Each year, the IUPUI Office of Alumni Relations honors 100 outstanding undergraduate students who demonstrate excellence in three categories—academic excellence, campus leadership and community engagement.
This year, seven Kelley School of Business undergraduate students at IUPUI were included in that list: Vardhan Chulani, Andrea Hanas, Garret Jochem, Alexzander Mohr, Ayesha Pandey, Andriana Smith, and Michila Weddle.
We spoke with each of our Top 100 recipients about their favorite Kelley moments, favorite Kelley classes and professors, and how they feel the Kelley School at IUPUI has prepared them for a career in business and beyond:
Vardhan Chulani, May 2022
What has been your favorite experience so far at Kelley?
My favorite experience at Kelley happened during my freshman year. Cullen Chandler, BS’20, and I decided to represent IUPUI in the Indiana University Bloomington Real Estate Club Case Competition. Being the only students from IUPUI and competing with 16 other teams of juniors and seniors from IUB, we conducted and presented a market analysis of the Indiana real estate industry by accounting for the demographics and comparable features. By the end, we were the first runners-up in the competition, and through this experience I learned more about the world of case competitions.
What has been your favorite class and why?
Apart from the classes highlighted in my degree plan, I have always believed in taking classes that teach me about a skill or an area that complements my major. Therefore, in my freshman year, I enrolled in an Introduction to Databases class, which sparked my interest in Data Analytics and how I can use it with Finance. Through this course, I am also attaining a certificate in Fundamentals of Data Analytics, which made me familiar with several programming languages such as Python, R, SQL, HTML, and more.
If you had to pick one (or a few!) professor (s) who has/have impacted you the most while at Kelley, who would it be?
Kenda Hamersley (Associate Director of the IUPUI Mathematics Assistance Center) and Kelly Murphy (former Kelley advisor). Kenda was one of the first people at IUPUI who believed in my potential and offered me the professional opportunity of guiding other students in my freshman year. She has always welcomed my ideas, accommodated different circumstances (especially with many international students), and also has given support to many of my ambitions, which has taught me to always speak up, be independent, and fearlessly pursue my goal. Her ability to manage and nurture everyone has always been an inspiration for me. The same goes for Kelly Murphy, who has always supported me to create a path for myself tailored to my interests and choices, rather than settling for a ready-made path. This impacted my academic career in a significant way, and I will always be grateful for that.
Where do you see yourself after you graduate?
Engaging in financial activities for corporations, pursuing a master’s degree, getting involved in activities to make a difference in the world, and turning many dreams into reality!
Favorite activity/extracurricular activity that you have been involved in while at Kelley?
Being part of TEDx IUPUI. Returning after six years at IUPUI, this event was organized by a new committee of 33 dreamers who were committed to inspiring everyone in the community.
TEDxIUPUI 2019 focused on providing talks on those issues that many IUPUI students faced and had the power to make a difference in changing the narrative. These topics included creativity, mental health, environment, and technology with five speakers were IUPUI students, alumni, faculty, and celebrities within the Indianapolis community.
What started as a simple collaboration between people of different talents turned into a family of constantly sharing experiences and teaching techniques while sharing the vision to make this event as educational and impressive as possible. By treading on this journey, I have been grateful to learn several important lessons, especially at the beginning of my student career. Being acquainted with my first leadership role in IUPUI, I learned the importance of top-down management within teams, working under the pressure of deadlines and delegating workload based on experience and curiosity, brainstorming and raising feasible and creative ideas when required, and backing team members and their visions. A special mention to Kamna, Elefteria, Neema, and Sharvin who always believed in my potential and ability to deliver.
What is your advice to current Kelley students?
- At this stage of your life, YOU ARE INVINCIBLE. You will always find support and inspiration from family, friends, classmates, faculty, advisors to explore and learn anything you desire and actually succeed at it, or more importantly you will learn to stand up after a failure.
- It will always begin with your curiosity and ability to inquire, plus you have the energy to give it all and take a chance at something you are fascinated by.
- Pursue non-traditional goals, always have an intention to excel and inspire those around you, always celebrate your milestones, and be grateful to those who took a chance on you.
What is your Kelley moment?
Every day when I wake up and I am blessed with an opportunity to pursue a dream of mine using the knowledge and skills I have acquired, resources or talent I have access to, and with the people I have met through IUPUI and Kelley, I am living my Kelley moment. However, a particular moment would be when I was recognized as IUPUI’s Top 100, where my academic, extracurricular, and volunteering endeavors were acknowledged.
