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Pramshu Peri — PR Specialist, Motorsports Activation

A pre-GPT era writer who embraces AI. Communications specialist and RIT master’s candidate with collectively 4+ years of experience across agency PR, journalism and in-house content writing. Most recently driving sponsor activations for a NASCAR driver.

Resume and Other Links

If you’re in a rush and can’t spare about six minutes to know me, I get it! My cat usually schedules me for three before demanding food. Here’s where you can grab the essentials: my resume, portfolio, and LinkedIn.

However, those same six minutes are actually a good investment: they’ll save you from slogging through a templated cover letter, and save me from pretending I enjoy writing one. In return, you’ll get a quick sense of my PR/communications work, my experience with NASCAR sponsor activations, and how I turn complex ideas into clean, usable stories.

Who is this guy?

I’m a communications specialist, or as my parents like to call it, “he writes rubbish on the internet and somehow gets paid.”

I started out as a journalist in Bangalore, reporting on startups and tech; basically asking CEOs why they were losing millions, then editing their responses into something that sounded smart.

Then I freelanced: gaming, real estate, energy… If it existed, I had a take.

Next entered my Public Relations stint at The Practice (Bangalore), where I handled Lenovo, Amazon, Bosch, and Texas Instruments among other major corporations. I made the C-suite sound insightful, slipped their bylines into marquee Indian outlets.

I also worked on India’s official investment portal, Indbiz.gov.in, which was like running the world’s most stressful blog. Imagine trying to write about FDI trends while knowing one punctuation error could cause an international incident.

Somewhere in between, I worked as a copywriter for an EV battery company, managing to get people to ‘like’ lithium-ion posts on LinkedIn.

Wanting to move from just writing stories to shaping them strategically, I came to the US for pursuing a Master’s degree in Communication at Rochester Institute of Technology. And that’s where motorsports took me over: first with the Formula SAE racing team, and now interning with a NASCAR driver, building sponsor decks, pitching brands, and solving core communication problems as my Capstone.

What I bring to the table

I know how to work both sides of the media equation. As a journalist, I learned what makes a story worth reading. As a PR professional, I learned what makes it worth publishing.

From op-eds to press releases to white papers, I know how to shape ideas into something an editor will actually open, not just archive. How? By grounding the story in data, framing it around current industry conversations, and making sure the angle serves both the client’s goals and the outlet’s audience. It’s about giving editors something they can run with immediately—a piece that informs, adds perspective, and doesn’t read like recycled corporate jargon (also, I’ve been using em and en dashes before LLMs made them a widespread thing).

Motorsports/Automobiles is where my skills and passion intersect. Formula SAE taught me how to build a brand presence from the ground up, balancing technical storytelling with sponsor visibility. NASCAR taught me how to pitch partnerships and activate them under tight deadlines, where every campaign has to perform as fast as the sport itself.

At the table, that means you’ll get someone who can:

  • Turn complexity into clarity without draining the personality out of a story.
  • Build narratives that connect brand goals with audience attention spans.
  • Juggle high stakes without dropping the details (yes, even the commas).
  • Adapt across industries, whether it’s fintech, EV batteries, or the fast lane of racing.

In short: I bring stories that stick, strategies that scale, and just enough humor to keep things human.

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Nick Prescott – MBA Candidate, Entrepreneur, Real Estate Investor.

Hi, I’m Nicholas Prescott. I’m currently pursuing my MBA at Rochester Institute of Technology, where I’m expanding on my business administration degree from SUNY Brockport. I’ve always been drawn to business management and the process of transforming ideas into real-world applications. One of my favorite projects at Brockport was researching Kodak’s rise and fall for my honors thesis—it truly emphasized the crucial role of strategy and timing in business.


