Dean's Team
Dean's Team
The Dean's Team at the College of Business (CoB) is a group of undergraduate students who help answer questions that prospective students might have. Members of the Dean's Team go on trips to high schools and participate in activities on campus to share their experiences and words of wisdom with other Future Zips!
Aaron Murphy
Hometown: Bolivar, Ohio
High School: Tuscarawas Valley High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Information Systems and Data Analytics
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2029
Professional/Student Organizations:
President of the Society for Information Systems, Technology and Analytics (SISTA), Campus Focus, Treasurer of the Economics and Data Analytics Club (EDAC), Investment Club
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I was invited to "An Evening with Business" at The University of Akron my senior year of high school and that event gave me the opportunity to learn what seperates the UA College of Business from other schools. I was thrilled to hear of UA's incredible connections with successful and growing businesses in the area. With the professional development classes, career and networking events, and study abroad opportunities, I knew the CoB is where I would succeed.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose to double major in Information Systems and Data Analytics because I am passionate about using technology to help people and businesses improve and become more efficient. I debated majoring in Computer Science, but I wanted the freedom to build relationships and create connections while excelling with code and data.
What is your favorite part of UA?
By far, my favorite part of UA is the abundancy of great student organizations and clubs. I have built so many lasting friendships just from my involvement in these clubs, and I am so grateful for The University of Akron supporting these organizations.
Abbie Myers
Hometown: West Chester, OH
High School: Lakota West High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Leadership and Human Resource Management
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2029
Professional/Student Organizations:
President of the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM), Member of the College of Business Dean's Team
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I knew that the College of Business would provide strong opportunities for growth in my field. As well as provide me with real world experience and a number of opportunities that would help me to develop not only as a person but as a young professional.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose HR because I feel that this world needs more empathy and understanding. People shouldn't just be seen as employees and numbers; they should be seen as real people with there own experiences, needs, and goals. I want to connect with people and get to know them on a personal and proffesional level so I can better understand and support them. My goal is to help create a workplace where people feel safe, comfortable, valued and excited to work.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part of UA is the campus itself. Although we are in a city, there is so much beauty on campus, from the architecture to the green spaces and the trees all around you. No matter what time of year it is, campus has a spark to it. The comminuty that is here and the people who use these spaces make me truly feel at home.
Addie Kennedy
Hometown: Conneaut, OH
High School: Conneaut High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Marketing and Sales Management (Major), Data Analytics (Minor), Sport Business (Certificate)
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2029
Professional/Student Organizations:
Women in Business, Sport Analytics and Business Association, Fisher Sales Society, Residence Hall Program Board (RHPB), WISE Cleveland (Women in Sports and Events)
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose UA College of Business because of all the opportunities that they offer me! I'm so happy with my decision.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I really wanted a field of business that allowed me to be more creative and had lots of variety with where I could work and what I could do.
What is your favorite part of UA?
Zippy!!! Also, all of the people here! Everyone is so nice and welcoming!
Adrianna Califano
Hometown: Bellmore, New York
High School: John F. Kennedy High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Accounting (Major), Financial Management (Major), Economics (Minor)
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2028
Professional/Student Organizations:
Goalie on the Women's Lacrosse team, Student Athlete Advocacy Committee (Team Representative and Vice President), William Honors College
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose the UA College of Business for the opportunities available; students can grow through the connections, workshops, and mentorships provided. While searching for schools, I found that the UA College of Business offers strong support and resources to help students prosper in any field, get ahead of the competition, and create great experiences. The faculty thoroughly prepares students to succeed on whichever path they choose.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
Surrounded by many accountants in my family, I knew I wanted to follow in their successful footsteps. I pursued that major alongside a second major in financial management and a minor in economics because I wanted to keep building my resume and become as marketable as possible in the business world.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part about UA is the community. The AK Rowdies supporting teams on campus, contests hosted by ZAB, and so much more really bring students out and engage them in campus life. I think that is something very special here; we are a tight-knit community and support one another, which is not necessarily the case elsewhere.
