2008 SGA Election Candidates
Don't forget to vote online on 1/23 8PM - 1/25 8PM
Issue date: 1/22/08 Section: SGA Elections
Candace Kohl
MBA Day 2009
cmkohl@umich.edu
VP of MBA Affairs (1)
Ross provides a community that fosters collaboration and fun. However, no place is perfect and the potential for Ross to improve exists. That is why I am running for the Vice President of MBA Affairs. By working closely with the SGA President and administration I plan to implement changes to the problems that Ross faces. But the group that I hope to work the closest with is the MBA class. Like most MBAs, I spend tons of time in the lounge and cafeteria and hear the complaints being voiced.
The three main issues at Ross for improvement are community, communication, and transition. As I mentioned, Ross provides a collaborative community. Recognizing this as a main strength of the school means recognizing that it is something that we need to constantly nurture. We can build a stronger community by increasing interaction within the school between the sections and outside of the school. I propose doing this by creating optional weekly volunteer activities in Ann Arbor and Detroit. We all know that time is limited, but engaging in the community offers us a chance to build our own further.
The second opportunity for improvement is increased communication between the students and the administration. In order to effect change, we need to bring together the voice of the students with the decision-makers. I see the opportunity to utilize the Monroe Street Journal to publicize student issues and the work being done by SGA. The MSJ offers an opportunity for increased transparency between the two groups.
Lastly, I plan to focus on issues that arise as we transition to the new building. Many of the concerns that we currently face, space, food, etc., are supposedly going to disappear when we move in to the new building. However, I anticipate that not all will disappear. We need to be prepared for problems as they arise. I personally hope for better food in the new building. In the meantime, I am happy to provide a list of excellent options near campus.
More important than the issues that I identified are the ones that you see. I hope to act as a voice of all MBAs. Not to sound like a cover letter, but I am relationship focused and goal driven. I could provide evidence from prior experience, but I will save you the details. The love that I have for Ross and the University of Michigan should be proof that I want to help the school be the best. Because B-School should be fun, vote Candace Kohl for Vice President of MBA Affairs!
Xavier Fuller
BBA 2009
xfuller@umich.edu
VP of BBA Affairs (1)
When walking around the business school, we see the words, "Leading in Thought and Action." All of us are here because we envisioned ourselves being a BBA student, and then we executed the necessary actions to become part of the Ross community. Now it is time to unite and build a stronger foundation for the future of Ross. It is time to give back to the community that has given us the opportunity of a lifetime. I, Xavier Fuller, am running for VP of BBA Affairs, because I am confident I will represent the BBA class in its entirety and will dedicate myself to enhancing our community, creating unity, and leaving a legacy.
Developing class unity starts with continuing and improving upon Ross traditions like BBA Games and BBA formal. It also includes continuing the newest tradition of the Junior Class event and initiating traditions for the sophomore class. To organize and support these events requires leadership experience as well as strong communication skills. Having been a former cheerleader for Michigan, I am here to continue the unity and pride of our community.
This year I have taken an active involvement with the BBA Alumni Relations Committee. Earlier this year, I worked on the Alumni Weekend event and had the opportunity to meet former MBA and BBA alumni. I stay in touch with many of them and provide updates with the student life at Ross. I find it really important to communicate with the current and former students of Ross about their time here and see what improvements are needed to enhance the Ross Experience. I was in the first group of students to participate in the 3-year program, so I understand the challenge facing sophomores to find a future that fits their personal interests. I am working with Ross SGA and the alumni committee on an event for sophomores to explore potential careers and to network with former Ross students-taking place February 8th.
From past experiences, I am aware that executing events requires lots of work, communication, and organization to get things done and on time. I promise you that if elected I will work with all of the Ross community to provide the best experience for all BBA students. This position is about continuing traditions and setting forth new ones. Success for VP of BBA Affairs is defined by the collective legacy we leave behind us at Ross. We should leave Ross even better and stronger than we found it by enhancing its culture of success, tradition, and spirit. To do so, it needs to be lead not only in thought, but also in action. I am taking action by running for VP of BBA Affairs.
