Blog Author | UC Davis Graduate School of Management

Profile

Anirudh Arora MBA 25

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.

Previous Work Experience

Software engineer, Forcepoint

Previous Education

Master of Business Administration, UC Davis Graduate School of Management
Master of Science in computer science, George Mason University
Bachelor of Engineering in computer engineering, University of Mumbai

Fun Facts

I enjoy travelling so

Deepak Paudel MPAc 25

Profile

Deepak Paudel MPAc 25

I came to the UC Davis MPAc program with a mix of internationalism, journalistic purpose and data-driven rigor. At UC Davis, I have been eager to explore technology through courses like Machine Learning with Python, where I discovered the revolutionary potential of coding to transform the world of audit and analytics.

Previous Education

Bachelor's in economics, UC Davis

Previous Work Experience

Journalist, Foreign News Media

Fun Facts

I've lived in three vastly different parts of the world—Nepal, Qatar and California—and each has added a unique layer to my worldview (and my

Xinxin (Stephanie) Liu MSBA 25

Profile

Xinxin (Stephanie) Liu MSBA 25

I chose UC Davis because it truly sees its students as future leaders. The MSBA program is practical, fast-paced and focused on solving real problems with data. I was drawn to its collaborative culture, strong industry ties and hands-on learning. It’s a supportive environment where you can grow, take risks and enjoy the journey.

Student Leadership and Experience

PR Team Lead, Chinese Undergraduate Student Association at Penn State University
International Student Orientation Leader, Penn State Global

Previous Work Experience

Business Data Analyst Intern, JD.com
Data Analyst Intern

Wenjun Song MSBA 25

Profile

Wenjun Song MSBA 25

I chose the UC Davis MSBA for its real-world focus, strong industry ties, and a curriculum that blends data science, business strategy, and communication. The collaborative cohort and GSM’s reputation for developing well-rounded analytics professionals sealed the deal.

Previous Education

Bachelor's in business management, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology

Previous Work Experience

Business Development Intern, TX Huaihai Youth Energy Center
Data Analyst Intern, Pom Pom

Fun Fact

I could probably build a machine learning model to predict next season’s fashion

Angel Mary Oviya MSBA 25

Profile

Angel Mary Oviya MSBA 25

I chose UC Davis for its rigorous MSBA program that combines data analytics with real-world business applications and strong industry connections, providing hands-on learning and a supportive community.

Student Leadership and Experience

Member, Beta Gamma Sigma
Volunteer, Seed Consulting

Previous Education

Management and Finance, Singapore Management University

Previous Work Experience

AI Strategy Consultant and Project Manager, DecisionFlow
Strategy Executive, Singapore Management University
Digital Strategy Consultant, Beauty Collection
Data Analyst, Cradle Food

Amanda Carter MPAc 25

Profile

Amanda Carter MPAc 25

I chose UC Davis because of the close-knit community. I loved how the MPAc program was small, so all us cohort members would become a family. I knew I would make life-long friends if I chose the MPAc program at UC Davis. Also, I chose UC Davis because I was confident that this program would prepare me for my future as an accountant.

Both of these have proven to be true, as I have made amazing friends, and have acquired knowledge and skills that will hopefully set me up for success in my career.

Student Leadership and Experience

President, MPAc Program

Previous Education

Bachelor's

Kristina Kaminski MM 25

Profile

Kristina Kaminski MM 25

I chose UC Davis for its innovative approach to business education, renowned faculty, and supportive, tight-knit community. Its collaborative environment has allowed me to make invaluable connections that I hope to maintain for years to come.

Student Leadership and Experience

Member, Women in Leadership

Previous Education

B.A. in sociology with a concentration in organizational studies, minor in technology management, UC Davis

Previous Work Experience

Teaching Assistant, UC Davis
Social Media Team Lead, Department of Transportation Services, UC Davis
Bike Office

Carter Delaney MM 25

Profile

Carter Delaney MM 25

I chose UC Davis to continue both my athletic and academic career at a high level. The Master of Management program offers the perfect blend of real-world business preparation and leadership development, all within a supportive and collaborative environment. Being able to compete as a Division 1 athlete while earning a graduate degree made Davis the ideal place to grow on and off the field.

Student Leadership Experience

Member, GSM Finance Association

Previous Education

B.A. in history, UC Davis

Previous Work Experience

Student-Athlete, UC Davis Athletics Department

Fun

Ji Hyun Kim MSBA 24

Profile

Ji Hyun Kim MSBA 24

I selected the UC Davis MSBA program due to its notably rigorous curriculum, which aligns perfectly with my educational aspirations. I am confident that through this program, I will successfully propel my career as a data analyst and reach my professional aspirations.

Current Position

Senior Data Analyst, Bloomberg

Student Leadership and Experience

Graduate Student Analyst, UC Davis Graduate School of Management MSBA
Club Membership: Fine Art Club, Marketing Research Society

Previous Degree

Scandinavian, Business Administration - Hankuk University of Foreign Studies

Fun

Juan Carlos Castro MPAc 25

Profile

Juan Carlos Castro MPAc 25

I chose UC Davis for its supportive faculty, small class sizes, and proximity to my hometown of Yuba City. The beautiful campus, with its greenery and abundant wildlife—watch out for the turkeys, they can get feisty—also influenced my decision. The small-town feel ultimately solidified my choice.

Student Leadership and Experience

Bookkeeper, Associated Students of Management

Previous Education

B. S. in business administration, California State University, Sacramento

Previous Work Experience

Teaching Assistant, UC Davis Graduate School of Management
Construction Worker, Greg

Shaneil Mckenzie-Guyher MPAc 23

Profile

Shaneil Mckenzie-Guyher MPAc 23

From tackling real-world challenges with distinguished professors and collaborating with peers to produce meaningful solutions, this academic expansion is pivotal to remain valuable and avoid stagnation when professional advancement in my career becomes probable.

