Aliyah Nelson

“Passionate pharmaceutical sales representative, dedicated first-generation graduate student, and proud military spouse, embracing new challenges”

Hometown: Westfield, New Jersey

Fun Fact About Yourself: During high school, I organized and led multiple fundraisers over three years for a volunteer trip to Togo, West Africa. While there, I taught English in two local orphanages and assisted health care professionals in local clinics.

I had always dreamed of volunteering abroad because I believe in the power of giving back and the importance of engaging oneself in new cultures. I was driven to make a meaningful impact in a community where children do not have access to the same opportunities and resources I had, while also challenging myself to be fully immersed in the experience of living in a developing country for four weeks. Volunteering in Togo provided me the chance to connect with people in a deeper way, contribute to their growth, and learn from their resilience and unique perspectives.

One of the most rewarding moments from my trip was learning how to effectively use the limited resources available. In the orphanages, I had only a blackboard and chalk, which required me to think critically and create innovative teaching strategies. I came up with a game where I drew pictures of everyday items, and the students would race to shout out the correct English word.

Undergraduate School and Major: San Diego State University, double major in French and international business with an emphasis in Italian and Western Europe, minor in interdisciplinary studies

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: I am currently employed for Pfizer as a health and science professional in women’s health. I was inspired to continue my professional career in pharmaceutical sales because it combines my passion for helping people with the opportunity to make a real impact on their lives. I also thrive in competitive environments, and this industry provides the perfect balance of challenge and purpose. What I love most is the meaningful work and the constant drive to grow and succeed in a fast-paced, results-driven field.

What were some of the key motivating factors behind pursuing your MBA, and why did this seem like the right time for you?

Becoming eligible for the CalVet waiver recently as a military veteran spouse was a significant moment for me. Pursuing a graduate degree has always been a goal of mine, and the waiver allows me to pursue higher education without the burden of taking on additional debt, which was important given my existing undergraduate student loans.

I’ve always aspired to expand my skills in strategic leadership and business management, with the aim of taking on more significant leadership roles in the pharmaceutical sales industry. I believe that obtaining an MBA will enhance my ability to contribute to my company and customers, equipping me with the tools needed to excel in my current role and eventually advance within my company. This degree will provide the knowledge and skills necessary to drive strategic initiatives and become a more valuable asset in the pharmaceutical industry.

What are one or two key aspects of this MBA program that stood out among the others, and why were they so important to you?

One key aspect that stood out to me was the proximity of UCR to my home. Being close to home was crucial as it allowed me to balance my professional responsibilities at Pfizer while pursuing my MBA. Additionally, UCR’s program offers multiple concentrations, providing the opportunity to select courses that align with the practical knowledge and expertise I want to build upon. This combination of location, flexibility, and targeted learning made UCR the perfect fit for my educational and career aspirations.

What club, activity, or experience at the school have you most enjoyed so far, and why?

The experience I’ve enjoyed most so far at UCR has been the orientation. It was during this time that I truly got a sense of what UCR’s business school is all about. The orientation was filled with team-building activities encouraging collaboration and communication among peers. These activities were not just fun, but also instrumental in helping us understand the importance of working together and supporting each other throughout the program. I had the chance to connect with classmates from diverse backgrounds, which helped me appreciate the various perspectives that each person brings to the table.

One of the highlights was the keynote speech by global business executive and UCR alumnus Tim Wiseman, who spoke about the importance of adaptability in today’s global business environment. His insights on embracing different cultures and perspectives really resonated with me and underscored the value of flexibility and open-mindedness in leadership.

What is your biggest accomplishment in your career so far?

My biggest accomplishment in my career so far has been earning the position of a pharmaceutical sales representative. I knew the role was highly competitive, but I’ve always been driven to work in an innovative field where I could make a positive impact in health care, motivated by my passion for helping people and making a difference. It took years of hard work, learning, and perseverance to gain the experience and confidence needed to break into this role.

After earning my undergraduate degree, I worked for Enterprise Rent-A-Car, where I quickly advanced through their managerial program as a consistent top performer, earning four promotions in just two years. This experience helped me learn how to run and manage a business successfully by teaching me strong leadership, sales, and customer service skills. I knew I wanted a career in a field where I could have a more direct impact on people’s lives. I knew that health care would give me the opportunity to achieve that. Becoming a pharmaceutical sales representative was the fulfillment of a long-held goal, and this role has been incredibly rewarding.

What is one thing you have recently read, watched, or listened to that you would highly recommend to other prospective MBAs? Why?

One book I recently read and highly recommend to other prospective MBAs is What I Wish I Knew When I Was 20: A Crash Course on Making Your Place in the World by Tina Seelig. I re-read it every year because it offers such timeless advice on how to embrace creativity, take risks, and turn challenges into opportunities. Seelig encourages readers to think entrepreneurially and approach problems with a fresh perspective. These skills are invaluable in business. Her emphasis on innovation, resilience, and seeing the world as “opportunity-rich” resonates with me because it helps me stay motivated to continuously learn and grow in my career.

What are two things you have learned at your school that have surprised you so far — one academic and one non-academic?

One academic thing that has surprised me so far is the real-world application of the concepts we’re learning. I expected the coursework to be theoretical, but many of the assignments and projects involve solving actual business problems and how to effectively use resources in the real business world. I did not expect AI to be such a prominent part of the curriculum, but it has been fascinating to see how these tools can be leveraged for decision-making, data analysis, and optimizing business processes. This knowledge has opened my eyes to new possibilities for innovation. Additionally, I’ve been surprised by how much I’ve learned about the value of embracing diverse perspectives. The program includes many students from various backgrounds, industries, and cultures. This diversity has broadened my understanding of global business and teamwork, while also teaching me the importance of staying open-minded. Engaging with different viewpoints has enhanced my ability to think critically and approach challenges with a well-rounded perspective.

What has been the biggest epiphany you’ve gained about yourself or the world since you started your MBA program?

The biggest epiphany I’ve gained since starting my MBA program is realizing the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. I have discovered that no matter how much experience I have, there is always more to learn, especially in a rapidly evolving business environment. This realization has deepened my commitment to not just applying what I know, but also to continually seeking out new knowledge and skills. It has taught me the value of being a lifelong learner and the impact this will have on my career and how I contribute to the success of my team and organization.

What advice would you give to help prospective MBAs as they look to gain admission into an MBA program?

My advice is to clearly articulate your experiences, strengths, accomplishments, and motivations in your application. This will help you stand out to the admissions committee by allowing them to see who you are as a person and how your experiences have shaped your goals and aspirations. Thoroughly research the programs and ensure they align with your career objectives and personal values. Take the time to network and reach out to current students, alumni, and faculty; they will provide valuable insights into the program, help you get a better sense of the community, and determine if it is the right MBA program for you.