Dream, Commit, Pursue... Accomplish it — Proud to be a Buckeye!

Everything that has a beginning has end... and what a feeling it is to look back on your own path, feeling grateful about the hard choices you made and appreciating both the journey and the accomplishments along the way.

I’m thrilled to share the conclusion of a special chapter in my life: I just graduated from the Specialized Master in Finance at The Ohio State University’s Fisher College of Business. What a journey it has been!

Many would say that what really mattered was taking the first step. Others might say that persistence was the key. And there are those who believe that it was not about starting or finishing it – but whether we enjoyed the journey. If you asked me, I’d say it's all true. But the essence lies beneath it all.

What defines you is what you do about the things you believe in. What molds you is a combination of how boldly you allow yourself to dream and how courageously you choose to focus your actions on the pursuit of your objectives — despite the risks or the fear of failure. Ultimately, the way you face obstacles — acting with integrity and strength, whether at the beginning, the end, or anywhere along the journey — reveals the kind of person you truly are. The final goal is to do it all with joy.

These last few weeks have been intense — and yes, you’d be right to ask yourself, “Wasn’t the entire program?” But this time, it’s not just about the final assignments we had to complete, or the long hours we devoted to them. It’s about the overall accomplishments. They’re not just prizes — they represent the crowning of all the effort, dedication, and hard choices one makes throughout a journey like this.

As you may have noticed, I’m feeling a little philosophical. I hope you’ll agree it’s fair — given all the emotions that have built up along the way and are now surfacing in a brief moment of silence and inner peace, the kind that usually hides between the chapters of our lives. So, please bear with me a little longer. You might find something in my experience that will help you build your own.

To summarize these accomplishments, let me take a moment to celebrate and share that I served as President of the Council for the Specialized Master in Finance Class of 2025; I achieved a top 10% GPA among a highly talented and driven cohort of colleagues; I was honored to have my story featured on the Commencement Website; and I had the privilege of being on stage at the closing ceremony of “Time and Change: The Ohio State Campaign” at the Schottenstein Center — a campaign that raised $5.4 billion to support OSU’s research, scholarships, and programs. I’m truly thankful for all of these milestones and the journey that made them possible.

When I was invited to participate in the “Time and Change” ceremony, I had no idea how big it would be. It took place in the main arena of the Schottenstein Center — a venue where many world-famous artists have performed. Name a singer or a band, and chances are they’ve stood in the same dressing rooms I shared with two other outstanding students from The Ohio State University: Sarah Al-Hashemi and Shadow Montag, who also shared their amazing stories. I believe this was one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had so far, and I’d love to share part of my speech with you, as it captures many of the values I hold dear.

“Tonight, we’d like to remind you that when you choose to make a generous gesture to support others, you are not only supporting their education… you are becoming part of their stories and their dreams.

My story is about committing to what you believe and the willingness to accept the risks. I began my professional journey as a Dental Surgeon, but despite being dedicated and achieving a couple of relevant degrees, I soon realized that my calling was somewhere else – in business and finance. Not an easy change, as you can imagine. But I chose to move forward and pursue my new career.

As I made the transition, I also chose to use my knowledge for the good of others. I provided treatment for a few thousand patients who couldn’t afford it and performed hundreds of oral surgeries to help those in need. So, as I closed that chapter of my life, I felt fulfilled. I especially owe that feeling to the smiles and gratitude of those patients.

I progressed in my business path. I achieved my bachelor’s in business administration, a graduate degree in Management and Banking, and an MBA degree. For several years, I held good positions in a great company, when I realized it was time for my new leap of faith.

It’s important to never forget that if you want to be part of the change you want you to see in the world, you must continuously seek more… and I knew I wanted to go further!

This time I had greater reasons to push this forward. I wanted to leave a legacy for my daughters. I wanted them to know that nothing should stand in the way of their dreams. And I wanted them to see what it was like to truly commit yourself to something you believe in.

» I believe that together we can build a better world. I believe we are bound to this responsibility. And, as Buckeyes, I believe we are prepared for the task. «

So… I dared to dream big dreams and others dared to support my story; many without even knowing it, and here we are. From the bottom of my heart, I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me during this journey.

I thank all the dedicated faculty who always pushed us to the next level. I thank the Graduate Programs Office team, especially Jerrod Amstutz, Chris Adams, Rob Chabot, and Paul North, for giving me the opportunity to work by their sides as a Graduate Assistant during this year, which was crucial for bringing me to where I am. And I thank all the donors for their altruistic gestures that make stories like mine possible.

I deeply thank my family for their continued support. My mother, who has taught me, through her example, the meaning of determination and resilience. My father for always believing in my potential. My dear sisters, who helped me in so many ways and situations, both before and during my time at OSU.

And I especially thank my wife, a true companion, who chose to make this journey her own, leaving so much behind and standing by my side through all the challenges.

Above all, I thank God  — I hope I've earned it!

“Leaving a legacy requires commitment. And to pursue a dream, we must give it our all.” – I dedicate this journey and my accomplishments to those I rise and stand each day; driven by the love we share."

To my daughters Julia and Sofia