Andrea Hanas, May 2021
What has been your favorite experience so far at Kelley? My favorite Kelley experience was studying abroad in London during my sophomore year spring break. It was an incredible experience and I made some amazing friends. The study abroad was a once in a lifetime learning opportunity, and I can’t wait to go back to Europe!
What has been your favorite class and why? It was difficult to pick just one class because I truly have had some of the best classes and best professors at IUPUI. My favorite class thus far is Team Dynamics & Leadership with Professor Westerhaus-Renfrow. I chose a non-accounting or finance course as my favorite class because I gained insight into new ideas and new ways of thinking. Professor Westerhaus-Renfrow is an amazing lecturer, and I learned how to approach situations with a new perspective.
If you had to pick one (or a few!) professor (s) who has/have impacted you the most while at Kelley, who would it be? This is an incredibly difficult question. I have not encountered a professor at IUPUI who did not take in interest in my both educational and personal growth. The Kelley professors show genuine concern in my education and development as both a student and student-athlete. Some of my favorite professors include Dr. Demetra Andrews, Diane Sturek, Martin Birr, and Michael Steinhardt. They have all provided me with new business knowledge that I will forever be grateful for.
Where do you see yourself after you graduate? I am excited to start my career in public accounting in the fall at Ernst & Young.
Favorite activity/extracurricular activity that you have been involved in while at Kelley? My favorite extracurricular activity that I have been involved in while at Kelley is the IUPUI Women’s Swimming and Diving team. I gained a second family when I joined this team, and I would not be where I am today without the support of my coaches, teammates, and the athletic staff. Balancing a rigorous training schedule and course load has taught me to stay disciplined to allow success in both my academic and athletic performance.
What is your advice to current Kelley students? My advice to current Kelley students is to get involved and to utilize the city of Indianapolis! The Kelley School of Business provides so many unique learning opportunities in and of itself, but being in the heart of a large city, there are so many more opportunities to gain hands-on learning experience and to expand your learning outside of the classroom.
What is your Kelley moment? My Kelley moment is successfully completing Honors I-CORE! Through the Kelley Honors program, I have met so many great people and professors, and I truly enjoyed spending an entire semester with some of the brightest students and best professors at IUPUI.
Garret Jochem, May 2023
What has been your favorite experience so far at Kelley?
My favorite Kelley experience has been participating in a mock trial with a group of classmates in my Business Law course. It was very exciting to build our case, put it to use, and receive feedback from a judge!
What has been your favorite class and why?
My favorite class so far has been Computers in Business. Though difficult at times, I have truthfully put the skills learned in that course to use in my classes and jobs since taking it.
If you had to pick one (or a few!) professor (s) who has/have impacted you the most while at Kelley, who would it be?
Between teaching two of my courses, connecting me to industry professionals, and simply being a valued resource anytime I need, Professor Barb Cutillo has definitely had the greatest impact on my journey at Kelley.
Where do you see yourself after you graduate?
After I graduate, I see myself working in the sports or nonprofit industry as a member of the marketing department. I would love to work my way into management someday, too.
Favorite activity/extracurricular activity that you have been involved in while at Kelley?
My favorite extracurricular activity I have been involved in while at Kelley has been my work at the Bepko Learning Center. I enjoyed meeting with students across IUPUI’s campus to help them set and achieve goals. Now, I get the privilege of working alongside an amazing group of success coaches to develop their skills, so that they may continue impacting the IUPUI student body.
What is your advice to current Kelley students?
My advice to current Kelley students is to connect and build relationships with your classmates and professors. Your classmates may soon be your co-workers, and the professors at Kelley have so many industry connections and experiences to share. There are several great resources at your disposal!
What is your Kelley moment?
My Kelley moment happened before I even stepped foot on IUPUI’s campus as a student. In high school, I completed two internships where I met several Kelley alumni, all of whom were interconnected through the school. The widespread support and connections displayed by these alumni impressed me early and really affirmed my decision to pursue a Kelley degree.
Alexzander Mohr, May 2022
What has been your favorite experience so far at Kelley?
This past fall, I participated in three different case competitions. I was able to work with fellow Kelley Indy students in cases curated by General Motors, Conexus Indiana, and IU Bloomington. We created innovative business solutions and gained valuable experiences in presentation skills and storytelling. The competitions were fun, rewarding, and helped me meet some cool people!
