Rouzan Agadjanian '05

Merit-based scholarship
California State, Northridge
Various small and high-growth companies

Vice president, Women's Management Council
Vice President, Entrepreneurship Club
Marketing chairwoman, Entrepreneurship Symposium
Fund Manager, BR Ventures

I started my career as a graphic designer, but moved into marketing and business development positions. I realized how much I needed to learn and wanted to pursue a general management education.

At the Johnson School, I am building my leadership skills by taking advantage of the many opportunities here. I am able to evaluate a wide range of career paths by attending corporate briefings and interacting with alumni and recruiters. And I am developing relationships with an impressive group of classmates, which will last beyond my time in Ithaca.

As a fund manager with BR Ventures, I work with real companies, review their business plans, conduct due diligence and decide whether to invest. This experience will be invaluable in the future when I'm on the other side of the table, seeking funding for my own company.

One highlight of my time was a Johnson School trip to Nigeria during Spring Break 2004. During our 10 days, we learned about building businesses at the base of the pyramid.