CSU celebrates graduating students who have overcome obstacles, made significant achievements or are fulfilling Cleveland State University¡¯s mission in or outside the classroom.

Today, we celebrate Priya Saini ¡¯24.

CSU: Have you had any significant internships/co-ops/careers while at CSU?

PS: While at CSU, I had the opportunity to discover The Entrepreneurship Organization, which helped me grow both personally and professionally. I also gained valuable experience as a business development manager at Party D¨¦cor and as a sales and events intern at Hotel Cleveland, Autograph Collection Marriott.

CSU: How would you describe the connections you have made with the faculty and staff at CSU?

PS: My time at CSU was truly shaped by the incredible connections I made with both faculty and staff. They not only provided guidance and mentorship but also created an environment where I felt inspired to push myself and pursue my passions. The support and encouragement I received from the staff were pivotal in allowing me to take on projects like founding The Entrepreneurship Organization and pursuing opportunities I might not have otherwise considered.

Professors Brad Michael Fellows, Daniel Kaminsky and Alexandra Sukhoy have designed an environment to foster my personal development. In addition to the support I received from academic advisors Tonisha Glover and John Camargo, they both never gave up on ensuring that my obstacles that were presented could be overcome. I genuinely believe that the faculty and staff at CSU gave me the confidence and resources to do what I did, and their belief in me fueled my desire to learn and grow every day.

CSU: How has Cleveland State inspired you for your future?

PS: Starting at Cleveland State at the age of 15, I felt like a sponge, eager to absorb everything around me. The university provided an environment where I could be curious, ask questions, and grow both personally and professionally. The faculty and staff inspired me with their knowledge, passion, and commitment to student success. They helped shape my understanding of what it means to pursue my goals with purpose and perseverance. Cleveland State didn¡¯t just teach me academic knowledge, it encouraged me to think critically, take risks, and be bold in pursuing my future. It¡¯s this foundation, along with the constant support from those around me, that has inspired me to aim higher and pursue a future where I can make a meaningful impact.

CSU: How do you think you have fulfilled the CSU¡¯s mission?  

PS: I¡¯ve been truly blessed to be raised in a diverse household, with both my Romanian and Punjabi heritage shaping my perspective and empowering me to embrace different cultures and ideas. This unique upbringing has fueled my drive to empower others and create knowledge in meaningful ways. One of the most impactful opportunities I encountered at Cleveland State was through the College Credit Plus (CCP) program. CCP which allowed me to earn college credits while still in high school and ultimately obtain my bachelor¡¯s degree at just 17 years old. This experience not only opened doors for my academic journey but also inspired me to continue learning and growing.

After graduation, I sought to deepen my knowledge further and earned my master¡¯s degree just a few months later, in the same year. Though I am young, I firmly believe I am part of the next generation that will help shape the world around me, and Cleveland State has played a crucial role in preparing me for that responsibility. The opportunities and support I¡¯ve received at CSU have given me the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make a meaningful impact. I am deeply grateful for everything I¡¯ve learned and the person I¡¯ve become, and I know this is just the beginning of what I will contribute to the world.

Congratulations, Priya!