10 Tips for Pivoting Your Career to AI
By Professor Vijay Gurbaxani, Director of the Center for Digital Transformation

The world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expanding at a rapid pace, and many professionals are looking to pivot their careers to tap into this transformative technology. As a Merage School alum, you already possess a solid foundation in business acumen, strategic thinking, and problem-solving. Here are ten tips to help you successfully pivot your career to AI:

• ➤ Upskill Through Online Courses: AI fluency is essential. Enroll in AI-specific courses to gain foundational knowledge. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses in AI, machine learning, and data science that can help bridge any knowledge gaps.
  
  
• ➤ Consider a Specialized AI Program: If you’re looking for a deeper dive, consider enrolling in specialized AI programs or certifications. Many institutions, including UCI, offer advanced programs that focus on the intersection of AI and business.
  
  
• ➤ Stay Updated on AI Trends: The AI landscape is constantly evolving. Stay informed about the latest developments by following industry leaders, subscribing to AI newsletters, and reading relevant research papers. Knowledge of current trends will give you a competitive edge. Then, take advantage of your accumulated experience and knowledge.
  
  

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How AI Affects Product Recommendation Bias

We’ve all been there. You search for something at your favorite online store, and suddenly a product recommendation catches your eye. The price is right. The customer ratings are solid. The next thing you know you’re clicking “add to cart” and completing your purchase. Do you know the reason behind why the store suggested that specific product? Was it because it was the best available option at the best price, or was it because the profit margin for that product was higher compared to another possibly better product that they never showed you. READ >>

DEAN'S CORNER
Future of Work Event

The Merage School recently celebrated the launch of Dean Ian O. Williamson’s new book, The Conversation on Work, with a thought-provoking panel featuring Dean Williamson, Monica Pleasant, Director of HR at Medtronic, and esteemed professors Michael Imerman (FinTech), Patricia Wellmeyer (Accounting), Sharon Koppman (Organizational Behavior), Ed Coulson (Real Estate), and Vijay Gurbaxani (Digital Transformation). The event explored the future of work and Orange County’s evolving economy, tackling topics like meaningful work, AI's impact, and strategies to attract top talent in a rapidly changing, service-oriented landscape.

IN THE MEDIA
Connecting Students to the Business Community

• ➤ OC Leader Board: Creating an Engaged and Resilient Talent Pipeline for Orange County – Dean Ian O. Williamson
  
  
• ➤ Newport Beach Chamber Hosts 2025 Economic Forecast at Balboa Bay Resort Oct. 3 – Professor Christopher Schwarz
  
  
• ➤ Execution Prices Across Retail Option Brokers Vary Significantly – Professors Philippe Jorion and Christopher Schwarz
  
  
• ➤ Why are CFOs gloomy about the future? – Dean Ian O. Williamson
  
  
• ➤ Wall Street Journal: Why the Fed Cut Sent Stocks Soaring – Professor Emeritus Richard B. McKenzie
  
  

Diverse Incoming Class

The Merage School proudly welcomes its largest and most diverse class ever. This year, 650 graduate students join us across programs, with 49% women, 30% first-generation students, and representation from over 30 countries. Our undergraduate class, selected from a record 16,275 applicants, includes 293 new students—27% of freshmen and 40% of transfers are first-generation. This exceptional class reflects our commitment to inclusive excellence and global perspectives.

Save the Date – Homecoming
March 1, 2025

Reconnect with fellow Anteaters at the heart of our campus, Aldrich Park, for a memorable day celebrating our Anteater community during this family-friendly tradition. Enjoy an afternoon of Ferris Wheel rides, food trucks, family fun zone, live music, homecoming court coronation, pre-game rally before Men’s basketball takes on Black and Blue Rival Long Beach State and so much more.