Yaniv Bazini: Integrating Finance, Entrepreneurship, and a Championship Mindset

For Yaniv Bazini, the Grossman School of Business was more than a place to study finance and entrepreneurship—it was where he learned to lead, stay disciplined, and excel under pressure, both in business and on the field.

As a standout player for the University of Vermont’s men’s soccer team, Bazini played a central role in the Catamounts’ historic 2024 NCAA Championship season. He started all 24 matches, scored a team-high 14 goals, and earned recognition on the NCAA All-Tournament Team, United Soccer Coaches All-American Third Team, and more. His performance not only landed him in the record books but also showcased his ability to deliver in high-stakes situations.

Off the field, Bazini brought that same focus to the classroom. His finance coursework built a strong foundation in data-driven decision-making, while his entrepreneurship theme encouraged innovation and big-picture thinking. He balanced athletics and academics by using campus resources and leaning on support from faculty.

After graduation, Bazini signed a professional contract with South Georgia Tormenta FC, launching his career in pro soccer. Whether analyzing financial markets or game strategies, he continues to approach each opportunity with a mindset built for success.

Nicole Bonanno: Navigating the Future of Accounting with Data and Global Perspective

Nicole Bonanno’s journey at the Grossman School of Business was shaped by her interest in accounting and how data is transforming the field. She pursued a double concentration in accounting and business analytics, along with a global business theme, to prepare for today’s evolving financial world.

Her curiosity and drive led her to internships with DeSimone Consulting Engineers, Johnson Lambert, and KPMG, each building her skills and confidence. She was accepted into KPMG’s Master of Accounting with Data and Analytics (MADA) Scholar program, where she’ll attend graduate school at Alabama State University while preparing for the CPA exam.

Bonanno also held leadership roles as vice president of academics and professional development for Kappa Delta and the National Panhellenic Conference. These experiences strengthened her communication and mentoring abilities—skills she’ll bring with her to KPMG’s Stamford office after graduation, where she’ll work as an audit associate.

Her advice? “Go to office hours—even if you don’t have questions. Professors have incredible stories and industry insight. Those connections can open doors you didn’t even know existed.”

Colin Cheshire: Finding Career Clarity Through Finance, Analytics, and Global Experience

Colin Cheshire found clarity in his career path through conversation. During his early days at the Grossman School of Business, he sought advice from alumni, professors, and upperclassmen, helping him discover his passion for finance and business analytics.

His interest deepened after studying abroad at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona in Spain, where he explored global business themes and developed a fascination with financial markets. “Talk to students who’ve studied abroad and keep an open mind,” he says. “You’ll grow in ways you can’t anticipate.”

At the University of Vermont, Cheshire joined the Grossman Student Advisory Committee’s Events Subcommittee, helped organize programs like the concentration panel and trivia night, and stayed involved in club soccer and the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. One of his most valued resources was the alumni network. “Connecting with someone in Beta Gamma Sigma who also went to the University of Vermont gives you a great foundation,” he says.

After graduation, Cheshire will begin his career as a national advisor consultant with Columbia Threadneedle Investments in Boston, where he plans to blend technical finance skills with his people-first mindset. His advice: “Talk to people. It’s never too early to start figuring out what excites you—at the University of Vermont and beyond.”

Layla Esrey: Leading Sustainability in Marketing and Innovation

Layla Esrey’s commitment to environmental and social responsibility led her to pursue a concentration in marketing with a theme in sustainability at the Grossman School of Business (GSB). This unique combination reflects her desire to drive meaningful change through business practices that prioritize both people and the planet.

As the co-founder of Plant Futures, a student-led organization focused on transforming the global food system through regenerative agriculture, Esrey has dedicated herself to advancing sustainability in the food industry. In addition to her leadership role in Plant Futures, she is gaining valuable experience as a marketing and sales intern at Fourbital Factory/4T2D, a Burlington-based company that produces 100% of their high-quality apparel locally. This internship has provided her with an opportunity to apply her classroom learning to real-world business challenges, further strengthening her skills in sustainable business practices.

Esrey’s study abroad experience at Windesheim University in Zwolle, the Netherlands, greatly expanded her perspective. “The experience of studying abroad allowed me to immerse myself in a new culture, which deepened my understanding of global sustainability challenges and solutions,” she says. She encourages fellow students to embrace the many opportunities that University of Vermont offers: “Challenge yourself, step outside your comfort zone, and say yes to experiences that will expand your horizons.”

