Meet The Team

Artificial Intelligence & Business Analytics

Econometrics & Quantitative Economics

Class of '27

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Helen Nga Nguyen comes from Vietnam and is currently pursuing her studies at the University of South Florida. She became part of Women in Business during her very first year on campus, motivated by her belief in empowering women and creating more pathways for them to succeed. The encouragement she received from the e-board at that time left a strong impression, inspiring her to stay actively engaged and continue giving back through the organization.

 

Outside of WIB, Helen dedicates her time to mentoring other students. She serves as a Peer Leader in both the Corporate Mentor Program and the Muma Compass Program, where she guides peers in their professional growth and personal development. While she was more widely involved in student organizations earlier in her college journey, she now focuses her efforts on these leadership positions that allow her to directly support others with the knowledge and perspective she has gained.

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Professionally, Helen had the chance to work remotely as an assistant at a garment and fashion company in Vietnam, which gave her invaluable insight into the global fashion industry. The role exposed her to many different areas like logistics, operations, quality control, accounting, and management, while also allowing her to participate in international meetings and negotiations. This wide-ranging experience strengthened her passion for fashion and affirmed her desire to pursue it as a career.

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If she were to launch her own venture, Helen would create a clothing brand that blends artistry with entrepreneurship. For her, fashion is a form of storytelling, an expression of individuality, culture, and confidence. She hopes to inspire others to see clothing as more than material, but as something that carries identity and meaning.

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In her daily life, Helen grounds herself by setting intentional goals and making time to pause, reflect, and recharge. These small practices keep her centered and ready to take on challenges. Beyond academics and work, she enjoys yoga, exploring the history and trends of fashion, and learning new skills across different fields.

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Helen is grateful for the opportunities she has found through WIB and looks forward to collaborating with her peers on the Executive Board and helping to create lasting opportunities for women who will come after her. 

Business Analytics & Information Systems

Finance

Class of '27

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Originally from Vietnam, Alice Vo is a junior double majoring in Finance and Business Analytics. She first joined Women in Business as Head of Communications during her freshman summer and now serves as the 2025-2026 Vice President. Through this role, she is dedicated to strengthening member engagement and creating meaningful opportunities for professional and personal development.

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Outside of Women in Business, Alice is a Peer Leader for the Corporate Mentor Program, where she supports first-generation students in building connections with professional mentors. This past summer, she worked as a Data Analyst Intern at PowerChord, Inc., a MarTech agency, where she contributed to the development of a healthcare scheduling platform with real-world impact. That experience deepened her passion for analytics and inspired her to pursue dynamic product roles at the intersection of technology and business.

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In her free time, Alice enjoys watching How I Met Your Mother, discovering new local boba shops and keeping up with beauty vlogs. She credits her mom as her greatest role model, whose resilience and balance between family and career continues to inspire her journey. 

Accounting

Finance

Class of '28

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Julia Hynes moved from New Jersey to study accounting, analytics, and finance at USF. She joined WIB as a freshman, looking for a supportive network and professional development opportunities. Julia, now a sophomore, is a proud student at the Judy Genshaft Honors College, using her planning skills to manage her schedule. She also serves as the Director of Fundraising for the American Marketing Association.

 

Outside of USF, she works as a manager at Richman’s Ice Cream and has found inspiration from her female boss, guiding her professional journey. Julia might be found swimming, going for walks, or baking gluten-free or other allergen free goods.

Finance (Corporate Finance)

Econometrics & Quantitative Economics

Class of '26

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Maria Ortiz is from Bogotá, Colombia, and has been a member of Women in Business since her freshman year in Fall 2022. She joined the Executive Board for the 2025–2026 year as Head of Operations. Maria was inspired to take on this role because of her passion for making an impact in the lives of young women entering male-dominated fields of business and her desire to be part of a community full of inspiring, powerful, and supportive women.

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Beyond WIB, Maria has been highly involved across campus. She joined the Investment Club as a sophomore, serving first as a Professional Development Analyst, later promoted to Director of Strategy & Logistics, then elected as Head of Executive Office in her junior year, and currently serves as an Advisor to the Board. She is also a participant in the Corporate Mentor Program and has held four on-campus positions: Orientation Leader, Composition I PASS Leader, Statistics Tutor, and Peer Advisor Leader.

 

Professionally, Maria recently completed an internship at Truist Bank as a Credit Intern. In this role, she not only refined her technical finance skills but also gained valuable exposure to risk management frameworks, industry insights, and the decision-making processes of the banking sector. This experience deepened her understanding of how to succeed as a young professional.