Ali Shalash
Hometown: Canfield, Ohio
High School: Canfield High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Economics Major, Pre-Law Minor
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2027
Professional/Student Organizations:
Beta Gamma Sigma: President, Resident Assistant, Ambassadors, AK-Rowdies - Social Media Chair, HACC - Vice President, Women's Basketball Practice Player, Athletics Photographer
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
We have an amazing group of knowledgeable and supportive professors who want to see their students succeed. After meeting some of them, my decision was easy.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose Economics because it is a versatile degree within the Business field. It also translates well to law, and I plan on attending law school next year.
What is your favorite part of UA?
I enjoy the people, the opportunities provided, and the many programs hosted.
Amelia Lutz
Hometown: Seville, Ohio
High School: Wadsworth High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Business Adminstration Major and Marketing Minor
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2028
Professional/Student Organizations:
Dean's Team
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose the UA College of Business because it was close to home, affordable, and had a strong reputation for providing a comprehensive, engaging, and career-focused program. I have found this to be true, as UA is continually reminding me that they are dedicated to our success, not only academically but also personally and professionally. They provide us with so many opportunities to grow and have fun!
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose business administration as my major because it will allow me to have an understanding of the many aspects of business, rather than narrowing it down to just one. This will allow me to pursue a variety of positions in the business realm, specifically entrepreneurship. Additionally, I chose a marketing minor because marketing is an important part of every business and is essential in our highly visual and digital world.
What is your favorite part of UA?
One of my favorite parts of UA is our Student Union. It's a perfect place to meet up with friends from all majors, grab a bite to eat, purchase some UA merch, or play a few games of bowling at the Roo Lounge.
Brianca Weygandt
Hometown: North Lawrence, OH
High School: Tuslaw High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Sport Analytics
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2028
Professional/Student Organizations:
SABA, CoB Deans Team
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
The amount of opportunities to help in the sports field, also the staff and faculty are very helpful to improve professional development to allow you to get to the next step in your career.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
At first, when coming to University of Akron I was majoring in Applied Mathematics. I made the switch to Sport Analytics because I have always had a love for sports and mathematics. I love how there is critical thinking involved as well, because I enjoy finding a solution.
What is your favorite part of UA?
I love how UA is 30 minutes away from home so it is a great commute time for me as a commuter. Thats not the only reason though there is so many opportunities from faculty, but also other students pushing each other. The new slogan " Say Yes" has pushed me in so many ways, it has encouraged me to get outside of my comfort zone, and push me to my best potential.
Bryce Gregorich
Hometown: Navarre
High School: Fairless
Major(s) and minor(s): Political Science, Intelligence, and National Security Studies & Economics, minor in Arabic Language & Culture
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2028
Professional/Student Organizations:
Economics and Data Analytics Club, Powerlifting Club, Elevate, Sigma Lambda, RHPB Executive Board
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
Because I thought that it offered a good opportunity to compliment my career goals and I like the professors.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose national security because I want to work in diplomacy, and I chose economics as my second major because I thought that even though I don't plan to work directly with economics that it helped me stick out from other students and help me develop more skills that can be used in an office setting.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part of UA is the people that I have met, I have made a lot of friends among students and gotten to know some of my professors well
Brynna Chantry
Hometown: Solon, Ohio
High School: Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy (CVCA)
Major(s) and minor(s): Marketing (Major)
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2029
Professional/Student Organizations:
Alpha Gamma Delta - Vice President of Event Planning, Delight Ministries- Vice President & Social Media Director
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
Throughout high school, I had the opportunity to be introduced to the UA College of Business multiple times. Through connecting with students, professors, and department chairs, I quickly saw that being part of the College of Business was about more than just pursuing a degree. It was about being part of a community that values relationships, personal and professional growth, and getting involved beyond the classroom. Ultimately, I chose the College of Business because I wanted to be part of a community where I could build meaningful connections, continue growing, and gain experiences that would prepare me for my future career.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose marketing because I've always loved the idea of storytelling. Every person and every company has a story, and marketing gives me the opportunity to learn those stories and creatively communicate what makes a company valuable and unique to the world. More than anything, I'm excited by the idea of being able to take something that already has meaning and find a way to share it with others. Marketing also gives me the flexibility to explore different areas of business while developing skills that I hope to use throughout my career and, eventually, in owning my own business.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part of UA is the small-college aspect. Akron may be a smaller university, but that doesn't mean it has fewer opportunities. Being part of a smaller community gives you the chance to get involved, build genuine relationships with peers and professors, and make connections that can truly make a difference. I've really valued being able to know the people around me while still having so many opportunities to grow, get involved, and step outside of my comfort zone.
