Why a STEM-Designated UC Davis MBA is a “Game” Changer

“UC Davis proves AI learning can thrive in a culture of connection.”

Blog
August 26, 2025
Daniel Vaziri MBA 27

Daniel Vaziri and an MBA student reviewing documents during orientation, with blue and gold balloons decorating the background. — At MBA Orientation, Daniel Vaziri and his peers built early connections, exchanged ideas and set the foundation for their journey at UC Davis.

Data drives nearly every decision in the $200 billion global gaming industry—from understanding player behavior and market trends to designing monetization strategies.

During my six years at global talent agency WME, where I focused on gaming, I saw firsthand how analytics shape the future of entertainment.

Managing diverse talent personalities, negotiating intricate deals under pressure, and building partnerships sharpened my business instincts—but I knew I needed to deepen my quantitative and leadership skills to take the next step. That’s what led me to pursue my Master of Business Administration at UC Davis.

My decision was driven by three themes: community, a STEM-designated program and career development.

1. Community Comes First

I received a call from Admissions Director Gerard Bañales, simply checking if I had any questions about the application process. This small gesture was indicative of a culture that’s standard for the UC Davis GSM faculty and staff. It’s also a trait that’s expressed by the broader cohort, which I appreciate.

2. Advantages of a STEM-Designated MBA

The gaming landscape is driven by data—user behavior, market trends, monetization strategies, etc. The STEM-designated program ensures that I’ll hone my quantitative and analytical skills to interpret data, which will help me make informed business decisions. This focus gives me the confidence to target roles that will help shape the future of gaming.

3. Career Development for Future Leaders

Alongside academics and camaraderie, the Graduate School of Management’s dedicated career development team transforms the MBA into a career accelerator.

AI Meets Leadership

Orientation cemented my first impressions. We had opportunities to connect with classmates, professors and alumni through networking breakfasts, lunches and alumni panels.

Watch how Daniel Vaziri and classmates embraced teamwork and resilience at the Challenge Sonoma Ropes Course.

AI’s impact across industries was a recurring theme during orientation, underscoring just how forward-looking the UC Davis Graduate School of Management curriculum is.

One moment during orientation that truly resonated with me was Dean Rao Unnava’s talk during a lunch session. He shared personal stories that emphasized altruism, resilience and setting oneself up for success, as well as re-emphasizing the fact that the faculty's care for students is mutual. This instilled confidence that we will be set up for success.

Pushing Limits Together at Challenge Sonoma Ropes Course

My personal mantra has always been, “get comfortable being uncomfortable.” That mindset was tested high in the redwoods in wine country at the Challenge Sonoma Ropes Course, where teamwork, trust, communication and camaraderie took center stage. Seeing classmates push past their limits while cheering each other on built not only trust but also the foundation of lasting friendships.

Looking back, I think orientation achieved exactly what it set out to do. It eased the transition into business school, introduced us to the academic rigor ahead and gave us a running start in building the network that will define our MBA experience.