My Journey So Far
Learning from hands-on projects has been a game-changer for me. I got my start with a firewood business, which gave me a crash course in running operations and dealing with customers. From there, I ventured into e-commerce, experimenting with various marketing and sales strategies online. Most recently, I’ve become involved in real estate—buying, managing, and renovating properties, and evaluating their long-term financial potential. Each project has taught me something new about problem-solving and perseverance. I’ve also gained experience through more traditional roles. At Schuler-Haas Electric, I worked on a solar construction project that provided me with a front-row seat to observe teamwork in large-scale operations.


Where I’m Headed
Right now, I’m most passionate about asset management and real estate. These fields blend the analytical side of finance with the strategic, big-picture thinking I love. In the future, I envision myself continuing to grow in these areas, whether that involves managing investments, developing real estate projects, or seeking out opportunities that combine financial and community value.


Outside of Work
When I’m not focused on school or work, I enjoy spending time with friends and hitting the open road. I like driving cars, riding motorcycles, and working on vehicles in my home garage. I’ve set up both an auto shop and a wood shop, so there’s usually some project to keep me busy. And when I want to relax, I enjoy playing video games, watching Netflix, or working on other creative projects.

Download Nick Prescott’s Resume Here

Download Nick Prescott’s Honors Thesis: The Rise and Fall of Kodak: A Case Study on Market Shifts and
Business Strategy

Connect with Nick on LinkedIn

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SEMA

Marcelo Figueroa – MBA Student

About me

Thank you for visiting my website. Let me tell you a little bit more about myself:

I am an international student from El Salvador and arrived to the US in 2017 with a scholarship to pursue an undergraduate degree at the University of Rochester. I got my degree in Psychology and also had coursework in Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science. My humanities background is focused in music, which I pursue as a hobby.

After I graduated in 2021, I worked Logistics and Human Resources at a food distribution company for 1-year as part of my OPT (Optical Training). I then started my MBA with a scholarship at the Rochester Institute of Technology, which I’m finishing in Fall 2025. The MBA has given me foundational understanding of Finance, Economics, Supply Chain Management, Marketing, Accounting, Management, and Business Analytics. I’m also doing additional coursework in Project Management, Buyer’s Behavior, Business Innovation, and Ethics of AI.

I am committed to being an accomplished professional and invaluable asset if you believe I am a good fit for your company. If you would like to know more specifics about my educational/professional background you can check my Resume below. You can contact me through my LinkedIn.

Download Marcelo’s Resume

Connect on LinkedIn

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David Matchett Putz – Innovator in Marketing

“Excellence is not perfection, but the relentless pursuit of doing ordinary things extraordinarily well.”

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Philippe Jacques – A Student-Athlete on Display

“You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” – Wayne Gretzky. 

Introduction

Hello! My name is Philippe Jacques. I am a student-athlete who plays for the RIT men’s hockey NCAA division 1 team. I earned a finance degree from RIT in 3 years and I am doing my MBA for my fourth and final year at RIT.

Being a student-athlete is extremely difficult as you have to manage your time and energy for academics, sport, friends, and family. However, being able to successfully accomplish academic tasks is extremely rewarding as it portrays my time management capability whilst continuing to pursue my dream of playing professional hockey.

Interests

Outside of hockey and school, I am deeply interest in financial management and financial planning. Having done two COOPs as an intern in financial planning I strive to learn more in that regards every day and follow financial or insurance vehicles that may be worthy investments in the future.

As for my hobbies, I love to watch sports, especially football and hockey. I love golfing in the summers and skiing in the winters whenever my busy hockey schedule allows it. I love reading books whenever I am done with my homework.

Conclusion

Thank you for taking the time to read a bit more about myself.

I have included links to connect with me on LinkedIn and look over my resume.

Connect with Philippe on Linkedin

Download My Resume Here

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Jill Zabinski-Berne – Passionate Communications Pro

RIT MBA Student

Turning ideas into impact.

I’m Jill Zabinski-Berne, a communications pro who’s spent my career shaping brands, telling stories that stick, and making sure the right messages reach the right people. From big-name companies to arts organizations, I’ve led marketing campaigns, built websites, launched award-winning digital projects, and collaborated with teams across industries to create work that really connects.

