Hey! My name is Avani Shah, and I am a junior transfer student majoring in Marketing at the University of Massachusetts Amherst! I am from Massachusetts and have lived here for most of my life. Some of my hobbies include hiking, kayaking, longboarding, and listening to music in my free time! I have a strong passion for photography and other forms of digital media as well. I am excited to be a part of the Admissions team and to share my experience at UMass.

What's your major?

I am currently declared as a marketing major. I have always had an interest in this field, and in business in general. I knew that I wanted to go into a field that included digital media to some extent. Marketing seemed like a balance that would allow me to learn the tangible skills I need in business, while I could also continue to grow my creative abilities.

Why did you choose UMass Amherst?

I transferred to UMass Amherst in my sophomore year and there were many factors that led me to apply and come here. I was familiar with the campus, as I have an older brother who also attended UMass. I felt like UMass had lots of opportunity within my major to explore. I am excited to get into my upper level Marketing courses, which are more specific and interesting to me. I am still looking to pair marketing with some other field, and I feel like I could explore other areas of interests alongside business at UMass. I also knew that the school allows ample opportunities for students to gain professional growth as well as experience in their field coming out of college. 

How did you meet people when you first got to UMass?

My first week at UMass felt like it flew by before I knew I was back to school. Last year when I got to campus the first people I met were my roommates. It was nice in a sense to know we were all transfers to UMass. With this, I reconnected with friends I made at orientation as well as high school friends who were on campus. I think the best way to meet people is by joining new organizations and attending events on campus. In the few events I have attended I have met other students who have been very helpful in telling me more about the campus and life here at UMass. 

How have you changed since you started at UMass?

With two years of university behind me, one being at UMass I can see many changes in myself. Especially under the circumstances of adjusting to remote learning and quarantine. I have been able to spend more time alone getting together an idea of what I want coming out of my four year experience. It has been a time for personal and professional growth and I am thankful university has allowed me to gain this experience. With joining the Admissions team and other organizations I feel like I have been able to be more vocal and express myself. I feel more focused on my career and am always seeking opportunities to learn and grow in my field.

What's your favorite thing from UMass dining?

I have been missing UMass dining a lot! The first place I will go when I am back on campus is Argo Tea. This is a little cafe located in the Southwest Residential Area. I loved visiting and getting tea with my friends there. I also love how every dining hall at UMass has sushi bars. I never knew how much I loved sushi until I tried it at UMass for one of the first times. I also love Mediterranean food as well and love going to Tavola at Blue Wall and getting the hummus bowl with falafels!