Looking ahead, Esrey plans to work in regenerative agriculture in New Zealand, where she hopes to continue making a positive impact on the global food system and advance her passion for sustainability in business.

Caroline Fox: Embracing Marketing, Culture, and Leadership Across Borders

From her first semester at the University of Vermont’s Grossman School of Business, Caroline Fox knew marketing was her calling. Drawn to its blend of creativity and strategy, she paired her marketing concentration with a global business theme to explore her passion for culture and travel.

That curiosity led her to study abroad twice in Greece and the Czech Republic. Fox encourages classmates to chase their dream destinations: “Don’t limit yourself,” she says. “Business students have the flexibility to study almost anywhere—take advantage of that.”

On campus, Fox made her mark as president of the Catamount Innovation Fund, mentoring student-run businesses and connecting them with funding and industry experts. She also served as senior lead coordinator for the Schlesinger Global Family Enterprise Case Competition (SG-FECC), managing event logistics and ambassador recruitment, earning an Outstanding Contributor Award. Her love of brand storytelling came alive as a marketing and communications intern for GSB, where she crafted content to shape the school’s image. As the head of event planning for the Grossman Student Advisory Committee and a Grossman ambassador, Fox organized professional events and welcomed prospective students into the GSB community.

Now in her final semester, Fox reflects on how quickly time has flown. “College goes by in the blink of an eye,” she says. “Say “yes” to the club meetings, the ski trips, the study sessions—do it all. You’ll thank yourself later.”

Uschi Larson: Shaping a Sustainable Future Through Finance and Global Leadership

Uschi Larson’s concentration in the finance and sustainability theme at the University of Vermont’s Grossman School of Business (GSB) has been the perfect blend of her passion for business and desire to make a positive impact on the world. Larson dove into every opportunity she could get her hands on during her time here, from leadership roles to those that helped shape her global perspective.

Studying abroad at Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, Morocco, gave Larson a deeper understanding of both business and culture. "Studying abroad opened my eyes to new perspectives,” she says. “I traveled all over Morocco and formed meaningful relationships with locals and fellow exchange students. I’d encourage others to step outside their comfort zone and dive into new experiences like I did.”

Larson’s campus involvement was equally impactful. As co-president of the Grossman Student Advisory Committee (GSAC) and a GSB ambassador, she strengthened her leadership skills while fostering connections with peers, faculty, and staff. "Get involved as much as you can even if you find out it’s something that you don’t enjoy. You’ll learn something valuable through every investment," Larson says. 

Post-graduation, Larson plans to take a road trip across Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada with friends before returning to Burlington to join the Financial Career Development Rotational Program at National Life Group. She’s excited to apply her finance knowledge and passion for sustainability to her future career, blending her expertise with her commitment to making a difference.

Annabel Resor: Turning Data into Impact Through Sustainability and Analytics

Annabel Resor’s time at the Grossman School of Business was defined by her drive to make a difference through data. With a concentration in business analytics and a theme in sustainable business, she discovered the perfect blend of strategy and storytelling.

Resor also pursued a degree in environmental studies through the Rubenstein School, allowing her to explore sustainability from both scientific and business perspectives. Her study abroad in Bhutan with the School for Field Studies brought these lessons to life through hands-on research on land use, mountain ecology, and socio-political relationships with the environment. “It was one of the most incredible experiences,” she says. “Embrace every moment.”

On campus, Resor served as president of the University of Vermont Squash Club and Diversity in Business, and she was active in the Outing Club and Beta Gamma Sigma. These experiences allowed her to foster community, explore leadership, and advocate for inclusion.

Looking ahead, she hopes to bring her skills in analytics and sustainability to the life sciences field, especially in the pharmaceutical industry. Her advice to incoming students: “Sign up for TREK. You’ll come back with unforgettable stories and friendships that last your entire college experience. And don’t be afraid to ask questions—putting yourself out there will take you far.”

Ethan Ryen: Leveraging Global Insights for Leadership and Success

Ethan Ryen’s time at the Grossman School of Business has been a perfect blend of academics and extracurricular endeavors. With a concentration in business analytics and a theme in global business, Ethan took his education beyond the classroom by studying abroad at Universidad de Carlos III Madrid (UC3M) in Spain. The experience broadened his global perspective and helped connect his coursework with real-world international business insights.

