Satya K. Morar
Area of study: Integrated Master of Healthcare Management
Majors: Economics and evolutionary biology
Minors: Chemistry and biology
Why did you choose this area of study?
I chose the Integrated Master of Healthcare Management and the major in economics to bridge my interest in healthcare, business markets and people relations.
I grew up in a household with parents who are healthcare providers and operate their own practice, so I wanted to take time to understand my upbringing and family business on a technical level. I also wanted to explore careers within the hospital and healthcare industry and understand aspects of care like the patient-hospital-payor relationship to become a more informed provider in the future.
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I will attend Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine starting in July. I look forward to spending time with family and friends back home before medical school this summer and celebrating with my brother, who is also graduating college this May.
Why did you choose CWRU?
I chose CWRU for college, graduate studies, and medical school because of the small, tight-knit community, the resources, the location and the reputation.
As an Ohio native, I grew up hearing about CWRU as the top university in Ohio. After deciding that I wanted to be on the pre-med track, I knew that CWRU would be a good fit because of the hospital connections and opportunities right next door. I knew studying in Weatherhead would be useful for my healthcare and business goals because of the connections that CWRU faculty have with healthcare executives at the surrounding institutions.
What's your favorite memory of CWRU?
Irrespective of location or education, the people here at CWRU are what makes the university the most special.
One of my favorite memories from CWRU happened last semester with my three roommates. I was telling one of them about an amazing conversation I had with a CMO of a local hospital who was in one of my classes at Weatherhead, and he was showing me some of the MRI research he was doing at the Cleveland Clinic. My other roommate came in with his box of specimens he caught for his entomology class, and my fourth roommate asked for my help to practice his history capstone presentation focusing on the historical jazz scene of Cleveland. After this, I remember just thinking about how amazing it is to be on a campus surrounded with such diversity and motivated people.
As a graduating senior, what's one thing you'd like to share with incoming freshmen?
Don't be afraid to be yourself. There can be pressure coming to college to try things that are popular, or be part of certain organizations based on your career, major, friends, etc., that you may not like. You should definitely try new things, but if you aren't enjoying it and getting value out of it, then don't be afraid to do your own thing. There is a community for everyone at college and especially at CWRU.
Jacob Shaw
Area of study: Master of Engineering and Management
Why did you choose this area of study for an advanced degree?
I chose the MEM program as it provided a unique opportunity to expand my skillsets with additional business and people-oriented skills. The small cohort setup was also extremely appealing, allowing me to feel really close with my classmates.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I will be starting a new position as a product safety engineer for CSA Group's energy storage team down in Independence, Ohio.
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
Having the opportunity to conduct an original composition for the CWRU Homecoming performance at the Maltz Performing Arts Center.
What do you love most about Weatherhead?
I love the projects that I've been assigned to have been completed with real industry partners, allowing for my coursework to have an actual impact.
What advice would you give to a student starting a graduate or professional program at Weatherhead?
Get involved with the CWRU community! It's easy to isolate yourself from the rest of CWRU when pursuing a graduate degree, so try to find ways to engage. Check out Weatherhead's programming, attend performances, make friends––embrace the fact that you're back in school again.
Disha Hegde
Area of study: Master of Accountancy
Why did you choose this area of study?
As an individual, I am passionate about accounting and analytics for several reasons. I enjoy the challenge of problem-solving and attention to detail, find fulfillment in making an impact, am excited by technological advancements and innovation, and value the opportunities for career growth and development the field offers. When I find a field that aligns with my interests and values, I develop a strong passion for it and find it fulfilling and rewarding.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be working as a tax consultant at Deloitte.
What's your favorite memory of CWRU?
The cruise night was memorable. That was something I had never experienced before.
What do you love most about Weatherhead?
Diversity and the humbleness of the faculty members.
What advice would you give to a student starting a graduate or professional program at Weatherhead?
Set clear goals: It's important to establish clear goals for your graduate or professional program. Consider what you hope to achieve, both academically and professionally, and develop a plan to achieve those goals.
Take advantage of resources: Weatherhead offers a variety of resources to support students, including academic advising, career services, and networking opportunities. Take advantage of these resources to help you succeed.
Stay organized: Graduate and professional programs can be demanding, and it's essential to stay organized to manage your workload effectively. Consider using tools like calendars, to-do lists, and project management software to keep yourself on track.
