Jefferson’s School of Business Unlocks Global Careers

In an increasingly interconnected world, navigating diverse business environments is paramount. At Jefferson’s School of Business, a rigorous curriculum and immersive experiences equip students to thrive in the global marketplace.

MBA graduates like Sami Arbain, Kartik Sudhakar and Mihaela Bodocan exemplify how a Jefferson education fosters adaptability and international perspectives in their careers.

Sami Arbain: Project Manager at Toyota, Belgium (BS ’18, MBA ’19)
Arbain’s journey from Morocco to the heart of the European automotive industry serves as a powerful testament to the global potential unlocked by a Jefferson education. Initially drawn to pursue an MBA due to the flexibility of completing the program in just one year, Arbain embraced the rigorous coursework and environment that the University offered.

“The most important aspect of my education at Jefferson was the opportunity to work alongside a diverse group of students,” Arbain shares. “Being in a classroom with individuals from various nationalities and backgrounds sharpened my ability to adapt and communicate effectively.”

Graduating with an MBA in 2019, Arbain began his career at Bimbo Bakeries in the United States as an international student under a temporary visa. However, as his visa expired, he returned to Morocco, where he landed a position with an American company operating locally. His persistence and international exposure eventually led him to a role at Toyota in Belgium. Here, he oversees compliance with European Union automotive regulations.

Arbain emphasizes the importance of Jefferson in his international career. “Having a degree from a U.S. institution is highly regarded globally. It’s a valuable asset that gives you a competitive edge in markets like Europe.”

Kartik Sudhakar: Principal at Veeva Systems, London (MBA ’21)
For Sudhakar, pursuing an MBA was a strategic move that combined his passion for health care with his career aspirations. After completing his undergraduate studies, he worked for a Philadelphia healthcare software firm for several years.

Recognizing the growing significance of biopharmaceutical commercialization, Sudhakar chose to enhance his expertise through Jefferson’s specialized MBA program, which integrates a healthcare lens into business education.

“Studying at Jefferson provided me with invaluable insights into the healthcare industry on a global scale,” he explains. “The curriculum, with its strong international focus, prepared me to address complex global challenges in health care.”

After graduating in December 2021, Sudhakar secured a position at Veeva Systems, a leader in healthcare technology. His role as principal involves market analytics and expert identification for pharmaceutical companies, highlighting his capacity to bridge business and health care on a global platform.

“Jefferson gave me the tools to understand not just the U.S. market, but also how to operate effectively in international environments,” Sudhakar reflects. “Being able to adapt and understand various business practices has been crucial in my transition from New York to London.”

Mihaela Bodocan: Senior Project Manager at SEI, London (MBA ’15)
Bodocan’s journey from Romania to senior project manager at SEI in England exemplifies the transformative impact of education. Trained as a teacher with a graduate degree in political science, she decided to pursue an MBA at Jefferson to enhance her career opportunities and improve her English.

At Jefferson, Bodocan thrived in a diverse environment enriched by a mix of international students and distinguished faculty.

“The eclectic group of professors and the international MBA program provided a valuable perspective on business,” she says.

Networking opportunities at Jefferson, including access to alumni and industry resources like the CFA Institute, empowered Bodocan to connect with professionals in her field. She emphasizes the importance of these connections, saying, “If you ask my friends, I can talk to anyone. Networking and the support from professors helped me navigate my career.”

Today, Bodocan attributes her success to the strong foundation she built at Jefferson. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the school and support,” she says.

Her story serves as an inspiration for prospective students, highlighting how education can unlock significant career potential in an international context.

A Global Perspective at Jefferson
These student paths illustrate the global focus embedded within the fabric of Jefferson’s School of Business. Through diverse, interdisciplinary projects and exposure to international markets, students develop the vital skills required to excel globally.

“Connections made at Jefferson are invaluable,” Arbain notes. “The friends and colleagues you meet span continents, and those networks are instrumental in navigating the global job market.”

School of Business Dean Dr. Philip Russel emphasizes, “At Jefferson, we prepare students to lead in a globally connected world. Our mission is simple: Learn here. Make an impact anywhere.”

Through their studies and experiences at Jefferson, alumni like Arbain, Sudhakar and Bodocan embody this mission, paving the way for the next generation of global business leaders. Whether pursuing careers in Europe or beyond, Jefferson graduates come equipped with the skills, knowledge and connections necessary to succeed anywhere their ambitions take them.