I’ve done a little bit of everything—internal and external comms, advertising, branding, SEO-driven web content, social media, and creative strategy. Along the way, I’ve worked with health systems, global corporations, and even ballet companies (where my love of dance and storytelling came full circle).

At the heart of it all, I’m a writer who knows how to get things done, whether it’s driving engagement, building awareness, or growing an audience.

When I’m not writing or dreaming up new ideas, you’ll usually find me out on a hiking trail or soaking up the beauty of ballet.

View Jill’s online portfolio

View Jill’s Resume

Connect with Jill on LinkedIn

Meet my dog, Armando. I mean, he couldn’t really be any cuter. Look at that little debonair pose in front of the Xmas tree.

QUESTION: In your opinion, which is better, dogs or cats? Leave a reply with your two cents.

34 responses to “Jill Zabinski-Berne – Passionate Communications Pro”

  1. Vienna McGrain Avatar
    Vienna McGrain

    Everyone knows that cats are better than dogs. In fact, I can support that statement based on my love for the three kitties that share my home. But, as far as dogs go, Armando is pretty cute.

    1. Pam Bisikirski Avatar
      Pam Bisikirski

      Dogs, have 2 mini Aussies

  2. Jessica Tremaine Avatar
    Jessica Tremaine

    I love both dogs and cats, but I prefer dogs. Dogs are more affectionate and dependant on love from their owners. It’s difficult to keep cats from jumping on the kitchen counter, so that’s a no for me.

    1. Michael Hanlon Avatar
      Michael Hanlon

      Armondo aside, I prefer Cats because they clean themselves, are content being alone most of the day, are quiet, and don’t require walking bathroom breaks. Armondo however is the bestest boy ever.

      1. Danylle Avatar
        Danylle

        I love them both! Unfortunately, kids are allergic to the cats.

    2. Joseph Staszczyk Avatar
      Joseph Staszczyk

      All Dogs go to heaven (mic drop)

  3. Leah Pitre Avatar
    Leah Pitre

    I prefer a dog over a cat but I’ve met cats who act like dogs and those are pretty cool cats. Any animal who is excited to greet you every day, endless times a day makes our hearts warm and a house more loving.

  4. Eva Staszczyk Avatar
    Eva Staszczyk

    I love cats and dogs. But I prefer cats. They are cuddly, and independent. My kind of pet. Dogs are also great 😍 but more work. So I stick to my cute three kitties at home

  5. Kathy A Taylor Avatar
    Kathy A Taylor

    This is a relative question. Personally, I have a love for both cats and dogs. I had the opportunity to foster a handsome dog several years ago. He gave me so much love and I enjoyed our relationship. He was my protector and support. He got along with my 3 fur babies, my cats. My cats are beautiful and they provide with love, strength and contentment. Each day is filled with love, mischief, and play. My babies display different personalities. Syke is agile and quiet. Basil is shy, and she will snuggle on her terms. Sammie is a talker and knows no boundaries. Sammie amd Basil are my protectors when other cats are in my yard. Sammie loves his walks in his stroller. Again I love both cats and dogs. I love my boy Mondo❤️

    1. Kathy A Taylor Avatar
      Kathy A Taylor

      I wanted to add one thing. It is very important to give your fur babies affirmations! Their response is priceless. The look they give, the purring and kneading they do fills my heart! When they follow me it is like having a shadow that never leaves. ❤️

  6. Lindsay St Lucia Avatar
    Lindsay St Lucia

    Dog lover over here! Armando is looking very handsome in his holiday photo pose 😉

  7. Suumil Roy Avatar
    Suumil Roy

    I have never had a pet before because of various reasons and restrictions.

    Cats are homebodies, but it’s always like a situation-ship with them.