Ciel Wise
Hometown: Findlay, Ohio
High School: Pandora-Gilboa High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Marketing and Sport Business (Majors) and Sales (Certificate)
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2029
Professional/Student Organizations:
Asian Students in Akron (President), Delta Sigma Pi (Senior Vice President), Sport Analytics and Business Association (Social Media Board), University Ambassadors, Undergraduate Student Government, Williams Honors College Deans Team, Honors Student Advisory Council, Leadership Designation Program, ZTV, Sigma Lambda Honorary
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose the College of Business because of the incredible opportunities and connections that come with it. There are so many ways for students to set themselves apart and build a brand for themselves. The professors and department heads genuinely care and will go out of their way to support every student and provide both the professional and personal experiences that help us grow. From the moment I chose business, the faculty and students made it a priority to connect with me and open the door to amazing opportunities. It's a community that truly invests in you.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose marketing because I've always been big on building connections, and I am intrigued by how businesses and brands position themselves to the world. I love that marketing lets me be both creative and analytical as it challenges me to think in new ways while still focusing on data and strategy. After coming to Akron and meeting so many faculty and students, I decided to add sport business as a second major. I've always loved sports, and I became really curious about the business and technical side of what makes a team successful. Combining marketing and sport business felt like the perfect fit for my interests, my personality, and the kind of career I want to build.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part of UA has to be the people, the student organizations, and all the activities on campus. My friends here have made Akron feel like home, and the Akron community is always supportive. The various student organizations give an opportunity to enjoy their passions and find a community. The activities the university hosts always bring fun and excitement, even on stressful days!
Erin Keener
Hometown: Madison
High School: Madison High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Accounting
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2027
Professional/Student Organizations:
Delta Sigma Pi Business Fraternity & UA Waterski Club
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose the University of Akron's College of Business because of the environment that the staff and students have created. I remember coming to campus for the first time and being blown away by the number of opportunities available to students. From fulfilling on-campus jobs and engaging career services events to the endless business related clubs and organizations, there are countless ways for students to grow both personally and professionally. It takes a dedicated team of staff and students to create and support all of these opportunities, and I knew that the UA College of Business was a team I wanted to be a part of.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
Choosing my major was an easy decision, especially after hearing from the staff in the accounting department about the many opportunities available within the field. When I tell people I am an accounting major, I am often asked, Will you choose tax or audit? While both are great career paths, there is so much more to an accounting degree and so many different opportunities available. You could become a future CFO, work as a forensic accountant, work for the IRS, become a financial analyst, or even pursue a career in financial compliance. After three years at the University of Akron, I have gained new skills while refining the ones I already had. I have no doubt that by combining my skills with the accounting knowledge I have gained at Akron, I will have endless opportunities to build a successful career.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part of the University of Akron is the experience as a whole. Over my three years here, I have had the opportunity to experience so much more than just life inside the classroom. I have participated in Greek life, worked on campus, attended career fairs, celebrated Homecoming weekends, shown my school spirit at athletic events, participated in community service, studied abroad, and explored the surrounding community. Each of these experiences has helped shape my college journey and given me memories and connections that I will carry with me long after graduation. There is always something happening on campus, whether it is focused on professional development, community involvement, school spirit, or simply connecting with other students.
