My name is Ari Kalinsky. I am a first-year student here at Pitt, and I am from Long Island, New York. Here at Pitt, I am a member of Zeta Beta Tau, a social fraternity. In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym and hanging out with friends. I love traveling and immersing myself in new cultures, so I am very excited about Plus3! In the past, I have been to Italy, Greece, Iceland and Canada. I am cannot wait to add Cyprus to that list!
Shifting to a professional lens, I am an industrial engineering (IE) student here at Pitt. Eventually, I plan on using my degree to get into a consulting or engineering management position. I am a member of the Bolivia team of Engineers without Borders (EWB)– I don’t have a role in EWB yet but I am hoping to have one soon. I have also been involved with research in the Mathematics department.
Why I Chose Plus3 Cyprus
Plus3 Cyprus has both a personal and professional appeal. Of course, who doesn’t love good weather! Knowing I will be on a beach in Cyprus is what will get me through finals week! And of course, I cannot wait for some Mediterranean food.
But more importantly, Plus3 Cyprus falls right in line with my career goals. IE as a discipline is at the intersection of business and engineering. Being an industrial engineer means finding practical/economical solutions for different (business) scenarios by applying mathematical and technical skills (of an engineer). Plus3 Cyprus, as a program for business and engineering, embodies this intersection almost perfectly.
As a global leader in the shipping management industry, Cyprus is a hub of complex global supply chains. The principles of IE is essential to optimizing and managing global supply chains; Cyprus’ role in the supply chain makes it a prime location to witness and understand IE’s impact on the global economy. In sum, Plus3 will allow me to see how IE fits into the world before I dive into my major-specific coursework next year. I hope for Plus3 to give me a deeper understanding and appreciation for the field I plan on spending my career in.
Three things I have learned from pre-departure class
- Cypriots have a reputation for showing up late to social gatherings, but this social norm does not apply to business meetings!
- Cyprus has a much more formal culture than the US, business attire is expected at professional meetings.
- Cypriots are wonderful hosts! They are very friendly and welcoming. So much so that past Plus3 students have even been invited to the homes of locals.