Anish Rao
BBA 2010
anishrao@umich.edu
VP of Finance (1)
The question should not be what my qualifications are or what my past experience is - though, as I will mention, I have sufficient amounts of both. Instead, the question is, "What can I do to help you?" You are the voters and it's about your money - be it from your tuition or from locker sales. Usually, people want their money to be put to good use. There is an unsaid agreement when you pay taxes that the government will provide you benefits such as infrastructure, security, etc. But you don't necessarily think about this when you pay your taxes. Today, I urge you to think about what your money can do. It could be used to benefit you, our school, and everyone who is part of it. It's not about me, it's about you!
Now, let me tell you why I would be the best candidate to help you. The fact that I have not had much direct involvement with the SGA humbles me. Nonetheless, I have been fortunate enough to be part of a few student organizations like BOSS and Europa Forum, and to observe the funding process closely. Interacting with Phil Obrzut, the current VP of Finance, I have learned a great deal about the SGA and the disbursement procedures. I have handled company accounts in the past and successfully managed balance sheets as well; I was always a straight A student in Accounting.
I am a hard worker, a quick learner, and thrive under pressure. I can promise you that if you vote for me, I will work tirelessly so that I can provide you with opportunities that will enrich your time at The Ross School of Business. Your vote matters and I will make your money matter. So help me help you! Thank you for your support and consideration.
Sandip Mody
MBA Day 2009
sdmody@umich.edu
VP of MBA Affairs (1)
VP of Clubs (2)
VP of Operations (3)
As VP of MBA Affairs (or any other SGA position), I envision leading the MBA program to better meet the needs of current and future students. My current SGA background involves representing section 4's Global Citizenship Committee. I have also worked with the school's Organizational Strategy Club in a leadership role. I am passionate about creating feasible and tangible changes for our entire student body. These include:
Improved Communication: I believe many of us have great ideas, big and small, that can positively impact the school. Often these voices are not heard due to personal priorities (classes, recruiting, etc.), or due to an inadequate communications vehicle to raise concerns. I envision implementing a web based system so that all suggestions are considered and potentially acted upon.
Commitment to Leadership Training: As a first year MBA, it was great to see the impact RLI has had on our class. I think they have taken great measures to ensure that our education goes beyond classroom instruction. I would like to work with RLI to help provide ample leadership development opportunities to all MBAs during their first and second year.
Career Development: I would like to see the OCD provide more resources for career exploration opportunities. For most of us, this is our last chance to make a drastic career change. It is imperative that we have the resources, guidance, and network to make sure our decision is the right one. I believe the OCD has taken substantial measures to help us with this, but I think there is still room for improvement. Second, I would like to work with the OCD to ensure there are enough career opportunities for International students. I would like to make sure the relevant information is clearly visible regarding employers preference for International students.
Technology Enhancements: Because so many students use Blackberry's, I would like the university to implement technology so that we can not only receive and sync email, but also calendar updates in real-time. It is a wireless world and we should be at the forefront of this technology. Second, I would like to see an HDTV replace the current analog projection box in the lobby. I realize these are expensive propositions, but if there is enough student demand, it would be great to see these changes.
These are just several propositions I maintain. As VP of MBA Affairs, I would be willing to listen to any option and help my classmates with these suggestions. I realize Ross is a team oriented and collaborative environment, and I will maintain this sentiment in working with the SGA board. Thank you for your consideration and I hope to gain your vote.
Roopak Pati
BBA 2010
roopak@umich.edu
VP of Finance (1)
I believe I can be an effective Vice President of Finance for the Ross School of Business. Vice President of Finance is a very important position because it responsible for finding ways to raise money for the SGA and managing the budget appropriately so that business school students can get the most out of their experience.
What make me fit to be the Vice President of Finance? I have experience doing exactly what this position requires on a smaller scale. Last year, I was the president of my house in South Quad and managed to throw the most successful event of the year on a budget of $250. Last semester, I was the social chair of my fraternity and raised over $1000 in two nights through club parties with no budget to start with. I have worked with varied companies and organizations from Big Ten Burrito to M-Salsa to Studio 4 to raise money and bring together the community in my previous positions. I believe this past experience has prepared me to take on the much bigger and more important role of VP of Finance of Ross.
