Dafina Vukaj, a student in the Class of 2027 at Pace University, has shared her experiences studying Business Analytics with a minor in Marketing at the Lubin School of Business. She highlighted several reasons for choosing Pace, including its strong academic reputation and high post-graduate success rates. “According to Pace Career Services, 93 percent of graduates are employed or continuing their education shortly after graduation, reflecting the University’s commitment to student success and career readiness,” Vukaj said.
She also cited the university’s location in New York City’s Financial District as a significant factor. The proximity to global companies and financial institutions provides students with opportunities for internships and networking. “I believe there is no better place to study business than in an environment where business happens every day,” she added.
Vukaj emphasized that Lubin’s focus on real-world application distinguishes it from other programs. She explained that students are encouraged to apply their knowledge through internships and industry engagement rather than focusing solely on academic theory.
Campus clubs have played an important role in her development. As a co-founder and vice president of Women in Lubin, Vukaj said these activities have helped her grow as both a leader and collaborator. “It has provided an outlet to apply my academic knowledge in a real-world setting, connect with students across different majors, and create events that inspire others to think intentionally about their futures after graduation,” she said.
Her involvement with the Pforzheimer Honors College has also been valuable. Vukaj described receiving guidance from advisors that helped her stay focused on her goals: “Through active and accessible advisors, I have received guidance that has helped me stay focused on my academic and professional goals—even when I was unsure which path to pursue within business.”
Reflecting on her time at Pace so far, Vukaj mentioned various opportunities such as participating in the Wall Street Acceleration Program and attending events hosted by major firms like Morgan Stanley and Crédit Agricole. These experiences allowed her to see how classroom concepts translate into business environments.
For other Lubin students, she advised taking advantage of campus organizations and events: “Attending meetings, workshops, and networking events has helped me build professional confidence and form meaningful connections.” She named several clubs—including the American Marketing Association (AMA), Undergraduate Finance Club, Women in Lubin, and INFORMS—as offering valuable skill-building opportunities.
Describing what #LubinLife means to her, Vukaj stated: “To me, #LubinLife means thinking about the bigger picture. It represents a community where professors, advisors, and students are genuinely invested in helping you shape your journey at Pace and prepare to step confidently into the professional world.”
She encouraged students to use available resources: “If you are willing to ask questions, seek guidance, and put yourself out there, someone is always ready to help. #LubinLife means taking advantage of these resources, building connections, and striving to grow beyond the classroom.”