What has been your favorite class and why?
Dr. David Farber’s A202: Honors Financial Accounting was rigorous, but it was incredibly informative and impactful. Dr. Farber is a great teacher, and he significantly contributed to my interest in academic research. The lectures are interactive – the Socratic method of teaching is not limited to law school!
I took a Liberal Arts course, Dr. Kelly Hayes’ R101: Religion and Culture, as one of my electives. The class touched on power dynamics in America, and it allowed me to think critically and see the world from different perspectives. Every lecture was fascinating, and I appreciated the dynamism of learning about certain ideas and their somewhat uncanny/humorous/influential appearances in pop culture.
If you had to pick one (or a few!) professor (s) who has/have impacted you the most while at Kelley, who would it be?
Professor Judith Wright has been a great mentor these past few years. She has encouraged me to pursue leadership positions, engage in case competitions, and explore various academic possibilities and career paths.
Where do you see yourself after you graduate?
Eventually, I would like to travel. Though I have never left the country (let alone visited Chicago), I know there are a lot of cool things to see and experience. There is also a lot to learn – historically, culturally, and personally.
For my career, I plan on working for a company that is known for sparking innovation and challenging the status quo. I would also like to stay involved with research in some capacity.
Favorite activity/extracurricular activity that you have been involved in while at Kelley?
To be honest, I was not involved in extracurricular activities my first two years at IUPUI. I needed some time to figure out myself and my goals. Over time, I realized I wanted to significantly contribute to programs that have positive impacts on local communities, which is why I sought roles with Kelley Indianapolis Student Government (KISG), TEDxIUPUI, and a research assistantship at the IU School of Medicine (IUSM). I have greatly enjoyed getting involved with all three!
For KISG, we have created new student-focused initiatives and are in the process of implementing a new role on the executive board: The Vice President of Policy and Advocacy, whose sole responsibility is advancing the interests of the student body and developing data-driven agendas. It has been fun working toward something that will benefit Kelley Indy students for many years to come.
The TEDxIUPUI student organization has trudged through the virtual environment to orchestrate one of the largest and most influential “on campus” events. We have created a platform to highlight some of Indy’s best and brightest ideas – from #BlackLivesMatter to education equity to sustainable business operations. Organizing an event that IUPUI students, faculty, and the entire Indianapolis community alike can learn from is an honor.
I am interning with Alliances to Disseminate Addiction Prevention and Treatment (ADAPT), a program by an IUSM clinical research team. Essentially, ADAPT aims to reduce substance use of justice-involved youth in rural counties in Indiana. I have met some great researchers and managers, and the entire experience has been very fulfilling.
What is your advice to current Kelley students?
Read the Steve Jobs biography.
What is your Kelley moment?
This is my Kelley Moment.
Ayesha Pandey, May 2022
What has been your favorite experience so far at Kelley?
My favorite experience so far has been the Honors trip to New York City in the Fall of 2018. Along with Kelley faculty and over 20 classmates, I had the opportunity to travel to the nation’s financial capital, exploring key landmarks that are responsible for driving the nation’s economy. The trip consisted of visiting Wall Street, the Charging Bull, and training at the Bloomberg headquarters in heart of downtown. Visiting the New York Stock Exchange was one of the defining moments in this trip that affirmed my passion for business.
What has been your favorite class and why?
BUS L 204, Honors Commercial Law taught by Professor Judith Wright has been my favorite class so far. I always had a keen interest in law and this class served as a perfect introductory class for the same. What set this class apart was being able to present a case in front of an honorable judge in the Indiana State Court House with fellow Kelleys. This was something I only saw in movies and TV shows, so being able to put myself into an attorney’s shoes was a truly memorable and unique experience!
If you had to pick one (or a few!) professor (s) who has/have impacted you the most while at Kelley, who would it be?
Professor Charlotte Westerhaus-Renfrow has been a constant source of motivation and guidance– my Kelley experience would have been incomplete without her. Her values of grit and resilience inspired me to be passionate about the opportunities that I pursue. I had the delight to work alongside her as a Research Intern for the Advancing Indy Women Program. As a supervisor, she is extremely professional, allowing me creative autonomy that helped me develop and hone a variety of skills. As a teacher, she has an exceptional approach to learning and classroom engagement. Not only was I a student in her Honors Team Dynamics and Leadership class, but also had the opportunity to pursue an Independent study in Negotiations with her.
