Cleveland State University is spotlighting one of its most distinguished students, Isabel Paulesc, whose academic and community achievements have raised the bar for campus involvement and student success. In an interview with CSU News, Paulesc shared her experiences at CSU, emphasizing her accelerated academic journey and deep engagement with university life.
Paulesc, achieving her undergraduate degree in a mere three years, said in a statement obtained by CSU News, "My time at Cleveland State University has been shorter than most." She attributed her quick progression in part to being deeply involved with the community at CSU, including participation in the Choose Ohio First program and presenting at the statewide Choose Ohio First Scholar Showcase in Columbus. Paulesc's commitment to STEM through these programs proves her dedication, while also building her academic and professional network.
Beyond COF, Paulesc has been a fixture at the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel Honors College from her freshman year, climbing to the role of Vice President of the Mandel Vikes Honors College Club in her sophomore year. Her experience has been anything but one-note, contributing to important biochemical research under Dr. Zhou, as well as managing finances as Treasurer of CSU’s American Medical Student Association. "Completing biochemical research," Paulesc added via CSU News, "has allowed me to play a key role in supporting AMSA’s mission to provide pre-medical students with valuable resources and opportunities."
The article published by CSU News also notes Paulesc's influential position as the Director of Academic Affairs for the 2024-2025 academic school year. From this vantage, she championed policies to enhance student success and acted as a bridge between students and administration. "I serve as a voting member and STEM student representative of the Undergraduate Student Success Committee," Paulesc said via CSU News, emphasizing her direct engagement with Provost Sridhar through regular meetings tailored to advancing student interests. One of her signature initiatives was advocating for syllabi transparency, now an ongoing project aimed at granting students access to syllabi before class sign-ups—an important step for informed academic decision-making.
Isabel Paulesc represents the quintessence of academic aspiration and civic engagement at CSU. Balancing rigorous coursework with extensive extracurricular activities, her narrative stands as a testament to the kind of holistic education and social contribution that Cleveland State University encourages and celebrates.