What are my plans for the next one year? I plan to push for a greater number of networking and community building events within the Ross community. One of the first events I wish to add to the schedule is a MBA/BBA Club Party. I believe that in a night club setting we can enjoy our normal weekend lifestyle while networking with both older and younger students. In my mind, the ideal way to make the contacts you need to get the internship or full-time position you are looking for, or even just to establish connections with your fellow classmates, is by having fun with them at a party. I hope to work closely with the executive board to create this event and take current events like the BBA Formal to a new level.
As we all know, the biggest change in the next one year will be the move to the new building. This will undoubtedly be met with much joy and relief as well as some unhappiness. I will make my best effort as VP of Finance and as a part of the SGA Executive Board to make this transition as easy as possible.
I would like to greatly encourage everyone to take a close look at all the candidates and vote this week. Suggestions have driven me to success in my past positions so I would greatly appreciate it if you would send any suggestions you might have to roopak@umich.edu. I am a big supporter of effective communication so throughout the year I will let you know only what you need to know instead of spamming your inbox. I invite everyone to come meet me and let me know your ideas on Thursday, January 24 at 2-5pm in the Executive Residence Lobby where I will be giving out free Insomnia Cookies! FREE COOKIES??? Yes, free cookies so come early.
Eling Yang
MBA Day 2009
elingy@umich.edu
SGA President (1)
VP of MBA Affairs (2)
Hi everyone! I am excited to run for the office of VP of MBA Affairs of SGA. Someone once told me that the biggest gift that could be given to others was that of time and energy. I would like to give my time and energy to each of you by continuously improving daily life in the Ross community. Though I can't promise to open the new school earlier or get you a job, I can promise that I will devote myself to whatever concerns that you may have. Whether it be better wireless throughout the building or longer cafe hours, I empower you to let me know how I can continue to make Ross a great place where we spend hours on end. I would love the privilege to be your voice in the upcoming year. Please remember to vote. Thank you!
Manish Nagpal
MBA Day 2009
manishn@umich.edu
VP of MBA Affairs (1)
VP of Finance (2)
VP of Operations (3)
MBA Day 2009
cmkohl@umich.edu
VP of MBA Affairs (1)
Ross provides a community that fosters collaboration and fun. However, no place is perfect and the potential for Ross to improve exists. That is why I am running for the Vice President of MBA Affairs. By working closely with the SGA President and administration I plan to implement changes to the problems that Ross faces. But the group that I hope to work the closest with is the MBA class. Like most MBAs, I spend tons of time in the lounge and cafeteria and hear the complaints being voiced.
The three main issues at Ross for improvement are community, communication, and transition. As I mentioned, Ross provides a collaborative community. Recognizing this as a main strength of the school means recognizing that it is something that we need to constantly nurture. We can build a stronger community by increasing interaction within the school between the sections and outside of the school. I propose doing this by creating optional weekly volunteer activities in Ann Arbor and Detroit. We all know that time is limited, but engaging in the community offers us a chance to build our own further.
The second opportunity for improvement is increased communication between the students and the administration. In order to effect change, we need to bring together the voice of the students with the decision-makers. I see the opportunity to utilize the Monroe Street Journal to publicize student issues and the work being done by SGA. The MSJ offers an opportunity for increased transparency between the two groups.
Lastly, I plan to focus on issues that arise as we transition to the new building. Many of the concerns that we currently face, space, food, etc., are supposedly going to disappear when we move in to the new building. However, I anticipate that not all will disappear. We need to be prepared for problems as they arise. I personally hope for better food in the new building. In the meantime, I am happy to provide a list of excellent options near campus.
More important than the issues that I identified are the ones that you see. I hope to act as a voice of all MBAs. Not to sound like a cover letter, but I am relationship focused and goal driven. I could provide evidence from prior experience, but I will save you the details. The love that I have for Ross and the University of Michigan should be proof that I want to help the school be the best. Because B-School should be fun, vote Candace Kohl for Vice President of MBA Affairs!