Gabe Dymond
Hometown: Norwalk
High School: Edison High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Accounting, Finance
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2028
Professional/Student Organizations:
Accounting Association, Roocatholic, Lambda Chi Alpha
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose the UA COB because I went on a tour of Akron in high school and loved the staff. Everyone was super friendly and cared to learn more about me.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose my major because I feel that I am good with numbers and pattern recognition.
What is your favorite part of UA?
The student life. UA does a great job with providing things to do on campus to keep us students happy!
Gavin O'Keefe
Hometown: Twinsburg, Ohio
High School: Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy
Major(s) and minor(s): Financial Management (Major), Accounting (Major)
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2029
Professional/Student Organizations:
Delta Sigma Pi, Phi Kappa Tau, UA Latinos, William Honors College, Student Employment
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose the UA College of Business because of the opportunities it gives students to get involved and gain real-world experience. I also liked how supportive and accessible the professors and staff were. Having the resources of a large university while still maintaining smaller class sizes and building strong relationships with professors was really important to me.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose Financial Management and Accounting because I've always been interested in business and wanted to understand both the financial and accounting sides of how companies operate. Accounting is often considered the language of business, and learning it will only help me better understand finance. Having a strong background in both also gives me the flexibility to pursue either an accounting or finance career in the future.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part of UA is the people and how easy it is to get involved. Coming into college, I didn't expect to be as involved as I am now, but I've had so many opportunities to meet new people, take on leadership roles, and build relationships with professors and staff. Being involved on campus has really made Akron feel like home to me.
Jacob Hough
Hometown: Clinton, OH
High School: Highpoint Christian Academy (Homeschool Hybrid)
Major(s) and minor(s): Business Administration, Minor TBD
Projected Graduation Semester: 2028-2029
Professional/Student Organizations:
Hiking And Outdoors, NEOSVF, Leadership Designation Program(third semester)
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
The resources available, good cost to benefit ratio, and exceptional staff.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I love being broad in my knowledge and having the availability for a flexible career.
What is your favorite part of UA?
The staff and location. Staff always seem to have your best interest in mind, and you are right in the middle of all of Akrons best features.
Jaylah Lacewell
Hometown: Twinsburg Ohio
High School: Twinsburg High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Marketing and Sales Management with a certificate in Professional Social Media
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2028
Professional/Student Organizations:
Jimmy Malone Scholar, Summer Leadership Academy Fellow (Professional Development Center), Williams Honors College Student Assistant
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose UA because of all of the connections and opportunities they had to offer me immediately coming in. I knew from the moment I left my visit on Scholars Day my Senior year that The environment I had come into with the faculty and students of The Marketing Department was where I was meant to be. I am so happy that I not only chose UA Marketing but that it also chose me back.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I love that marketing allows me to be creative professionally and sway someone to grown an interest and engage with a product. With sales it allows me to not only Learn to sell a product but also myself as a candidate as I look for internships and career opportunities.
What is your favorite part of UA?
I love the community that UA offers to students through involvement, events, and activities that bring us all together. Being apart of a close knit campus allows me to know so many of my peers and fellow students personally and it truly has shaped my experience thus far.
Katrina Tabler
Hometown: Akron, Ohio
High School: Tallmadge High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Marketing and Sales Management
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2029
Professional/Student Organizations:
American Marketing Association, Delta Sigma Pi - Theta Kappa, Fisher Sales Society, African American Business Association
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose the UA College of Business because the college's number one priority is preparing students for a career in business. The amount of support I get from faculty members is immeasurable and all the students are focused on building each other up. I have learned so much outside of the typical college coursework and it makes me proud to be a Zip!