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Looking ahead, Maria is driven by her passion for supporting, uplifting, and empowering women in business. She aspires to use her leadership skills and professional expertise to create opportunities and foster growth for others. Outside of her academic and professional life, Maria enjoys interior design, tailoring and dressmaking, and reading. 

Business Administration​

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Class of '26

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Julia Burd is a senior studying Business Management with a strong interest in hospitality. As a transfer student from Upstate New York, she joined WIB her first semester searching for professional development and networking opportunities. Her leadership experience includes serving as an event coordinator for CHAARG, a women’s fitness organization, and a marketing associate for the Real Estate Society.

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Over the summer, Julia worked at Tru by Hilton as a front desk associate where she solidified her passion for hospitality. During the school year, she works as an Operations Intern for Gasparilla Distance Classic, professionally showcasing her event planning and management skills. Julia is an organized, creative, and driven individual, who is working towards her dream of opening an inn and event venue. One of her role models, Anna Archer, has been an inspiration to host events and create a brand for herself.

 

Outside of her daily activities, Julia enjoys working out, running, and reading. In her role in WIB, she is enthusiastic about helping others feel welcome and preparing other women to make a positive impact in the communities they serve.

Global Business

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Class of '27

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Sophia is from Puerto Rico and currently serves as the Head of Marketing. She first joined the organization her freshman year, drawn to its mission of creating a women-focused community. Through WIB, she has found a space to connect with like-minded women, learn from their experiences, and build confidence as a future leader in business.

 

In addition, Sophia is active in several organizations at USF. She is a member of the Latin Dance Club, where she connects with others through culture. Spending 2 years in the Bulls Business Community, she served as a Peer Leader, helping guide incoming freshmen through their transition into the program. She is also a member of the American Marketing Association, which has allowed her to expand her interest in marketing and strengthen her professional development. 

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Currently, Sophia works as a Social Media Associate at Absolute Marketing Solutions, a marketing agency where she combines her creativity and marketing skills by creating content, taking photos, and editing campaigns. Her dream as a business owner would be to open a bakery and also expand into house-flipping and reselling. Outside of academic and professionals, you can find Sophia at a cycling class, practicing her dance moves or reading books. 

Management

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Class of '26

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Camila Rodriguez Galindez is from Venezuela and joined Women in Business in Spring 2024. She was drawn to WIB as a place to connect with like-minded women, build friendships, and grow both personally and professionally. The community’s focus on collaboration and support has given her a space to learn, share, and develop within the business world. 

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Outside of WIB, Camila dedicates her time to her studies, managing her nail business, and spending quality time with family. As both an entrepreneur and salon manager, she enjoys the creativity of nail art as well as the leadership involved in running her business. She finds purpose in creating a welcoming environment where clients feel cared for, confident, and connected. 

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Her goals include expanding her business into a full salon, where she hopes to provide opportunities for other professionals and continue building community. She also dreams of opening a bakery and creative studio, a space to share pastries, creativity, and connection with others. 

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In her free time, Camila enjoys baking, working out, and exploring new activities or places. Her biggest inspiration comes from the women around her—her friends, sister, clients, and especially her mother. From them, she has learned ambition, resilience, and the value of education. Her mother’s example has shaped her values of love, respect, and perseverance, lessons she carries with her every day.  

Health Sciences

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Class '27

Artificial Intelligence & Business Analytics

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Class of '27

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Adilya Amantayeva is from Kazakhstan and studies at the University of South Florida. She decided to join Women in Business because she was drawn to its welcoming atmosphere and the way it brings ambitious women together to learn, grow, and support one another. For Adilya, WIB represents both professional development and genuine friendship, a balance that she deeply values.

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At USF, her involvement goes beyond WIB. She is the financial officer of the Central Asian Student Association and also serves as the Professional Development Lead for the Association for Computing Machinery. Through these roles, Adilya has been able to strengthen her leadership skills, connect with students from diverse backgrounds, and contribute to projects that blend creativity with professional growth.

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If she were to launch her own venture, Adilya envisions opening a themed restaurant where the menu would feature dishes inspired by beloved movies, cartoons, and games and bring to life the foods that many people have only ever seen on screen. On a smaller scale, something as simple as pausing for a tea break helps her recharge and return to her day with focus and calm.

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Outside of academics and leadership, Adilya enjoys skiing, reading, and watching films, often pairing her movie nights with an immediate deep dive into analysis, where she uncovers hidden details and creative choices made by directors. 

