Stern Chats President Mridula Rajagopal sits down with first-gen students Alexa Johnson and JC Arenas as they share what it’s like to be the first in their families to pursue higher education. This episode explores the challenges many first-gen students face, highlighting the resilience, ambition, and identity-shaping moments that define their journeys in a conversation full of insight, encouragement, and heart.

Host: Mridula Rajagopal

Produced by: Mridula Rajagopal

Edited by: Alex Cheung

Music by: Jesse Han

It's Veterans Week, and we're celebrating it here at Stern! In this episode of Stern Chats, MBA2 student veterans Shea S., Chris Lynas, and Tony Vu speak with host Alex Cheung about their military service, transitioning to Stern, and their future plans. They discuss some of the highs-and-lows of wearing the uniform and the misconceptions they have faced as veterans and what they're working toward in the future.

Host: Alex Cheung

Produced by: Alex Cheung

Edited by: Mridula Rajagopal

Music by: Jesse Han

In this episode of Stern Chats, host Allana Akhtar sits down with Ali Raza, Amani Malik, and Shahriyar Haider to chat about the newly launched affinity and professional club, Muslims in Business (MiB). They share the excitement behind starting MiB, fostering a sense of belonging for Muslim students, and building connections through shared experiences. Tune in to hear how MiB plans to grow, collaborate, and bring more students together across campus.

Host: Allana Akhtar

Produced by: Allana Akhtar

Edited by: Alex Cheung

Music by: Jesse Han

NYU and Stern has long been known to be a vibrant, international space; the latest MBA class has 43 countries represented! But what does it feel like, really, to move to New York for school? What should you know about the subway, Times Square, and cheap eats before you get here? That's just what hosts Gab Lombos and Siddhant Sharma discuss with guests Katherine Jiang and Joao Lima -- all international Sternies -- on this episode of Stern Chats. From finding community and embracing cultural differences to adjusting to the Big Apple, they share lighthearted stories and reflections on life away from home, offering a fun and honest look at building a new life in New York City.

Hosts: Gab Lombos & Siddhant Sharma

Produced by: Mridula Rajagopal

Edited by: Alex Cheung

Music by: Jesse Han

In celebration of Diwali, this episode of Stern Chats spotlights SABAS and their mission to celebrate culture, foster community, and build bridges across campus. Host Sim Ahuja sits down with Kose Mathew, Anjali Nadeswaran, and Sanaya Shikari to discuss how their programming, cross-club collaborations, and cultural initiatives bring South Asian traditions to life at Stern, creating moments of both celebration and education that strengthen the community.

Host: Sim Ahuja

Produced by: Sim Ahuja

Edited by: Alex Cheung

Music by: Jesse Han

Getting off the waitlist is no small feat — and for many students, it’s just the beginning. In this episode of Stern Chats, host Alisha Agrawal sits down with Akiera Charles to share their journeys from uncertainty to acceptance, and the lessons they learned along the way. Together, they offer encouragement and practical advice for prospective students navigating the re-application process and finding their place at Stern.

Host: Alisha Agrawal

Produced by: Alisha Agrawal, Mridula Rajagopal

Edited by: Alex Cheung

Music by: Jesse Han

This week on Stern Chats, we’re talking about connection, community, and the unexpected moments that turn classmates into close friends. Host Sailey Thomasi sits down with friends Jordan Guillory and Noa Tshimanga to reflect on how they met during LAUNCH — and how their friendship grew beyond it. From group chats that stuck, to spontaneous adventures, they share what helped them find a sense of belonging at Stern.

Host: Sailey Thomasi

Produced by: Sailey Thomasi

Edited by: Alex Cheung

Music by: Jesse Han

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, our latest episode explores the intersection of identity, culture, and business here at Stern. Host Anna Caceres, AHBBS VP of Events, sits down with Sandra Palomino Ruiz and Manuela Robledo, Co-Presidents of LABA, and Anthony Anzora, LABA Officer and AHBBS member, to chat about personal experiences, challenges, and insights on how heritage shapes their journey through business school and and the communities they've built along the way.

Host: Anna Caceres

Produced by: Anna Caceres

Edited by: Alex Cheung

Music by: Jesse Han

We're back for Season 17! And fall recruiting season is here — and for GFA & MCA students, it can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Stern Chats, hosts Sim Ahuja and Allana Akhtar sit down with GFA president Taylor Rooks and MCA president Bella Roussanov to unpack what the recruiting process really looks like, how to manage the stress, and what strategies can set you up for success.

Hosts: Sim Ahuja & Allana Akhtar

Produced by: Sim Ahuja

Edited by: Alex Cheung

Music by: Jesse Han

It’s the final episode of the season! Outgoing co-presidents Gauri Misra & Daulat Mahadik pass the torch to incoming president Mridula Rajagopal as the three of them reflect on their journeys with the club so far: what’s worked, what hasn’t, and their hopes and dreams for the future of Stern Chats. Join us in saying farewell to an incredible Season 17, and we’ll see you all in the fall.