    I personally understand dogs as they are outdoorsy, I wanna befriend a husky when I grow older, I have always been fascinated by them.

  8. Julie Lewis Avatar
    Julie Lewis

    Team DOG! Specifically in this instance Team Armando! Great to see you continuing to grow, learn, and just being that fantastic human you have always been at the core.

  9. Laura Avatar
    Laura

    Cats… all the way. Sorry Armando.

  10. MelB Avatar
    MelB

    Cats are definitely better than dogs, but Armando is adorable. And all animals are wonderful.

  11. Mollie Radzinski Avatar
    Mollie Radzinski

    Dogs all the way! 🙂

  12. Nina proctor Avatar
    Nina proctor

    I love all animals. However, when it comes to pets I prefer cats. Dogs are incredible companions. I like the independence, size, cuddles and amusement of my cats.
    Again, I love them all.

  13. Ron Follansbee Avatar
    Ron Follansbee

    Dogs are better. They are excited every time you come home. They are consistent. They can be trained. They are fun to play with. They don’t make me sneeze (cats do) and they don’t keep doing things that you’ve asked them not to do (unless they’re puppies…they can’t help it).

  14. Hemnathe Gopal Avatar
    Hemnathe Gopal

    I was a dog person through and through, until I met an orange cat- you know- the eccentric ones! Now I can’t pick between cats and dogs anymore. Both are amazing companions and friends 🙂

    1. Brenda Avatar
      Brenda

      Armando is precious! Growing up we always had dogs; my mom rescued a number of strays over the years. When my kids left for college, they suggested I adopt a puppy to keep me company. Meghan was a beautiful lab that visited my daughter in college often to help her from being homesick. About the same time, a striped orange cat adopted us; Mortimer “Morty” la Baguette and ended up moving to college with my daughter, lol!

  15. Kristen Cavatassi Avatar
    Kristen Cavatassi

    Dogs 🐕

  16. Kelly Avatar
    Kelly

    I always wanted a cat but ended up having only dogs!

  17. Steve Diamanti Avatar
    Steve Diamanti

    I love both, although if pushed to choose one I’d probably say dog person. I used to be a solidly dog person for most of my life. Then I adopted a sweet kitten named Squeakers from the Dayton Humane Society who acted more like a dog and spent most of my working hours with me when I started working remotely in 2018.

  18. Holly Ferrell Avatar
    Holly Ferrell

    Dogs. I love both and while there is nothing that sounds better than a cat purr, the unconditional love of a dog and the fun you can have together (agility, hiking, rally) is amazing.

  19. Robert Bailey Avatar

    The answer is dogs. It’s not a fair question to cats.

  20. Carl Langsenkamp Avatar
    Carl Langsenkamp

    Looks great.

  21. Greg Livadas Avatar
    Greg Livadas

    Cats and dogs are both great, as long as they don’t poop/pee on the floor.

  22. Brandie Walker Avatar
    Brandie Walker

    Cute pup! I love all animals – but I have to agree with a few comments from others – cats are easier to care for. Having said that, I would never turn down an opportunity to meet a new furred, feathered or scaled buddy!

  23. Kim Walters Avatar
    Kim Walters

    Life with my big dog Marley has convinced me that cats are better. My cat Scooter would never eat your steak if you walk away from the table to get the salt shaker, or the pumpkin pie you just baked for Thanksgiving, or your kids’ precious gingerbread house, or a frozen whole pizza awaiting an oven. And, a cat won’t drag you across a soccer field so they can go sniff another cat from the visiting team.

  24. Jen Miglioratti Avatar
    Jen Miglioratti

    Neither cats or dogs or rather both cats and dogs. Honestly all the animals are better than most of the people. I think we as humans could learn a bit from our domesticated pals.

  25. Daniel JP Goebert Avatar
    Daniel JP Goebert

    Dogs…all day, every day.

  26. Kristen StJohn Avatar
    Kristen StJohn

    Dogs, 1,000%! My bernedoodle give hugs on command. My cats could neverrrr.