Stay engaged: Participate in class discussions, join clubs or organizations, and attend networking events to stay engaged with your program and your peers. This can help you build relationships, learn from others, and stay motivated throughout your program.
Take care of yourself: Balancing the demands of a graduate or professional program can be challenging, so it's important to prioritize self-care. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, exercise, and downtime to avoid burnout and stay healthy.
Overall, starting a graduate or professional program at Weatherhead can be an exciting and challenging time. By setting clear goals, taking advantage of resources, staying organized, staying engaged, and prioritizing self-care, you can set yourself up for success and make the most of your experience.
Lauren Butia
Major: Business management
Minor: Data science
Why did you choose this area of study?
I originally thought I would major in math, but after hearing about think[box], my interest in being an engineer skyrocketed, so I chose to change to biomedical engineering. After a year of taking courses in biomedical engineering, I decided it may be better to minor in it instead.
The classes I took at Weatherhead piqued my interest, and the concepts were being grasped easily by me, so I decided to major in business management with a concentration in entrepreneurship and innovation. But I could not keep up with my biomedical engineering minor no matter my fascination, so I chose data science since I knew the market potential and it would pair well with managing corporations in the future.
What are your plans after graduation?
I have been traveling a lot to Southern California in the past two years, and I plan to start my entrepreneurial ventures there following graduation.
Why did you choose CWRU?
I took the College Board questionnaire to find the best college for you, and CWRU came up as one of the top choices. After that, I kept Case Western Reserve at the back of my mind.
Then, at my college counselor meeting, after telling her what I wanted in college, she gave me a list on which CWRU appeared. I was excited to see that she could also see me there, and coincidentally, the school was going on a college trip; CWRU was one of the six schools they would visit. So I signed up to go, and I finally visited Case Western Reserve.
As soon as I stepped onto the campus, I had a gut reaction that I would love my time here. Then I came again for a tour with my family and loved it again. I came once more during the summer to visit my freshman year roommate, and I had such a wonderful time. The vibrations in the Cleveland/CWRU area aligned with mine, and they have not withered even now as a senior.
What's your favorite memory of CWRU?
The first week spent at CWRU, orientation week, will forever be a treasured experience where I had many beautiful times spent with friends I will keep for life.
As a graduating senior, what's one thing you'd like to share with incoming freshmen?
These years are going to be super transformative, so have an open mind to all the cultures you will be exposed to, the information people will give, and the paths you can choose.
Soumen Kumar Mahanty
Area of study: MBA with a concentration in operations and supply chain management
Why did you choose this area of study for an advanced degree?
Operations and supply chain management are important areas of study that have gained significant importance in recent years, particularly as businesses continue to face increasing pressure to streamline processes, reduce costs and improve efficiencies. The MBA in operations and supply chain focuses on these crucial areas, and helps students develop a deep understanding of the principles, methodologies, and technologies used in operations and supply chain management.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I received a full-time position as a material flow specialist at Foxconn EV System in Lordstown, Ohio.
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
Hanging out with my friends at Jolly Scholar, attending various fun events organized by clubs and helping students through my Operations Club events.
What do you love most about Weatherhead?
The campus life. It's very peaceful and there are so many things to do around campus. I also love how helpful all the staff members are and how student friendly the campus is. The quality of education at Weatherhead School of Management is beyond applause.
What advice would you give to a student starting a graduate or professional program at Weatherhead?
Enjoy campus life, meet new people, learn from every source available, attend club events, focus on what you are passionate about.
Amanda Moser
Majors: Economics and biochemistry
Minors: Chemistry
Why did you choose this area of study?
Economics and biochemistry might seem like a strange combination but, as an aspiring physician, I chose these majors to give me an integrated understanding of healthcare.
Economics is a cornerstone of business and my econ courses gave me critical thinking and analytical skills that help me respond to an ever changing world. In my future career as a physician I hope to be able to combine my scientific knowledge with a better understanding of insurance markets and internal hospital infrastructure to make the best choices for my patients.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be moving to Boston to work for Oliver Wyman in management consulting.
Why did you choose CWRU?
I chose CWRU because the campus is the perfect blend of city life and a campus community.
With our unique positioning in University Circle, students are afforded a tremendous opportunity to interact with the greater Cleveland community through various volunteer opportunities. With four hospitals located practically within walking distance, as a premedical student I knew I could gather the exposure I desired. As a university, CWRU's open door policy gave me the ability to pursue my dual interest in the sciences and economies while offering strong programs for both.