Current Position

Sr. Financial Analyst, Eli Lilly and Company

Student Leadership and Experience

Teaching Assistant, University of California, Davis

Previous Degree

BBA in Accounting, University of the District of Columbia

Fun Facts

I was a track and field athlete (100M, 200M, Hurdles, and Discuss throw) in high

Sodontuya Nerguidavaa MBA 22

Profile

Sodontuya Nerguidavaa MBA 22

I chose UC Davis for its strong STEM-designated MBA, academic excellence and supportive community. The faculty, career resources and welcoming environment made it the perfect place to achieve my goals.

Current Position

Vice President, Relationship Manager, BNY

Previous Work Experience

COO, Co-Founder, Institute of Continuing Education and Research, Mongolia
Reporter, Bloomberg, Mongolia
Central Bank of Mongolia

Previous Education

Bachelor of Business Administration, University of Finance and Economics, Mongolia

Fun Facts

I published three translated autobiographies

Mac Clemmens MBA 07

Profile

Mac Clemmens MBA 07

The small class sizes and strong emphasis on impact-driven leadership made UC Davis the perfect place to grow as an entrepreneur and problem-solver.

Current Position

Cofounder/CEO, Streamline Software, Inc.

Previous Work Experience

Founder/CEO, Digital Deployment

Previous Education

B.S. in computer science, California State University, Monterey Bay

Fun Facts

I was honored with the Vision Award from Disability Rights California in 2018 for my work in making websites more accessible to people with disabilities.
I once completed an Ironman triathlon—because apparently

Alexis Rangel MM 25

Profile

Alexis Rangel MM 25

I chose UC Davis for its commitment to student success and innovation. Its supportive community and mentorship empowered me to grow beyond expectations.

Student Leadership Experience

Director of Communications, Associated Students of Management
Master of Management Board Representative, GSMAA
Member, Women in Leadership

Previous Education

B.A. in communication, minor in technology management, UC Davis
A.A. in communication studies, Modesto Junior College

Previous Work Experience

Social Media Marketing and Communications Manager, Davis Community Meals and Housing
Manager on

Michael Hui MM 25

Profile

Michael Hui MM 25

I earned my undergraduate degree at UC Davis, where I spent five years embracing student life and exploring diverse opportunities. I am also honored to be part of the inaugural Master of Management cohort.

Student Leadership

Director of Student Welfare, Associated Students of Management Club
Ministry Team Member, Navigators at UC Davis
Shift Lead Volunteer, ASUCD Pantry

Previous Education

B.S. in managerial economics and B.A. in communication, minor in technology management, UC Davis

Previous Work Experience

Sacramento Valley College Corps Student Fellow, Yolo Food Bank

Tushar Yadav MSBA 25

Profile

Tushar Yadav MSBA 25

I chose UC Davis MSBA for its San Francisco location, strong industry ties, and hands-on year-long practicum, allowing me to apply classroom knowledge to real-world business challenges and develop valuable skills.

Previous Education

Bachelor's of Technology in electronics and telecommunications, Symbiosis International University

Previous Work Experience

Consultant, Jio Cinema, Viacom Media

Fun Facts

I am a fashion designer and some of my designs have graced Bollywood events.
During my internship training at Maruti Suzuki, I helped assemble a car from scratch, and it’s

Sage Taylor MPAc 25

Profile

Sage Taylor MPAc 25

I chose UC Davis for its welcoming small-town atmosphere, outstanding faculty and unique charm—especially with cows on campus and Cheeto the physics cat! My undergraduate experience here was incredibly rewarding, and I am excited to continue my graduate journey at a place that has already made such a positive impact on me.

Student Leadership and Experience

Co-Site Coordinator, Students in VITA
Member, Classical Studies Association

Previous Education

Bachelor of Science, biological sciences, UC Davis

Previous Work Experience

Accounting Intern, D.H. Scott and Company

F

Timothy O'Brien MBA 25

Profile

Timothy O'Brien MBA 25

I chose UC Davis for its STEM-designated MBA program, which aligns with my passion for innovation, sustainability, and leadership. Its collaborative environment, proximity to the Bay Area, and strong alumni network are key.

Student Leadership and Experience

Student Ambassador, UC Davis Bay Area Part-Time MBA

Previous Education

Bachelor's in biology, Point Loma Nazarene University

Previous Work Experience

Operations Supervisor, DHL Supply Chain

Fun Facts

I spent several months after undergrad volunteering with an NGO in rural Kenya, where I focused on community

Myrna Robles Couch MBA 25

Profile

Myrna Robles Couch MBA 25

UC Davis GSM offers flexibility, diverse connections, and world-class professors, empowering me as a mom, entrepreneur, and professional to advance my career while enjoying collaborative and engaging class projects.

Student Leadership and Experience

President, OMBA Student Association (2024 - 2025)
Spring Cohort Representative, OMBA Student Association (2023 - Present)
OMBA Student Ambassador (Spring 2023 - Present)

Previous Education

B.A. in Latin American history and Spanish, San Francisco State University

Previous Work Experience

Founder, The STEM Studio
Vineyard

Marianna de Lima Freitas MBA 26

Profile

Marianna de Lima Freitas MBA 26

I chose UC Davis for its strategic location near the Bay Area, which offers excellent access to industry connections and career opportunities. The program’s small cohort size was also a key factor, as it fosters a close-knit community and enables meaningful relationships with professors, fellow students and alumni.

These elements together create an ideal environment for both academic growth and professional networking.

Student Leadership and Experience

Director of the GSM Marketing and Product Management Club
Director of career services, Associated Students of Management
Full-Time MBA