Accounting

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Class of '28

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Emma Nguyen is from Hanoi, Vietnam. She joined Women in Business to find a community where she could contribute professionally while building meaningful relationships with other women in business. She looks forward to making an impact in WIB and fostering powerful connections within the organization. 

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Beyond WIB, Emma is an Investment Banking Analyst in the Private Equity and Venture Capital Club, where she has gained deeper exposure to the investment banking industry and learned from experienced peers. She also recently completed her first in-person internship as an Accounting Intern at AASC Auditing Firm in Hanoi, Vietnam. This experience gave her valuable insights into company operations, communication, and audit processes, while also inspiring her to pursue her passion for accounting after meeting many young professionals dedicated to their work. 

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Looking ahead, Emma hopes to one day start a business providing tutoring and academic support for students. Having tutored younger learners herself, she understands the power of personalized education to build confidence, foster curiosity, and make a long-term impact on someone’s future.

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Outside of academics and professional development, Emma values health and balance, often using exercise as a way to reset, sharpen her focus, and strengthen her mindset. She also enjoys dancing, cooking, and photography. A female figure who has deeply influenced her life is her mother, whose thoughtful planning and responsibility have shaped Emma’s own values, while also teaching her the importance of stepping beyond comfort zones. 

Business Analytics & Information Systems

Finance

Class of '27

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Huyen is from Vietnam and currently serves as a Finance Analyst. She joined the organization this past summer because she values being part of a community that empowers women across different business majors. What she appreciates most about WIB is the wide variety of events and opportunities that allow her to explore different career paths, gain industry exposure, and clarify her own professional goals.

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Outside of Women in Business, Huyen is a USF tour guide, where she enjoys sharing her experiences with prospective students and their families. The role has allowed her to strengthen her communication and leadership skills while connecting with a diverse group of people. She also works as an Accountant Specialist at Perspective1, handling bookkeeping, reconciliations and accounts support. She finds fulfillment in contributing to financial accuracy and seeing the real impact of her work on the company’s operations.

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In her free time, Huyen enjoys solving Sudoku puzzles, going on runs, and catching up on rest whenever she can. 

Accounting

Artificial Intelligence & Business Analytics

Class of '28

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Swetha Vijayasankar was born in India and raised in Chile, bringing a unique international perspective to her journey at the University of South Florida. She became a member of Women in Business in June 2025, motivated by the desire to amplify women’s voices in spaces where they are often overlooked. For her, WIB represents a platform where women can step into their potential with confidence.

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Her campus involvement extends far beyond WIB. Swetha serves as the Director of Events and Logistics for the Data Science Club, contributes to research projects, participates in the Corporate Mentor Program, and will soon begin her role as a Peer Mentor. Each of these experiences allows her to build leadership skills while also supporting her peers academically and professionally.

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Professionally, Swetha gained experience through an internship with 9 Yaps, a startup advertising company. In that role, she connected with local entrepreneurs and business owners, learning about their challenges while helping them establish partnerships with the firm. What she valued most was the opportunity to interact directly with people and understand the human side of business.

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Looking ahead, Swetha dreams of creating her own venture in education, combining her passion for learning with her interest in entrepreneurship. On a day-to-day basis, keeping a clear schedule helps her stay organized and on top of her many commitments.​ Outside of academics and career goals, Swetha finds joy in singing, exploring new destinations, and immersing herself in books. She also looks to Amal Clooney as a role model, admiring her dedication to justice, advocacy, and using expertise to make a meaningful impact. 

Marketing

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Class of '28

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Bruna Cavalcanti is from Brazil and is currently pursuing her studies at the University of South Florida. She became part of Women in Business in July 2025, drawn to its mission of fostering empowerment and creating a sense of belonging among women. For Bruna, being in WIB means contributing to a purposeful community while also finding inspiration from others who share similar values.

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Alongside her involvement in WIB, Bruna also contributes to BRASA as a Marketing Analyst, where she applies her creativity and analytical skills to support the organization’s outreach and initiatives. She is also part of the Orientation Leader team at USF, a role that has been both enjoyable and rewarding. Guiding new students, sharing resources, and helping them feel welcomed has been one of the highlights of her college experience.

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If she were to launch her own venture, Bruna would focus on skincare, an area that combines wellness and self-care with business innovation. She believes that quality skincare goes beyond surface benefits: it’s about confidence, health, and daily rituals that make people feel good about themselves.

