Fall 2025 brought a season of learning, exploration, and connection for students across the MS programs. From engaging with global industry leaders to discovering new corners of Shanghai together, the semester blended academic depth with real-world experiences and a strong sense of community.
In the Classroom: Engaging with Experts and Learning Through Practice
This fall, students took advanced courses taught by experienced faculty and learned from industry experts through a series of guest lectures. Guest speakers from organizations including Costco, Davidson Kempner, Google, and Gucci joined classes to share insights on leadership, markets, and the changing global business landscape.
Students also began their capstone projects, collaborating in small groups with companies across different industries. These projects offered an early opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real business challenges.
Students learning firsthand from an expert from the merchandising team at Costco.
Beyond Classroom: Experiential Learning Through Company Visits
Throughout the semester, students stepped outside the classroom to visit companies such as Ant Group, Dow Chemical, Lego, Tesla, Uniqlo, and the Mars Royal Canin factory. These visits provided a firsthand look at the working environment of the organizations, emerging market trends, and the stories behind some of the world’s most influential brands.
Students visiting Ant International.
Students visiting Dow Chemical.
Students visiting the factory of Royal Caning.
Advancing Career Goals with Ongoing Support
Students continued to build their professional foundations through one-on-one advising sessions with the Center for Career Development, targeted career workshops, and employer recruitment events. Whether exploring career paths or preparing for interviews, students received ongoing guidance tailored to their goals.
Enhancing Connections with Alumni
The semester included multiple touchpoints with alumni from the MS programs specifically, other NYU Stern programs, and the broader NYU community. Students joined a casual lunch chat, a panel on careers in the age of AI, and a finance-focused networking mixer where they connected with alumni working across a broad range of industries.
The new 2025–2026 Alumni Council was also launched this fall, bringing together 18 alumni committed to supporting student engagement and strengthening the MS community.
Current students at the networking mixer with alumni in the finance industry.
Building Community through Social and Cultural Activities
Beyond academics, students enjoyed a range of social and cultural activities—
from pumpkin carving and a day trip to Shanghai Disneyland, to discovering art at the historic Rong Zhai residence. Cohort leaders also hosted informal outings that helped students connect across programs and form friendships throughout the semester.
MS students visiting Shanghai Disneyland.
Looking Ahead
After a full and rewarding semester, students will take a three-week break before returning for an intensive J-term course in January. The upcoming term will offer new opportunities for learning, collaboration, and community growth.