Lauren Waniel

Contact Lauren

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

My interest in the M.S. in Commerce Program stems from an eagerness to explore the business world holistically. In undergrad, I initially thought I wanted to attend med school, and my demanding schedule with school and soccer did not allow me to fit in any business courses. By my senior year, I really wished I had explored business at Richmond and wanted to find a way to do so after graduation. Designed specifically for recent liberal arts graduates, the M.S. in Commerce Program is exactly what I was looking for.

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

What I’ve enjoyed most so far in the M.S. in Commerce Program is the incredible community of people. From day one, I’ve felt welcomed into an environment that is both supportive and inclusive. My classmates come from diverse backgrounds and experiences, which has enriched my learning experience beyond the classroom. As for what I’m looking forward to, I am very excited about the Global Immersion Experience. Learning about business in the classroom is one thing, but it is an entirely different experience to immerse oneself in other cultures to learn about their business models.

What are your academic interests?

I’m here because I’m trying to figure it out! I’m really hoping the classes will help me discover what I’m passionate about and determine what I want to do in the future.

What clubs and organizations were you involved with during undergrad?

During undergrad, I played Division I soccer at the University of Richmond, which took up a significant portion of my time. This left me with limited opportunities for other extracurricular activities. However, I was able to branch out a bit and also participated in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and the Omicron Delta Kappa leadership honor society.

What are your hobbies?

I have a wide variety of hobbies! I love to spend time outdoors hiking, running, and just being in nature. I also really enjoy drawing, scrapbooking, and reading. Fashion’s a big one for me too; I enjoy mixing and matching outfits and finding unique pieces while thrifting. Sports and lifting keep me active and motivated, and rock climbing has become a recent favorite, as I’ve had more time to explore new activities since I no longer play competitive soccer. I’m also really into music, especially live music. Lastly, I love to travel. I’m always eager to explore new places and experience different cultures.

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

1. Swiss Alps to snowboard and enjoy the scenery
2. Iceland for the hot springs and active volcanoes
3. Philippines for the food and beautiful islands with stunning water and greenery

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

I’m still new to Charlottesville, so I haven’t had the chance to explore too many places yet. However, my favorite experience so far has been hiking Humpback Rocks. The view from the top, especially at sunset, is absolutely stunning. It’s quickly become a highlight of my time here!