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In her week, small pleasures make a noticeable impact. Something as simple as enjoying chocolate helps her reset and find comfort amid busy days. Outside of academics, she likes to stay active through workouts, unwind with music, and spend time reading. Bruna also looks up to Taylor Swift as a role model, admiring her determination, resilience, and artistry. This influence inspires Bruna to pursue her own goals with passion and perseverance. 

Marketing

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Class of '26

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Camden Schultze is from Lincoln, Nebraska, and joined Women in Business as a member in Fall 2024. She became part of the executive board in June 2025. Camden was drawn to WIB because it offered a space to explore the business world while feeling supported and understood. She values the opportunity to connect with women who are passionate about uplifting one another and breaking barriers in business. 

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Currently, WIB is the only activity Camden is involved in on campus. Outside of the organization, she works as a digital marketer for a small healthcare company in her hometown. This role has been both exciting and rewarding, as it has given her her first professional experience in the field. Camden appreciates how much she has learned, gaining knowledge and confidence that continue to shape her career goals. 

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Looking ahead, Camden aspires to grow her career in marketing by gaining hands-on experience, developing her creativity, and using her skills to make a positive impact on others. She hopes to one day take on a leadership role where she can guide and inspire others, just as she has been inspired by the women around her.

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Her biggest role model is her mom, whose example of strength and encouragement continues to influence Camden’s ambitions. 

In her free time, Camden enjoys reading, baking, writing, and styling her curly hair—a small ritual she finds grounding, believing that a good wash day sets the tone for a good week. 

Marketing

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Class of '28

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From Pensacola, FL, Lorelei joined Women in Business in Fall 2024 to build meaningful connections within the business college and to prepare for her future career. She is also involved in Chi Omega Sorority and the American Marketing Association, where she continues to grow her leadership and networking skills.

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Lorelei enjoys staying active through pickleball and going to the gym, as well as expressing her creativity through fun crafts. She is excited to use her time in WIB to strengthen her professional skills, expand her network, and explore opportunities in the business world. 

Business Analytics & Information System

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Class of '26

Marketing

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Class of '26

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Laurent Arias is from Colombia and is currently studying Finance with a minor in Marketing at the University of South Florida. She joined Women in Business in Fall 2025, looking for a circle of ambitious women where she could exchange ideas, gain confidence, and grow as a leader. Now serving as the organization’s Director of Marketing, Laurent channels her creativity into building WIB’s presence while also strengthening her own professional network.

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Her involvement at USF extends into research and projects centered on financial literacy and community impact, as well as preparing for upcoming opportunities in finance and marketing. Beyond campus, Laurent manages operations at a dental office and runs her own marketing agency. Leading both roles has taught her how to balance strategy with creativity, and she especially enjoys using social media as a tool to help businesses thrive. One of her favorite aspects of running her agency has been collaborating with a close friend who owns a small business, which was an experience that feels both rewarding and motivating.

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Laurent describes self-care as an important part of her week, whether it’s lifting weights at the gym, enjoying a matcha break, or taking quiet time to recharge. She also stays active by exploring different Pilates and yoga classes, occasionally mixing in the challenge of CrossFit.

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When it comes to role models, Laurent finds inspiration in a close friend whose determination and discipline push her to keep striving toward her own ambitions. That sense of empowerment translates into her personal passion: helping women feel confident in academic, professional, and creative spaces. For Laurent, building community isn’t just about networking, it’s about uplifting others while continuing to grow herself. 

Artificial Intelligence & Business Analytics

Integrated Public Relations & Advertising

Class of '28

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Larissa, originally from Brazil, joined WIB in Spring 2025. WIB’s mission of empowering women aligned with Larissa’s values. Larissa is currently a sophomore studying AI and Business Analytics, as well as Integrated Public Relations and Advertising.

 

She is heavily involved on campus. Larissa serves as a marketing analyst for the Global Brazilian Student Association (BRASA) - helping with campaigns for two big conferences, is an Initiatives Specialist for BRASA Connect - the biggest Brazilian conference in Florida, and is a marketing lead for the Google Developer Group. She also knows her way around campus well, working as a tour guide at USF, marketing the university to prospective students.

 

Larissa founded a homemade breakfast basket company with her sister and mom in 2019 where she is working on new initiatives, such as personalizing the baskets. She is family-focused, finding time to call home often, specifically her mom. Larissa describes her mom as the strongest, most powerful, and most amazing woman, who shaped Larissa into the woman she is today. During her spare time, Larissa can be found spending time with her friends, watching television, or trying new restaurants.  