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose marketing and sales management because both industries fit my personal strengths. I love marketing because it gives me an outlet to be creative and sales is a way for me to connect with different people and explore new ideas. A lot of the courses students need to take for a marketing or sales degree is the same so the College of Business makes it really easy for students like me to double major.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part of UA is meeting up with my friends between classes. The business core buildings are right next to each other so I usually walk with a couple of friends to class and we use that time to catch up before getting lunch or going to student org meetings together. It's really easy to make friends because everyone is so welcoming and I literally can't walk into a room without running into someone I care about!
Keegan Haessig
Hometown: Avon, Ohio
High School: Avon High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Marketing and Sales Management
Projected Graduation Semester: Fall 2026
Professional/Student Organizations:
Fisher Sales Society, Taylor Institute and Marketing social media, Marketing Student Assistant
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose the College of Business because of the opportunities and experiences provided to students. There are endless amounts of resources for the CoB students to use, such as career services, guest speakers, network connections, and many more. Along with that, there is no better faculty/staff than the ones at our CoB. They all want the best for you and will do their best to make you a successful student and professional.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose Marketing and Sales because I love building relationships with people and my people skills have always been one of my better attributes. I felt that those majors would be an industry I would thrive in. I also did not want to sit at a desk and do the same thing every day; I want to go travel, meet new people, and experience new things.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part of The University of Akron has to be the people around you. I came here only knowing my roommate and now that I am in my final year, I can happily say I've made so many great friends, and some that will be around for the rest of my life. Along with that, the faculty and staff here are just as incredible. They are all extremely good at what they do and help lead students on the right path. I love to say that The University of Akron is one of the few colleges that view their students as more than just a dollar sign.
Lauren Joyce
Hometown: Hudson, OH
High School: Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy
Major(s) and minor(s): Marketing Major
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2030
Professional/Student Organizations:
TBD
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
After visiting and having the opportunity to meet with leadership and faculty, I was impressed with the programs and opportunities made available to UA business students. The thought and care that has been poured into the program by the school and staff is evident, and I am excited to be a part of the team and start my journey in the Fall.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I have been working on a candle company for several years now. That experience has been enlightening for me to see how powerful brand awareness and engagement has become for every business and organization. It all stems from identifying and creating strong and positive connections. I am excited to broaden my horizons in the field and learn all that I can!
What is your favorite part of UA?
My experience with UA so far has been amazing! I can see genuine passion and interest in leadership, faculty, students, and alumni. I am thrilled to be a part of it and hope to serve as an inspiration to future Zips!
Leif Fletcher
Hometown: Akron
High School: APS Online
Major(s) and minor(s): Sales and Marketing
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2027
Professional/Student Organizations:
Delta Sigma Pi, Fisher Sales Society, American Marketing Association
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
Having lived in Akron my entire life, I was already familiar with the University of Akron's strong reputation, particularly within the business community. My decision to join the College of Business was solidified after attending the Dean's Dinner event, where I had the opportunity to connect with the faculty and tour the Fisher Sales Institute. The experience left a lasting impression, and I knew from that moment that this was where I wanted to be. In addition to the welcoming community and outstanding academic offerings, the University of Akron provided excellent financial aid. I'm proud to attend a university that delivers a world-class business education while remaining affordable.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I'm a high-energy, enthusiastic person who's always enjoyed connecting with others. Persuasion and communication have come naturally to me in conversations with friends and family, so choosing a major in sales and marketing felt like the right fit. I believe the College of Business will help me take those strengths and turn them into professional skills I can use to build a successful career. I'm excited to keep learning, growing, and challenging myself in a field where energy and communication really make a difference.
What is your favorite part of UA?
The community here in the College of Business is unlike any other. UA provides so many opportunities for students, and what stands out is how accessible they are. You don't have to jump through hoops or face a complicated application process just to get involved in clubs or take on leadership roles. If you're eager to step up, there's always a chance. The faculty are another standout. They genuinely care about their students and are dedicated to seeing everyone succeed. I wouldn't be where I am today without the support and advocacy of so many professors who've helped me behind the scenes and pushed me to do my best. The sense of community and dedication from the faculty is something I truly appreciate at UA.