What's your favorite memory of CWRU?
My favorite memory of CWRU is during the massive snowstorm in 2022 where we had almost three days off of school. All of my friends went sled riding and enjoyed the time off together. It was a great classic college memory.
As a graduating senior, what's one thing you'd like to share with incoming freshmen?
Keep an eye out for supplemental learning opportunities through the Veale Center for Entrepreneurship and the School of Medicine. There are so many fantastic speaker series where renowned professionals and physicians offer invaluable advice and discuss their impressive work with students. These opportunities to network and get exposure to various career fields are extremely helpful in paving your future path.
Tarek Cheaib
Area of study: Master of Finance
Why did you choose this area of study for an advanced degree?
While pursuing my undergraduate studies in economics, I realized that financial markets is the field I am most interested in.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I am looking forward to gaining valuable experience at a firmly established company before opening my own startup.
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
My first day at CWRU.
What do you love most about Weatherhead?
I come from Lebanon, a very small country in the Middle East. I have never been part of such a diverse community like the Weatherhead community, which is something I appreciated.
What advice would you give to a student starting a graduate or professional program at Weatherhead?
No matter how much you learn, keep in mind that the learning curve is infinite. There is always much more to learn.
Stephen Andryc
Majors: Economics, mathematics and physics
Minors: Computer science
Why did you choose this area of study?
Ever since I was in middle school, I have found math fascinating and wanted to pursue a career in teaching it. A common feature I observed in great teachers was their ability to provide examples of how a concept describes real life phenomena, so immersing myself in multiple disciplines has prepared me to give unique perspectives on how the language of math relates to the world around us.
What are your plans after graduation?
After I finish my bachelor’s degree this spring, I will be staying at CWRU for a fifth year to earn my master’s degree in math and also use my last season of NCAA eligibility for wrestling.
Beyond that point, I intend to use the academic foundation I have built at CWRU to pursue a PhD and teaching career.
Why did you choose CWRU?
Back when I was applying to colleges, CWRU stood out to me as a place where many bright students hold themselves to high academic standards out of a genuine passion for what they study. In addition to learning from excellent professors throughout my time here, I have developed many friendships through shared interests that I will carry with me for life.
What's your favorite memory of CWRU?
Being a member of the wrestling team has been a consistent highlight throughout my years at CWRU. Beyond simply having the opportunity to compete at a high level in a sport I love, I have developed incredibly close bonds with teammates and coaches that have shaped me into the man I am today. I am excited to compete for one final season and follow the Spartans for years to come!
As a graduating senior, what's one thing you'd like to share with incoming freshmen?
With all the amazing opportunities and people at a place like CWRU, just make the most of each day–in whatever way that means to you–because the time will fly by!
Nikita Tayal
Area of study: MBA with a concentration in FinTech and design and analytics
Why did you choose this area of study for an advanced degree?
In my prior experience as a Software Developer, I developed an innate desire to design and develop ideas and products. This desire led me to the Weatherhead MBA program where I met leaders helping me in my journey to grow professionally.
Experiential learning at Weatherhead equipped with innovation and sustainability departments has enriched the whole learning experience.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I am passionate about technical advancements in the industry. I am focusing on full-time opportunities in the product management and FinTech analytics domain.
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
Our industrial visit to Amazon, Microsoft and 98point6 offices in Seattle. I also got an opportunity to meet Weatherhead alumni from Google, Amazon and Microsoft. This was an exciting moment for me when Professor Youngjin Yoo from xLab, provided an opportunity to attend the Learning and Employment Record (LER) National Strategy Summit in Seattle at the same time. This experience led me to learn how companies research and develop the projects in the initial stage by bringing together all the stakeholders.
What do you love most about Weatherhead?
CWRU has provided me with diverse experiences throughout the program. I got to explore my strengths and interests in technical as well as managerial areas. Working with the Fowler Center for Business as an Agent of World Benefit and xLab departments has substantially added to my professional experience. I cannot thank the school enough for all the diverse opportunities.
What advice would you give to a student starting a graduate or professional program at Weatherhead?
The Weatherhead MBA program provides ample opportunities to grow and develop in your field of interest. The excellent faculty and leaders in the school want you to succeed in your career. It is definitely worth a shot!
Darren Wang
Majors: Accounting
Minors: Banking and finance
Why did you choose this area of study?