Xavier Fuller
BBA 2009
xfuller@umich.edu
VP of BBA Affairs (1)
When walking around the business school, we see the words, "Leading in Thought and Action." All of us are here because we envisioned ourselves being a BBA student, and then we executed the necessary actions to become part of the Ross community. Now it is time to unite and build a stronger foundation for the future of Ross. It is time to give back to the community that has given us the opportunity of a lifetime. I, Xavier Fuller, am running for VP of BBA Affairs, because I am confident I will represent the BBA class in its entirety and will dedicate myself to enhancing our community, creating unity, and leaving a legacy.
Developing class unity starts with continuing and improving upon Ross traditions like BBA Games and BBA formal. It also includes continuing the newest tradition of the Junior Class event and initiating traditions for the sophomore class. To organize and support these events requires leadership experience as well as strong communication skills. Having been a former cheerleader for Michigan, I am here to continue the unity and pride of our community.
This year I have taken an active involvement with the BBA Alumni Relations Committee. Earlier this year, I worked on the Alumni Weekend event and had the opportunity to meet former MBA and BBA alumni. I stay in touch with many of them and provide updates with the student life at Ross. I find it really important to communicate with the current and former students of Ross about their time here and see what improvements are needed to enhance the Ross Experience. I was in the first group of students to participate in the 3-year program, so I understand the challenge facing sophomores to find a future that fits their personal interests. I am working with Ross SGA and the alumni committee on an event for sophomores to explore potential careers and to network with former Ross students-taking place February 8th.
From past experiences, I am aware that executing events requires lots of work, communication, and organization to get things done and on time. I promise you that if elected I will work with all of the Ross community to provide the best experience for all BBA students. This position is about continuing traditions and setting forth new ones. Success for VP of BBA Affairs is defined by the collective legacy we leave behind us at Ross. We should leave Ross even better and stronger than we found it by enhancing its culture of success, tradition, and spirit. To do so, it needs to be lead not only in thought, but also in action. I am taking action by running for VP of BBA Affairs.
Anish Rao
BBA 2010
anishrao@umich.edu
VP of Finance (1)
The question should not be what my qualifications are or what my past experience is - though, as I will mention, I have sufficient amounts of both. Instead, the question is, "What can I do to help you?" You are the voters and it's about your money - be it from your tuition or from locker sales. Usually, people want their money to be put to good use. There is an unsaid agreement when you pay taxes that the government will provide you benefits such as infrastructure, security, etc. But you don't necessarily think about this when you pay your taxes. Today, I urge you to think about what your money can do. It could be used to benefit you, our school, and everyone who is part of it. It's not about me, it's about you!
Now, let me tell you why I would be the best candidate to help you. The fact that I have not had much direct involvement with the SGA humbles me. Nonetheless, I have been fortunate enough to be part of a few student organizations like BOSS and Europa Forum, and to observe the funding process closely. Interacting with Phil Obrzut, the current VP of Finance, I have learned a great deal about the SGA and the disbursement procedures. I have handled company accounts in the past and successfully managed balance sheets as well; I was always a straight A student in Accounting.
I am a hard worker, a quick learner, and thrive under pressure. I can promise you that if you vote for me, I will work tirelessly so that I can provide you with opportunities that will enrich your time at The Ross School of Business. Your vote matters and I will make your money matter. So help me help you! Thank you for your support and consideration.
Sandip Mody
MBA Day 2009
sdmody@umich.edu
VP of MBA Affairs (1)
VP of Clubs (2)
VP of Operations (3)
As VP of MBA Affairs (or any other SGA position), I envision leading the MBA program to better meet the needs of current and future students. My current SGA background involves representing section 4's Global Citizenship Committee. I have also worked with the school's Organizational Strategy Club in a leadership role. I am passionate about creating feasible and tangible changes for our entire student body. These include:
Improved Communication: I believe many of us have great ideas, big and small, that can positively impact the school. Often these voices are not heard due to personal priorities (classes, recruiting, etc.), or due to an inadequate communications vehicle to raise concerns. I envision implementing a web based system so that all suggestions are considered and potentially acted upon.