Mario Milos
Hometown: Broadview Heights
High School: Brecksville Broadview Heights High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Accounting, Finance
Projected Graduation Semester: Fall 2026
Professional/Student Organizations:
Emerging leaders, Hall Government, Investment Club, Investment Banking Club, RooCatholic, Knights of Columbus
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
It felt like the right fit for me and getting involved in clubs and being intentional with my course work affirmed that.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
Stability and I enjoyed my accounting classes
What is your favorite part of UA?
The professors
Mya Schrecengost
Hometown: Buffalo, NY
High School: Eden High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Sport Analytics (Major), Applied Statistics (Minor)
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2027
Professional/Student Organizations:
Sport Analytics and Business Association (Vice President), CHAARG (President), University Ambassador, Women in Business, Honors College Dean's Team, Crumbl Critics
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
The opportunities in Sports and professional development are like no other at UA College of Business. I have been able to travel internationally, land my dream internship with the Cleveland Cavaliers, and have been supported academically and financially through it all!
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I've always been drawn to the analytical aspects of sports, so discovering that Akron offered a major dedicated to this passion was enticing. I believe that the addition of this program represents a significant step forward for the University, and I'm confident it will attract many students who share my enthusiasm. For me, it's the ideal pathway to my dream career.
What is your favorite part of UA?
The opportunities and the people. I can easily say my friends have become my family and this city is a place I call home. The experiences I have gotten have truly changed my life and I have never been happier and more fulfilled than I am here at The University of Akron.
Nathan Schafer
Hometown: Akron, Ohio
High School: Lake High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Sport Business (Major); Marketing (Minor)
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2027
Professional/Student Organizations:
Sport Analytics and Business Association (SABA) - President, AK-ROWDIES - Director of Event Planning for Tabling, Beta Gamma Sigma, Williams Honors College, and The College of Business Dean's Team
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose the College of Business because of the Sport Business program it offers. Before hearing about this program, I had no clue such program existed. I met friendly and caring faculty who sold me on the program and I am so glad I chose it. The people I've met, the connections I've made, and the experiences I've been able to have are all because of the College of Business.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose the Sport Business major because of my love for sports, especially the "behind the scenes" aspect of it. At the time, this was still a relatively new major that was different than the traditional Sports Management major. Because of my love for business and sports, I felt that this was a perfect match for me and what I wanted to pursue a career in.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part of the University of Akron is the people. The people I have met through classes, clubs, and just everyday interactions are super nice and always willing to help. I really feel that the University of Akron has their own community and we take care of our own. From athletic events, on-campus events, and just everyday campus life, the students here at UA know how to show their Zips pride and show what it really means to be a Zip.
Nayanika Attaluri
Hometown: Santa Clara, California
High School: Indus Universal School, India
Major(s) and minor(s): Marketing
Projected Graduation Semester: Fall 2027
Professional/Student Organizations:
American Marketing Association (President), Delta Sigma Pi (VP of Marketing), UA Dining Services (Marketing Intern), Asian Business Student Association, Fisher Sales Society, Asian Students in Akron, College of Business Dean's Team, Sport Analytics and Business Association, American Advertising Federation, Young Entrepreneurs of Akron, William's Honors College, and the Ohio Army National Guard.