I chose accounting for a few reasons. There are only two certainties in life, one of which is taxes. For example, whenever I converse with my father, my father's friends/business partners, or my peers, the topic of tax liability inevitably arises. Taxes will not disappear and many people do not have time to deal with their issue(s), so I know this is a promising career. Accounting also diversifies my family's professions. Finally, I loved taking Professor Blakeway-Phillips' courses, and admired her career and wisdom.
What are your plans after graduation?
My immediate plans include taking a road trip home to California and preparing for the CPA exam. Afterwards, I am starting full-time as a tax associate with PricewaterhouseCoopers in New York City.
Why did you choose CWRU?
Retrospectively, I am thankful that CWRU chose me and I chose CWRU. There were many reasons behind my decision, however, the primary influences were my father's advice, and the small size, private nature and reputation of CWRU. My dad always encouraged my siblings and I to go somewhere we otherwise would not have thought to, and CWRU seemed to be a sound fit with my criteria.
What's your favorite memory of CWRU?
Everything that happened during the fall of my freshman year. In particular, meeting and bonding with virtually all my floormates in Taplin House Four. Four years later, the 30 or so of us still regularly hang out, eat, and watch and play sports together, among other excitements.
As a graduating senior, what's one thing you'd like to share with incoming freshmen?
Spend your time wisely. Work hard, but enjoy your four years and travel as much as possible! For me, traveling is liberating; in the past three and a half years, I have visited 21 states and six countries.
Pooja Damji Fulia
Area of study: Master of Accountancy
Why did you choose this area of study for an advanced degree?
After receiving my bachelor's degree in commerce and working 12 years in accounting, I knew it was time to advance my degree. Studying a master's in accounting with an analytics track, along with receiving my CPA, was the perfect way to do it.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I plan to work in the audit sector with a big four accounting firm for a period of time and then get my PhD in accounting from CWRU. I would love to teach younger generations at CWRU.
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
One of my favorite memories at CWRU will by far be the Diwali celebration. It was the first big festival of India since I was in the U.S.A. and seeing that it's celebrated in such detail was pure joy. Getting Indian sweets was just the cherry on the top.
What do you love most about Weatherhead?
There are so many reasons to love Weatherhead, but if I have to choose one it would be the inclusiveness it gives to international students is phenomenal. There are so many different communities to support the diversity here in Weatherhead.
What advice would you give to a student starting a graduate or professional program at Weatherhead?
Use all the resources provided to you by CWRU. There is so much that if utilized efficiently, there is no way that you can't succeed.
Lexie Tsudis
Major: Business management with a concentration in healthcare management
Minor: Political science
Why did you choose this area of study?
I became fascinated in the healthcare field after taking Professor J.B. Silvers’s Healthcare Finance course.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I plan to attend the Case Western Reserve University School of Law.
Why did you choose CWRU?
Being from Ohio, I loved coming to Cleveland and what University Circle has to offer!
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
Orientation week.
As a graduating senior, what's one thing you'd like to share with incoming freshmen?
Try new things and put yourself out there!
Ali Hashmi
Area of study: Integrated Master of Finance
Major: Finance
Minors: Economics and political science
Why did you choose this area of study?
Growing up, my family moved to different countries for my father's job, and as I adjusted to each new country and culture, I learned a lot about the local history and political landscape. As time went on, I became keenly interested in politics and current events, joining debate clubs in high school and traveling to Qatar for Model United Nations conferences.
Once I graduated and came to CWRU, I realized that any understanding of political organization is inextricable from an understanding of the economy and the role of capital. As a freshman, I took advantage of CWRU's academic flexibility and double majored in political science and finance, with a minor in economics. I relished the opportunity to create my own unique academic path, and felt like I was getting a truly holistic education. By the time I was a sophomore, I had a few finance-related work experiences and wanted to dive deeper into the world of finance.
In order to do so, I applied and was accepted into Weatherhead's Integrated Master of Finance program on the financial big data analytics track.
Now, as I near graduation, I'm extremely grateful that I will be leaving college with a multidisciplinary education, two degrees, and all the tools I need to be successful in my career.
What are your plans after graduation?
After applying and interviewing for countless internships in my junior year, I was fortunate enough to secure a summer investment banking internship at UBS in New York City. After the 10-week program, I earned a return offer from UBS and I will be returning to their offices once I graduate.
Why did you choose CWRU?
