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 Isabel Paulesc ‘25. 

CSU: Have you had any significant Internships/Co-ops/Careers while at CSU?

IP: My time at Cleveland State University has been shorter than most, having achieved my undergraduate degree in three years instead of your average four. Therefore, being involved in the community at Cleveland State University (CSU) has been so important to me during my time here. From the very start of my journey at CSU, I have been a member of the Choose Ohio First (COF) program. This is a state-funded program for students who are residents of Ohio pursuing undergraduate degrees in STEM. Not only have I built close relationships while in this cohort but have also had the opportunity and honor to be selected as one of two CSU COF cohort members to present at the statewide 2025 Choose Ohio First Scholar Showcase in Columbus, Ohio.

Furthermore, I have also been a proud member of the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel Honors College since my freshman year. Additionally, I served as Vice President of the Mandel Vikes Honors College Club during my sophomore year. This past year I have been extremely busy on campus, completing biochemical research in the laboratory of Dr. Zhou, Ph.D. in the Chemistry Department researching the role of RNase L in EGF homeostasis. I have been serving as the Treasurer of CSU’s American Medical Student Association (AMSA) where I am responsible for all budgetary oversight and maintenance for the organization including allocations, expenditures, financial reporting, compliance, and accountability, as well as fundraising oversight. This has allowed me to play a key role in supporting AMSA’s mission to provide pre-medical students with valuable resources and opportunities. 

Additionally, I served as the Director of Academic Affairs for the 2024-2025 academic school year at CSU. As Director of Academic Affairs, I act as a liaison between students and university administration where I advocate for academic policies to enhance student success. Through this role, I serve as a voting member and STEM student representative of the Undergraduate Student Success Committee as well as maintain direct correspondence with Provost Sridhar (Senior Vice President and Provost at CSU) through monthly meetings to address student concerns pertaining to academics and drive institutional improvements. One of my key initiatives this year has been to spearhead the movement for syllabi transparency, a project now in progress that aspires to provide students with access to course syllabi prior to course registration for the semester. Through these initiatives, I have worked to enhance academic resources, uphold academic integrity, and promote academic excellence within the university while also persevering in bringing students together and creating a culture that promotes academic success.

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

IP:  During my time at CSU, I have had the honor and privilege of making meaningful connections with a multitude of faculty and staff. They have supported me academically and as mentors throughout my journey as a pre-med student. I have had the opportunity to work with career specialist John Nelson-Hronek in the Office of Career Development and Exploration at CSU throughout the duration of my time here and he has been a crucial mentor in guiding and working alongside me as a pre-medical student to equip me with essential resources and instruction to succeed and excel.

As mentioned, CSU faculty Dr. Zhou has mentored me in his chemistry research laboratory where I have been performing independent research for the past three semesters. Under his vigilant instruction, I have gained knowledge of a wide variety of biochemical concepts and lab technical skills. I had the absolute privilege of being taught Organic Chemistry I and II under Dr. Vania De Paoli and Biochemistry I and II by Dr. Anthony Berdis both in the Chemistry Department at CSU. They provided rigorous training, challenged me to think critically, and encouraged deep engagement with both subject matters. Their mentorship has not only sharpened my academic skills but also the joy of discovery and importance of determination. Beyond academics, they have served as role models to me through their passion and dedication to their fields, setting a standard of excellence and passion that I aspire to uphold throughout my career beyond Cleveland State University.

My connection with Provost Sridhar began with my appointment as Director of Academic Affairs of the Student Government Association (SGA). Over the past year, my professional relationship with the Provost has grown into a genuine, strong and collaborative partnership built on a shared commitment to student success. Through our monthly meetings, we have created an open space allowing us to discuss academic challenges within the university, exchange ideas, and develop strategies to support students and address their needs proactively. These conversations have not only strengthened our ability to lead substantial initiatives across the university, but also allowed me to grow personally and professionally, gaining valuable insights into leadership at the university level. I have grown as a leader, fine-tuning my abilities in strategic and critical thinking, effectively advocating for students, and further cultivating a sense of community on campus. Working alongside the Provost has been a rewarding experience and has deepened my commitment to leading with empathy, strategy and purpose.

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

IP: Reflecting on my time at Cleveland State University, I am filled with gratitude for the many opportunities that helped shape who I am today. The support I received — especially through academic scholarships — gave me more than just the ability to pursue my education; it shaped my outlook on perseverance and possibility. It taught me that no barrier is insurmountable when met with resilience, hard work, and a belief in the power of endurance. Cleveland State University has inspired me to approach the future with courage and confidence, knowing that no matter the challenges ahead, there is always a way forward.

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

IP: Throughout my time at Cleveland State University, I have strived to embody the heart of CSU’s mission both inside and outside of the classroom. By engaging deeply in research, service and leadership, I have sought to leverage the opportunities CSU provided to grow as a student, advocate and future leader.

My biochemistry research at CSU has allowed me to develop critical thinking skills and future-ready knowledge that will not only be valuable in my medical career but upholds the values of CSU. My involvement in student organizations, including my service as Director of Academic Affairs and Treasurer of AMSA, has allowed me to address real academic concerns in collaboration with university leadership, develop my leadership skills, and work towards lasting improvements for current and future students. My goal as Director of Academic Affairs was always to leave a lasting, positive impact - building on the foundation that made my own journey at Cleveland State so significant. I am grateful to have been able to do so and contribute to a community that has given me so much. 

Additionally, by presenting at the Choose Ohio First Scholar Showcase and representing CSU at the state level, I had the privilege of promoting the incredible work happening within our community. Working closely with peers, faculty, and administration, I have sought to contribute to a campus culture that values innovation, service, and the pursuit of excellence.

Most importantly, Cleveland State taught me that leadership is rooted in service to others — a lesson I will carry forward as I continue to address the evolving needs of the communities I will serve in my future career.

Congratulations, Isabel!