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose the College of Business because I wanted an education that would prepare me for a career beyond the classroom. Since I first became interested in business at 15, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in the field, and the College of Business stood out to me because of its strong faculty, hands-on learning opportunities, and emphasis on professional development. I was also initially drawn to its Sport Management program, which allowed me to combine my interests in business and sports. Since joining the College of Business, I have been able to explore different areas of business through student organizations, leadership opportunities, internships, and connections with faculty and professionals. These experiences have helped me grow both personally and professionally and have shown me how many possibilities a business education can provide.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I have been involved in sports for most of my life, so when I became interested in business at the age of 15, pursuing a career that combined the two felt like a natural fit. I initially chose Sport Business because I was particularly interested in the business and marketing side of the sports industry. However, as I learned more about the field, I began to think about whether I wanted my career to be limited to the sports industry. That led me to switch to Marketing, which gives me the flexibility to explore opportunities across a variety of industries while still allowing me to pursue sports marketing if that is where my career takes me. Ultimately, I chose Marketing because I enjoy the creative, strategic, and analytical aspects of the field and want to develop skills that can apply wherever my career takes me.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part of the University of Akron is the sense of community and the people I have met here. My family lives in India, so being away from home can sometimes be difficult, and I definitely get homesick. However, Akron has become a home away from home for me. Through my classes, student organizations, leadership experiences, and everyday interactions on campus, I have met people who have made my experience incredibly memorable. The relationships I have built here have helped me feel connected, supported, and truly a part of the UA community.
Rose Etungano
Hometown: Akron, OH
High School: Central Christian High School
Major(s) and minor(s): Financial Management
Projected Graduation Semester: Fall 2027
Professional/Student Organizations:
ASA - treasurer
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
College of Business because it offers great networking opportunities and prepares students for successful careers. And it's the best place to grow professionally and academically.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose Financial Management because I enjoy finance and want a career that helps businesses grow.
What is your favorite part of UA?
the supportive environment at UA. The faculty, staff, and students create a community where I feel encouraged to succeed both academically and personally.
Tessa O'Keefe
Hometown: Twinsburg, Ohio
High School: Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy
Major(s) and minor(s): Marketing and Sales Management
Projected Graduation Semester: Spring 2029
Professional/Student Organizations:
Current: Campus Focus, Delight Ministries, Sports Analytic Business Association, Jimmy Malone Scholarship, Alpha Phi, Student Assistant for the College of Business Advising Office, Past: Resident Hall Program Board- Publicity Committee, Emerging Leaders, Day in the Life of a Zip Team, UA Latino's, Student Ambassador for: Bubble Skincare and Princess Polly
Why did you choose the UA College of Business?
I chose UA because, after visiting campus, I immediately knew it was right where I was supposed to be. Akron has an exceptional marketing and sales program with professors who are so much more than their titlesthey are genuine mentors to their students. UA stood out to me because the faculty took a real interest in my life outside the classroom. The College of Business motto is 'Experience Business,' and they consistently provide the opportunities to do just that. The professors, staff, and overall community create a welcoming environment unlike any other school I visited, and I am so proud to attend The University of Akron.
Why did you choose your major(s)?
I chose to major in Marketing because I have always enjoyed being creative while solving problems. Marketing allows me to use my creativity in a meaningful way while taking on new projects and challenges. I also like that it is such a broad field with many different career paths after graduation. I believe my attention to detail, ability to understand what businesses want to accomplish with their marketing efforts, and desire to create value for both businesses and individuals make marketing a great fit for me. I also chose to major in Sales because I want to challenge myself and develop skills that I have not yet fully mastered. I believe strengthening my communication and relationship-building abilities through sales will complement my marketing knowledge and help me become a well-rounded business professional.
What is your favorite part of UA?
My favorite part of the University of Akron is the wide variety of opportunities to get involved on campus. Before I even started as a student, I was invited to Evening with Business, where I had the opportunity to meet the department chairs in the College of Business. Since my freshman year, I have become involved in several student organizations, leadership opportunities, and professional events, including the Neuro AI Conference last fall. From student organizations and leadership programs to conferences and networking events, UA has provided countless opportunities to grow both personally and professionally, and that is what makes it such a special place to me. This is only the tip of the iceberg. Every year, UA continues to offer new opportunities to learn, grow, and get involved, and I am excited to see what the future holds during the rest of my time here.