Where do you see yourself after you graduate?
With all the takeaways from being a Kelley student, I see myself fitting well into the globalized corporate world. I aim to work in a company that values diversity and innovation. I particularly see myself in fields that relate to marketing and operations. After gaining appropriate work experience, I plan to head back to school and pursue an MBA.
Favorite activity/extracurricular activity that you have been involved in while at Kelley?
Being a peer mentor in the International Peer Mentoring Program (IPMP) has been one of the most rewarding experiences so far. As an international student myself, I understand the challenges that students face while transitioning not only from high school to college, but also to life in a completely new country. As a mentor, I have had the opportunity to foster a diverse and welcoming environment, while giving back to the very community that helped me thrive.
What is your advice to current Kelley students?
Be intentional about the opportunities you pursue. Be passionate and dedicated to the causes you support and the activities you take part in; the quality of your work will always outshine the number of things you take part in. I would also encourage every student step out of their comfort zone. Being at Kelley is so much more than taking classes– it’s building connections with people, being involved on campus, volunteering, holding leadership positions, and so much more!
What is your Kelley moment?
As the first person to study abroad in my family, I was apprehensive of the things that I would be able to achieve. Being recognized as a Top 100 student stands out as my Kelley moment, and it has helped me affirm my motive of being a student here at IUPUI.
Andriana Smith, 2022
What has been your favorite experience so far at Kelley?
My favorite experience at Kelley was visiting the Procter and Gamble headquarters in Cincinnati with my BUS-X105 class. Being able to meet with executives and learn about business in a real setting at the beginning of my Kelley career was an amazing experience.
What has been your favorite class and why?
BUS-L204! Commercial Law is still one of my favorite classes. Being able to present an actual case in front of a Marion County Superior Court judge was a great way to apply what my team and I learned throughout the semester. While it was nerve-wracking, I will never forget the experience!
If you had to pick one (or a few!) professor (s) who has/have impacted you the most while at Kelley, who would it be?
Judith Wright and Emily Murphy!
Where do you see yourself after you graduate?
I see myself in a major city working as a digital marketing strategist.
Favorite activity/extracurricular activity that you have been involved in while at Kelley?
Delta Sigma Pi! I love this organization and everyone I’ve met because of it.
What is your advice to current Kelley students?
Take your introductory classes seriously. You’ll use what you learn in these throughout your whole Kelley career and beyond.
What is your Kelley moment?
My Kelley Moment was successfully completing Honors I-CORE! Giving that final presentation after a semester of work was such an amazing (and relieving) experience. I learned so much in that semester that I will take with me throughout the rest of my schooling and beyond.
Michila Weddle, May 2021
What has been your favorite experience so far at Kelley?
My favorite experience was I-Core, because I was able to grow academically and professionally with a wonderful group of peers. This was a hard semester but also a rewarding one.
What has been your favorite class and why?
My favorite class was Administrative Policy (J402) which focuses on studying business strategy through various case studies. J402 was my favorite class, because I was able to apply the knowledge and skills I had gained from my previous of Kelley coursework.
If you had to pick one (or a few!) professor (s) who has/have impacted you the most while at Kelley, who would it be?
Dr. Demetra Andrews, Professor Steinhardt, Dr. Meister, Professor Sturek, Professor Ketner
Where do you see yourself after you graduate?
After graduating, I will begin studying/sitting for the CPA exams. In the fall, I will begin a public accounting career at Blue and Co’s Indianapolis office as a staff accountant on the tax team.
Favorite activity/extracurricular activity that you have been involved in while at Kelley?
My favorite activity with Kelley is volunteering with Kelley Ambassadors for recruitment. I love being able to answer questions and interact with potential students and their families. With most activities being in a virtual capacity, I have been able to help with brainstorming new ideas to interact/communicate with students.
What is your advice to current Kelley students?
Find an extracurricular activity at Kelley that not only allows you to practice the skills you are learning but is also meaningful to you.
What is your Kelley moment?
My Kelley moment is the process of earning an internship and eventually my first position post-graduation. After having a few interactions with a company, I completed an interview with a manager from the firm for an X220 assignment. From this interview, I was able to secure an internship with the company spring of 2020. Even though this internship experience was not what I originally expected due my internship ending in a virtual format, I was able to complete the internship and finish a research project involving creating a database.
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