Commitment to Leadership Training: As a first year MBA, it was great to see the impact RLI has had on our class. I think they have taken great measures to ensure that our education goes beyond classroom instruction. I would like to work with RLI to help provide ample leadership development opportunities to all MBAs during their first and second year.
Career Development: I would like to see the OCD provide more resources for career exploration opportunities. For most of us, this is our last chance to make a drastic career change. It is imperative that we have the resources, guidance, and network to make sure our decision is the right one. I believe the OCD has taken substantial measures to help us with this, but I think there is still room for improvement. Second, I would like to work with the OCD to ensure there are enough career opportunities for International students. I would like to make sure the relevant information is clearly visible regarding employers preference for International students.
Technology Enhancements: Because so many students use Blackberry's, I would like the university to implement technology so that we can not only receive and sync email, but also calendar updates in real-time. It is a wireless world and we should be at the forefront of this technology. Second, I would like to see an HDTV replace the current analog projection box in the lobby. I realize these are expensive propositions, but if there is enough student demand, it would be great to see these changes.
These are just several propositions I maintain. As VP of MBA Affairs, I would be willing to listen to any option and help my classmates with these suggestions. I realize Ross is a team oriented and collaborative environment, and I will maintain this sentiment in working with the SGA board. Thank you for your consideration and I hope to gain your vote.
Roopak Pati
BBA 2010
roopak@umich.edu
VP of Finance (1)
I believe I can be an effective Vice President of Finance for the Ross School of Business. Vice President of Finance is a very important position because it responsible for finding ways to raise money for the SGA and managing the budget appropriately so that business school students can get the most out of their experience.
What make me fit to be the Vice President of Finance? I have experience doing exactly what this position requires on a smaller scale. Last year, I was the president of my house in South Quad and managed to throw the most successful event of the year on a budget of $250. Last semester, I was the social chair of my fraternity and raised over $1000 in two nights through club parties with no budget to start with. I have worked with varied companies and organizations from Big Ten Burrito to M-Salsa to Studio 4 to raise money and bring together the community in my previous positions. I believe this past experience has prepared me to take on the much bigger and more important role of VP of Finance of Ross.
What are my plans for the next one year? I plan to push for a greater number of networking and community building events within the Ross community. One of the first events I wish to add to the schedule is a MBA/BBA Club Party. I believe that in a night club setting we can enjoy our normal weekend lifestyle while networking with both older and younger students. In my mind, the ideal way to make the contacts you need to get the internship or full-time position you are looking for, or even just to establish connections with your fellow classmates, is by having fun with them at a party. I hope to work closely with the executive board to create this event and take current events like the BBA Formal to a new level.
As we all know, the biggest change in the next one year will be the move to the new building. This will undoubtedly be met with much joy and relief as well as some unhappiness. I will make my best effort as VP of Finance and as a part of the SGA Executive Board to make this transition as easy as possible.
I would like to greatly encourage everyone to take a close look at all the candidates and vote this week. Suggestions have driven me to success in my past positions so I would greatly appreciate it if you would send any suggestions you might have to roopak@umich.edu. I am a big supporter of effective communication so throughout the year I will let you know only what you need to know instead of spamming your inbox. I invite everyone to come meet me and let me know your ideas on Thursday, January 24 at 2-5pm in the Executive Residence Lobby where I will be giving out free Insomnia Cookies! FREE COOKIES??? Yes, free cookies so come early.
Eling Yang
MBA Day 2009
elingy@umich.edu
SGA President (1)
VP of MBA Affairs (2)
Hi everyone! I am excited to run for the office of VP of MBA Affairs of SGA. Someone once told me that the biggest gift that could be given to others was that of time and energy. I would like to give my time and energy to each of you by continuously improving daily life in the Ross community. Though I can't promise to open the new school earlier or get you a job, I can promise that I will devote myself to whatever concerns that you may have. Whether it be better wireless throughout the building or longer cafe hours, I empower you to let me know how I can continue to make Ross a great place where we spend hours on end. I would love the privilege to be your voice in the upcoming year. Please remember to vote. Thank you!
Manish Nagpal
MBA Day 2009
manishn@umich.edu
VP of MBA Affairs (1)
VP of Finance (2)
VP of Operations (3)
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