  27. David Avatar

    I’ve had both. I prefer dogs if you have the time and attention they need to be happy. People with more demanding schedules, cats could be a better option due to their independent nature.
    Good luck with the class project!

  28. Jennie Caldwell Avatar
    Jennie Caldwell

    Dogs are more lovable and loving and understand and interact with their families on a higher emotional level compared to cats! Cheers to all dog lovers!

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SEMA

Sarah Fillip: RIT MBA Student

Hello and welcome, new friends! My name is Sarah Fillip, and I truly appreciate you taking the time to learn more about me.

I am currently pursuing my MBA at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) through the 4+1 accelerated program, after completing my undergraduate degree in Supply Chain Management. Throughout my academic journey, I have demonstrated strong commitment, discipline, and effective time management by successfully balancing full-time coursework with two part-time jobs.

Beyond academics, I have stayed actively involved in both school and community initiatives. From participating in clubs at RIT to volunteering at local events, I take pride in being a well-rounded student and a supportive community member. These experiences have strengthened not only my academic knowledge but also my leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. Please feel free to download my resume attached below for more details on my background and accomplishments.

I would describe myself as a strong communicator, comfortable speaking in front of both large groups and one-on-one settings. I have presented formal business plans to panels of judges and enjoy sharing ideas in ways that are clear and engaging. I am also highly organized, with excellent problem-solving abilities and time management skills that allow me to adapt to shifting priorities and maintain focus under demanding schedules. Creativity is another strength of mine, as I have collaborated with peers to develop innovative business plans and product prototypes during my time at RIT. In addition, I am a dedicated team player who values inclusivity, respects diverse perspectives, and is known for being approachable, friendly, and easy to work with.

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Cassie Hockett – Analyst, MBA Candidate

Connect with me on LinkedIn

About Me

I’m a highly motivated and professional all-source analyst with a proven track record of delivering actionable intelligence assessments across government and private sectors. My expertise lies in synthesizing complex data sets drawing from open-source, classified, and proprietary channels to produce clear, strategic insights for decision-makers in business, law enforcement, national security, and military operations.

With a strong foundation in analytical rigor and cross-functional collaboration, I’ve supported high-stakes environments where precision, discretion, and timeliness are critical. My work bridges tactical intelligence with strategic foresight, helping organizations anticipate risks, seize opportunities, and navigate uncertainty.

Currently, I’m pursuing an MBA with a concentration in project management, innovation, and business analysis at the Rochester Institute of Technology. This academic journey is sharpening my ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, drive operational excellence, and design scalable solutions that align with organizational goals. I’m passionate about transforming data into strategy—and strategy into impact.

Strategy Into Impact

My approach to analysis is rooted in precision, adaptability, and real-world application. I don’t just interpret data, I transform it into strategic action.
With advanced proficiency in Excel, I’ve built dynamic dashboards, automated reporting workflows, and modeled complex scenarios that support high-stakes decision-making. From pivot tables to advanced formulas, I use Excel not just as a spreadsheet tool but as a strategic engine that drives clarity and performance.


Now, I’m reshaping how we view data by integrating artificial intelligence into the analytical process. Through real-world applications with a large company, I’ve begun leveraging AI to uncover patterns, forecast outcomes, and elevate decision-making beyond traditional methods. It’s not just an upgrade in tools—it’s a shift in perspective.


By applying AI, I’m opening a kind of third eye in analysis: one that sees beyond the surface, connects disparate signals, and reveals strategic truths that were previously hidden. This expanded lens allows me to move from reactive reporting to predictive insight, helping organizations anticipate change and act with confidence.


This fusion of human intuition, technical skill, and machine intelligence is transforming how we define impact—and how we deliver it.

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Raj Murthy – Educator, Consultant and Speaker.

Raj Murthy

Download Raj Murthy’s Resume Here

Connect with Raj on LinkedIn