I chose CWRU because of three things: academic flexibility, the integrated master’s program and affordability. CWRU, unlike many other schools, offers students the ability to take classes in any of the university's schools, allowing me to earn a political science minor while also studying finance and economics.
Further, no school that I'm aware of offers an integrated master’s program where you can get your bachelor’s and master’s degree within four years. This coupled with CWRU's more than generous financial aid and scholarships makes CWRU one of the most cost-efficient and opportunity-maximizing universities––making my choice of attending CWRU pretty easy.
What's your favorite memory of CWRU?
Freshman year when I would come back from class and the entire dorm floor would be out in the common room to hang out, study and talk.
As a graduating senior, what's one thing you'd like to share with incoming freshmen?
Make the most of your time here at CWRU––seek out every and any opportunity that seems interesting or useful to you, explore different fields of study, and most importantly, enjoy the time you have here because it'll be over before you know it.
Angelika Szakacs
Area of study: Part-Time MBA
Why did you choose this area of study for an advanced degree?
As the manager of academic and research administration for mechanical and aerospace engineering and civil and environmental engineering here in the Case School of Engineering, I started to hire people with advanced degrees, whereas I had none and was training them and supervising them. I also realized a formal management training cannot hurt.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I am looking for a job in higher education as this is all I know. I am originally from Germany and my working career here in the U.S.A. these last 20-plus years have been in higher education. Who knows? I might just look for something internationally––possibly back in Germany.
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
So many… but I would have to say the students! My favorite story is that in mechanical and aerospace engineering we had one male student who always was wearing shorts. No matter the temperature outside. In the spring I saw him come into the department with long pants and I asked him in a worried tone if he was alright. His answer, “No worries, I gave up wearing shorts for lent!”
What do you love most about Weatherhead?
I love the architecture of the building itself. It's something truly different yet functional.
What advice would you give to a student starting a graduate or professional program at Weatherhead?
Commit to it! Just stick with it. Don't give up! And find opportunities to make great connections and friendships. And don't forget to laugh!
Neha Praseed
Majors: Business management and economics
Why did you choose this area of study?
I thoroughly enjoyed running my own small business in high school and wanted to further hone my management skills in college. By the end of my first year, I knew I wanted to focus my attention on the public sector and sought the economics classes and internship opportunities that would prepare me for it. Both of my degrees have helped me develop my leadership style and instill a strong sense of ethics.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’ll be returning to Chicago to join the Federal Reserve Bank’s Supervision and Regulation department. I hope to get a few years of working experience under my belt before I pursue a graduate degree.
Why did you choose CWRU?
It came down to a gut feeling. I sifted through hundreds of reviews and compared dozens of universities on a master spreadsheet, but ultimately, I wanted to study at a small but competitive management school in a brand new city. CWRU and the surrounding Cleveland community fit the description perfectly.
What's your favorite memory of CWRU?
I was thrilled to return to campus and reunite with my friends after 18 months of quarantining at home after the COVID-19 pandemic. We were able to just pick up where we left off. The past few years wouldn’t have been the same without them.
As a graduating senior, what's one thing you'd like to share with incoming freshmen?
Your life isn’t just content for a resume. Devoting your time and attention to the people and activities that make you happy, it’s very possible to balance your personal and professional development.
Gayathri Narayanasamy
Area of study: Master of Accountancy
Why did you choose this area of study for an advanced degree?
I have always had a flair for being an accountant. Successfully completing my Master’s of Accountancy degree at this point would contribute to that dream.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Work for a public accounting firm to get started with my professional career and apply all that I have learnt in theory.
What is your favorite memory at CWRU?
The snow days!
What do you love most about Weatherhead?
Amazing infrastructure and student-friendly professors.
What advice would you give to a student starting a graduate or professional program at Weatherhead?
Use all of the opportunities given to you and learn as much as you can.
Divya Sekar
Area of study: Master of Accountancy
Why did you choose this area of study for an advanced degree?
Accounting is like the backbone of an entity and an evergreen profession which involves human judgements and analysis all the time. Knowing the country’s regulations, industry operations, business, understanding an entity in and out and helping an entity to grow in all means are an accountant’s role. This program has helped me to become a true and real accountant.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Work for a public accounting firm.
What do you love most about Weatherhead?
The Peter B. Lewis Building and the excellent professors.
What advice would you give to a student starting a graduate or professional program at Weatherhead?
Give your best and rest will be taken care of.