fast-changing world while digging into your interest track. I believe McIntire designed each step to help me achieve my goal after these 10 months.
What are you looking forward to most in the M.S. in Commerce Program and why?
There are always new challenges to face and new people to talk to in this highly diverse program. I am looking forward to collaborating with my teammates and classmates, meeting more people with the same interests but different backgrounds, and gaining skillsets to prepare me for future careers.
What are your hobbies?
Listening to acoustic guitar songs on Spotify, collecting vintage Mattel Barbie dolls
What’s your “walk-up” or hype song?
“Blank Space/Stand By Me—Live From Spotify London,” by Imagine Dragons