On campus, Ryen was deeply involved in leadership roles, serving as vice president of the Grossman Case Competition Association (GCCA) and a lead coordinator for SG-FECC’s judges and sponsorship sub-committee. He also competed in case competitions like the Engineering and Commerce Case Competition and the Business Management Case Competition .

Last summer, Ryen gained hands-on experience as a product development intern in New York City at Versana—a fintech company transforming the syndicated loan market with real-time data and workflow automation. He’s set to return full-time after graduation.

“Take advantage of every opportunity—whether it’s studying abroad, internships, or campus involvement,” Ryen says. “College is about expanding your experiences and making connections that will last a lifetime.”

Tom Statham: Balancing Accounting, Entrepreneurship, and Outdoor Adventures

Tom Statham’s decision to major in accounting and entrepreneurship was a natural fit, combining his love for logic and numbers with his dream of one day owning a ski store. His entrepreneurial spirit has been a driving force throughout his college journey, with a clear vision for his future.

Statham immersed himself in both academic and extracurricular activities. He served as an ambassador for the Ski and Snowboard Club (SSC), Vice President of Finance for Phi Mu Delta, and was an active member of the Alpine Ski Racing Club (ASRC). “SSC rail jams and the Homegrown Film Festival have been incredible experiences, both competing and helping set up,” Statham shares. Though he’s not a competitive skier, joining ASRC has introduced him to some of his closest friends and allowed him to improve his skiing skills.

This summer, Statham will intern with PwC in Boston, working in the Digital Assurance and Transparency (DAT) department. Afterward, he’ll return to the University of Vermont to complete the Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program and enjoy one more ski season in Vermont. 

“Make time to do fun things!” he says. “Vermont is an outdoor playground, and it’s the perfect place to try new activities. I picked up mountain biking and backcountry skiing during my first year, and it’s been a great way to unwind and meet new people.” 

Ally Updegrove: Building Business Connections to Fuel Entrepreneurial Success

When Ally Updegrove arrived at the Grossman School of Business, she knew she wanted to study marketing for its mix of creativity and strategic thinking, however, she decided to pursue a global business theme that truly set her apart, blending seamlessly with her Spanish minor. As co-president of the Grossman Student Advisory Committee (GSAC), Updegrove embraced every opportunity to connect with faculty, professors, and peers—relationships that became the foundation for her future success.

In September 2024, Updegrove became part of Campus Storage Solutions, a company co-founded by fellow Grossman students Ethan Israel and Logan Vaughan. As co-founder and chief marketing officer, Updegrove played a key role in the company’s success, helping them secure the prestigious Joy and Jerry Meyers Cup, along with $225K in funding to launch their innovative business in Vermont. She plans to continue leading the company after graduation.

Updegrove’s experience at the University of Vermont has shaped her entrepreneurial journey, and her advice to others is clear: Get involved. “Joining GSAC gave me meaningful relationships with faculty and friends that I wouldn’t have had otherwise,” she says. “College is the perfect time to dive into everything that excites you. You never know where it will take you.”

Owen Venturelli: Navigating Accounting, Analytics, and Global Leadership

Owen Venturelli’s time at the Grossman School of Business has been all about embracing leadership and global experiences. With a double concentration in accounting and business analytics, along with a global business theme, Owen loves analyzing companies from different lenses and learning how they’re navigating globalization. Studying abroad in Madrid, Spain, at Universidad de Carlos III Madrid (UC3M) gave him a fresh, global perspective on business, while immersing him in a new culture and way of thinking.

On campus, Venturelli’s stepped up as the student lead coordinator for competition, recruitment, and IT for SG-FECC, sharpening his leadership skills and building meaningful connections. His advice to students is simple: “Get involved! Being an active part of GSB clubs helps you connect with peers, professors, and industry leaders—and opens doors to internships, case competitions, and so much more!”

After graduation, Venturelli is heading to PwC in Boston to kickstart his career in tax accounting where he’ll put his global mindset and leadership skills to work.

About the Author:
Amanda Anderson ’22 is the student success advisor and engagement specialist at the University of Vermont’s Grossman School of Business, where she supports more than 1,000 undergraduate students through advising and digital storytelling. She leads the school’s social media strategy, creating content that highlights student experiences and builds community. From event coverage to spotlights, Amanda is passionate about helping every student feel seen and celebrated.