On May 28, 2025, students from the NYU Stern - NYU Shanghai MS Programs convened at the NYU Stern School of Business to begin their master’s academic journey. The Class of 2026 includes cohorts from the MS in Quantitative Finance (MSQF), MS in Data Analytics and Business Computing (MSDABC), MS in Marketing and Retail Science (MSMRS), and MS in Organizational Management and Strategy (MSOMS). The students came together for a full day of programming focused on building connections, engaging with faculty, and preparing for the months ahead. 

Students from all four MS programs gathered on Gould Plaza

The morning began with check-in and breakfast, followed by a warm welcome from program leadership. Program director Adam Brandenburger, Interim Dean of NYU Stern, J.P Eggers, and NYU Shanghai Dean of Business Yuxin Chen introduced the programs’ core values and goals. They also shared advice on navigating the summer term and building lasting connections. 

Adam Brandenburger, Director of the NYU Stern - NYU Shanghai MS Programs

To foster early bonds and relationship-building, students played a fast-paced icebreaker designed to spark conversation and help students discover shared experiences and interests with their new classmates. The energy carried over into the campus-wide scavenger hunt, which gave teams the opportunity to explore Stern’s facilities, the NYU campus, and surrounding neighborhood while engaging in light competition. These activities established a sense of community and liveliness that will carry students through the year. 

Students participating in the icebreaker activity 

A highlight of this year’s orientation was the NYU Mini Talks. In five short lectures from Stern professors, students were introduced to the wide-ranging ideas they’ll encounter during the program. Rob Salomon, Professor of International Management at NYU Stern and Dean of Stern at NYU Abu Dhabi, discussed the evolving role of globalization in business. Raghu Sundaram, Senior Vice-Chancellor and Head of Global Strategy, offered deep insights on NYU’s global strategy. Cynthia Franklin, Executive Director of the Berkley Center for Entrepreneurship, introduced entrepreneurial thinking and early-stage innovation. Christian Grewell, Clinical Associate Professor of Technology, Operations, and Statistics, explored the influence of AI and innovation. Beth Briggs, Dean of Students for the NYU Stern MBA & Graduate Programs, closed the session by grounding the day in a discussion on belonging and the importance of building inclusive spaces.

Rob Salomon, Professor of International Management at NYU Stern and Dean of Stern at NYU Abu Dhabi

Raghu Sundaram, Senior Vice-Chancellor and Head of Global Strategy for NYU

Cynthia Franklin, Executive Director of the Berkley Center for Entrepreneurship at NYU Stern

Christian Grewell, Clinical Associate Professor of Technology, Operations, and Statistics at NYU Stern

Beth Briggs, Dean of Students, NYU Stern MBA & Graduate Programs

The afternoon activities included an interactive discussion on Empathy in Action, led by Victor Mullin, Senior Associate Dean for Diversity and Inclusion, a session on building a strong MS culture, led by program director Adam Brandenburger, an overview of NYU resources, and a group trivia game that mixed fun with useful information about NYU and New York city.

Before closing, students joined a virtual alumni panel featuring Rita G. (MSOMS ‘25), Krystal L. (MSMRS ‘24), and Dakota S. (MSDABC ‘22), who reflected on their experiences and offered practical advice on making the most of the program.

The day concluded with a happy hour at a local restaurant, where students enjoyed food and drinks while relaxing and connecting.

With a full summer of academics, events, and learning ahead in New York, the Class of 2026 has already begun their transformative year. In September, students will continue their studies at NYU Shanghai’s Qiantan campus, bringing the community and momentum into the next chapter of their journey. 

Students enjoying their first day at NYU Stern