Aseef Raihan - From Operations Research Analyst to Berkeley Haas

Tell us about yourself, Aseef!

Hometown: Queens, NY

What is your anticipated school and intended major? Clean energy VC at Berkeley Haas 2025

Fun Fact About Yourself: Post-separation, I'm traveling through Africa for a year

What did you do in the military? Operations research analyst

What was your proudest accomplishment in the military? During my time in Afghanistan, I conducted combat analyses that directly advised the commander of 21,000 NATO & allied troops from 39 nations.

What was the biggest benefit to using Service to School throughout the application process? I really loved getting connected to other vets who are further along the exact path I'm following. More than anyone else, they understand exactly where I've been and how to get to where I want to be.

What are you most excited about in regards to starting school? I'm excited to dive into an environment where it's not abnormal to believe you can have a big impact both in the business world and, through that, on many people's lives. I'm especially excited that a large portion of the Berkeley Haas student body is focused on the mission of increasing environmental sustainability.

What are your goals post-graduation? I intend to work in clean energy venture capital and bring my experiences from my personal background, the military, and my travels to work toward increasing global energy equity.

Aseef’s advice for veterans who are applying to college: 

Most of your peers aren't pursuing the path you are, but that doesn't mean your path is unattainable. You're absolutely good enough and S2S can get you connected to others who are where you want to be.

At times, you may ask yourself if you're being overly aspirational in your plans and the journey can feel confusing. But having that peer-to-peer mentorship guides you very specifically and makes the goal realizable.

Congrats again Aseef on your acceptance to UC Berkeley Haas!