Photo by Elena Olivo

A desire to live in the big city and attend an institution with a strong business school made Michael Jeneralczuk’s decision to attend Baruch an easy one. And a Nadja Fidelia Scholarship for 2011-12 made that choice possible.

Jeneralczuk’s first year at Baruch has been an opportunity to map out his college career and “to set my academic goals.” Actuarial science and financial analysis are the fields that appeal to him most. After he graduates, he hopes to establish a strong career in the world of finance, and he plans to get there through hard work, discipline, and undergraduate internships. (Along the way, he plans to play Bearcats basketball too.)

His freshman year has given him life skills he didn’t know he’d need. “The toughest thing was adjusting to my independence; and in New York City, it’s even more challenging,” says Jeneralczuk, originally from Amherst, M.A. “You are forced to manage your time wisely, to plan for activities.” Even learning the subway system was an education. “Meeting these daily tasks is what will help make me more successful in the long run,” he realizes.

He’s also learned valuable lessons about networking and just plain asking for help. “I am grateful for the help I’ve received from many staff members and my suitemate, Jacob Kelman (also a freshman), who’s helped me learn about networking and getting involved with campus groups. I am very interested in getting more involved next year,” he adds.

The freshman is also grateful to his patron: “I want to thank Ms. Fidelia for her support and continued efforts to better the lives of Baruch students and to propel their careers forward,” he says. “Support like hers is the key to continuing Baruch’s success in the business field.”

—Manny Romero

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