Meet Our 2025 Commencement Student Speakers

Anirudh Arora, Sacramento Part-Time MBA

Why UC Davis?

When I was exploring MBA programs, I wanted more than rankings—I wanted a place to grow, and UC Davis delivered.

The Part-Time MBA let me pursue rigorous academics while working full-time, but it was the collaborative, purpose-driven culture that truly stood out. I felt like part of a community, not just a student—and that made all the difference.

What were three highlights from your UC Davis experience?

1. Leading a Cross-Functional Capstone Project

One of the most impactful experiences was leading our Integrated Management Project. Working with a real-world client, managing a diverse team, and applying everything we’d learned over the past two years was both challenging and rewarding. It was a perfect blend of strategy, teamwork, and execution and it really brought the MBA to life.

2. Lifelong Friendships

The core value of community building  was key because balancing a full-time job and school wasn’t easy especially while raising a newborn at home. But those late-night Zoom sessions with teammates turned into some of my most meaningful memories. We supported each other, shared resources, laughed through the chaos, and ultimately became more than classmates we became friends for life.  

3. Cross Registration

One of the unique advantages of the UC Davis MBA program was the flexibility to cross-register across all three GSM campuses Sacramento, San Ramon, and Davis. This structure allowed me to tailor my learning experience around both my professional schedule and personal interests.

I also had the opportunity to take electives from other programs, such as the MSBA, which significantly broadened my perspective and deepened my technical skill set. This cross-campus, cross-program access expanded the variety of courses available and empowered me to design a curriculum that truly aligned with my career goals.

Angel Mary Oviya, MSBA

Hometown: Singapore

Why UC Davis?

UC Davis felt like more than just a program, it felt like a place to become. I wanted a school that valued both analytical rigor and human connection, and UC Davis delivered on both. The collaborative culture, the focus on impact, and the chance to grow alongside passionate, driven people made it the perfect fit.

What were three highlights from your UC Davis experience?

1. Thinking in Both Numbers and Narratives

From regression models to strategy decks, UC Davis showed me that data and storytelling aren’t separate — they’re stronger together.

2. Finding my People

In group projects, hallway chats, and spontaneous coffee runs, I met some of the smartest, kindest, and most inspiring minds.

3. Rediscovering Confidence in Uncertainty

Whether it was debugging a model or pitching an idea, UC Davis gave me the space to stumble, learn, and grow into someone who’s not afraid of the unknown.

Where are you heading next? 

I’m heading into a career at the intersection of strategy and analytics, where creativity meets complexity, and where data-driven decisions can shape real-world outcomes.

With roots across three continents and a passion for understanding people and systems, I’m excited to help organizations navigate uncertainty, tell better stories with data, and make smarter, more human-centered choices. Wherever I land next, one thing is certain: I’m bringing curiosity, heart, and a whole lot of pivot tables.

Margot Charkow-Ross, Online MBA

Hometown: Seattle, WA

Why UC Davis?

A friend of mine chose UC Davis, and when I looked into the program, I quickly understood why. I already knew UC Davis had a strong reputation within the GSM for leadership and diversity, and it became clear that my friend had impeccable taste. The program aligned perfectly with my goals.

What were three highlights from your UC Davis experience?

1. Connecting with incredible people from diverse backgrounds through classes and networking events.

2. Growing from someone with limited business experience into someone with confidence, tools, and a deeper understanding of both micro and macro-level business concepts.

3. Collaborating across disciplines and learning how to bridge my background in mental health with business strategy to make a broader impact.

Where are you heading next?

I’m continuing my passion for supporting professionals and organizations in prioritizing health and wellness. When wellness is front and center, people thrive, both in the workplace and in life.

I’ll be expanding my private practice, Go2Therapy to include consultation services for companies looking to educate their teams and build a sustainable wellness mentality. I will also be continuing to work as a behavioral health and wellness consultant with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Office of Employee Wellness.