Shohsei Oda, '13

Shohsei Oda, '13

March 18, 2013
Where Are You Heading? Class of 2013

What was your most valuable experience while at University of Richmond?
If I had to pick one, I would say that my experience with the Sophomore Scholars In Residence program was perhaps the most valuable. To live with a community of peers who are just as interested in such a specific academic topic was very encouraging and exciting, not to mention fun. Also, to have a professor so passionate about the issues being discussed and so invested in your success as a student was inspiring. The combined components of in-class lectures and discussions, research, and travel really provided an all-encompassing approach to learning, which I truly appreciated.

What is your next step after graduation and what led to this opportunity?
I will be working for Deloitte Consulting as a Strategy & Operations Federal Analyst in Washington, D.C. I interned with the firm last summer to fulfill a requirement for my leadership studies major and was fortunate enough to receive a full-time job offer at the end of the internship. I would not have been able to have this opportunity had it not been for the support of the Jepson School of Leadership Studies and the Office of Alumni and Career Services.

What do you wish you knew earlier, while at UR?
I wish I had known to get more widely involved from earlier on in my time at UR – there are so many opportunities to be an engaged college student here! Although I have taken advantage of several of these opportunities by now, had I been more proactive at the beginning, I would have been able to spend more time with these engagements. It’s definitely a great way to meet good people, stay active in the community, and enjoy yourself.

What is one piece of advice for current students?
As cliché as it sounds, I would tell students to be aware of how quickly four years fly by. Make sure you’re working towards your goals, nurturing meaningful friendships, taking risks, and having a good time. Cherish your time here because it will be over before you know it.

What do you most look forward to in your life post-UR?
I feel very fortunate to be able to start my career with a position that is truly purposeful in creating effective and meaningful change in the country. I look forward to being challenged in new territories, whether it’s at work or in my personal life. Being completely independent will be a great new experience with its own trials and rewards. It’s pretty exciting to think about the different possible directions that my life could take, but I feel prepared and am eager to continue learning.