Marketing

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Class of '28

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From New Delhi, India, Gaurika joined Women in Business in Summer 2025, drawn by the chance to learn through workshops, connect with motivated peers, and be part of a supportive community of women helping each other grow.

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Outside of WIB, she has been active across campus as an Orientation Leader, Student Engagement Ambassador at the Digital Engagement Center, and Workshops & Social Media Manager for the USF Dance Club. She has also gained experience as an Outreach Intern with Teens4Teens and as a Housing Clerk at USF. These roles have strengthened her skills in leadership, communication, and event coordination, while keeping her connected to the USF community.

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Looking ahead, Gaurika dreams of one day running her own home décor and design business. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, painting, and trying new foods. 

Business Analytics & Information Systems

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Class of '27

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Mai Pham is originally from Vietnam and is pursuing her degree at the University of South Florida. She became involved with Women in Business in Summer 2025, drawn to its mission of building community and creating opportunities for women to grow. For Mai, joining WIB is also a way to push herself out of her comfort zone and prepare for a career in business analytics by gaining experience in leadership and collaboration.

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Alongside WIB, Mai works as a Research Assistant in the Customer Experience Lab. In this role, she contributes to projects by collecting and analyzing data, an experience that feels both exciting and challenging since it is her first time engaging in academic research. Transitioning from simply reading research papers to being part of the process has given her a new appreciation for how studies are designed and how meaningful insights are generated.

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Outside of academics, Mai hopes to one day run a maternity care center. She has seen firsthand how difficult the postpartum stage can be and wants to create a space that provides both physical and emotional support for new mothers. In her day-to-day life, she keeps her energy up by dressing well, a small habit that boosts her productivity and confidence. When she has free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, and playing games. Her biggest source of inspiration is her mother, whose example as both a parent and business owner has shaped Mai’s values of empathy, perseverance, and giving back. 

Accounting

Finance

Class of '27

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Veronica Thomas grew up in Connecticut and is pursuing a degree in Finance at the University of South Florida. She became part of Women in Business in Fall 2024 with the goal of exploring career opportunities while surrounding herself with peers who share the same drive for growth and success. For her, WIB represents both guidance and community, and she looks forward to contributing while learning from others’ experiences.

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At USF, Veronica is also involved in Gamma Iota Sigma, where she continues to build leadership skills and expand her knowledge of insurance and risk management. She is active in the Accounting Society as well, taking advantage of networking events, workshops, and resources that prepare students for the profession. Professionally, she gained hands-on experience as an Insurance Accounting Intern at New London County Mutual Insurance Company in Connecticut. There, she worked on projects involving statutory accounting principles, reconciliations, and reinsurance entries. The experience sharpened her analytical thinking and showed her how academic knowledge translates into industry practice.

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In the future, Veronica hopes to combine her love of business and community by opening a coffee shop in a major city. She envisions the space as more than just a café designed with seating that sparks conversations and events that encourage people to connect in meaningful ways. Outside of her professional focus, she enjoys hiking, camping, and reading. She also keeps a daily gratitude journal, a small habit that helps her stay positive and focused. Inspired by Elizabeth Bennet’s strength and independence, Veronica approaches her goals with confidence and resilience as she works toward a career aligned with her values. 

Finance

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Class of '26

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From Maine, Emily joined Women in Business her freshman year to surround herself with ambitious, inspiring women and to grow as a leader. She is also a member of Delta Gamma at USF, where she served as Director of E-Communications for the Delta Kappa chapter, strengthening her skills in digital communication and community engagement. 

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Emily hopes to continue developing her leadership and creative abilities to make a meaningful impact in any organization she’s part of. She finds balance through daily walks outdoors and enjoys painting, traveling, and going to the beach. Her greatest inspiration is her mom, whose resilience and compassion motivate Emily to approach challenges with confidence and determination. 

Business Analytics & Information Systems

Economics

Class of '26

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Keertana was born and raised in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and currently serves as an Operations Analyst. She became a member of Women in Business during her freshman year, eager to be surrounded by like-minded women who could provide guidance and support as she navigates college and the business world.

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Her involvement at USF extends beyond WIB. Keertana is an active member of her dance team, where she has learned how to lead and manage a diverse group of women while also finding new ways to express herself and step outside of her comfort zone. She also served on the E-Board of American Cultured Desi, an experience that strengthened her ability to collaborate and adapt to different roles.

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Inspired by her grandmother’s resilience and determination, Keertana strives to keep her head high and stay focused on her goals, no matter the challenges she encounters. Outside of classes and career goals, Keertana enjoys reading, dancing and discovering new cafés.