Nick Quartapella

Contact Nick

wcg6ev@virginia.edu

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

After spending time in neuroscience research, I knew I wanted to pivot my career out of the lab. I sought to build my business skills while still staying true to my science background. McIntire’s program stood out to me because I could learn about business and how it intersected with biotechnology. But beyond being a great academic fit, I became excited about the emphasis on teamwork and real-world problems that would prepare me well for my career and give me an advantage in the job market.

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

I have enjoyed being able to work in groups throughout our various classes and learn more about what it takes to collaborate well and manage a team. Plus, I’ve met some great people along the way! I also enjoy our weekly speaker series, where we listen to business leaders across various industries discuss their careers. And I’m especially looking forward to traveling abroad through the Global Immersion Experience to learn more about international business.

What are your academic interests?

I always loved my neuroscience courses, where I could understand complex processes about the brain. My love for analytical thinking has drawn me to enjoy all classes where I can understand why something works the way it does. At McIntire, we dive into discussions about why businesses take on certain strategies, or why organizations can be prone to certain biases that may hinder their judgment. I am looking forward to taking my interests to the biotech industry and working with various healthcare organizations.

What clubs and organizations were you involved with during undergrad?

At Rice, I was an affiliate for a leadership development program called the Doerr Institute. I helped other students with leadership training and organized leadership classes for other students. I also volunteered for Pancakes for Parkinson’s and was a flag football head coach.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy running and working out, as well as collecting music records, using my telescope, and watching movies!

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

I would love to go to Athens to see the ruins, Ecuador to visit the Galápagos Islands and see all the cool animals there, and Japan to visit Tokyo and see Mt. Fuji.

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

I love to go to Feast! It’s a super cool sandwich shop and grocer near Downtown.