One of the first classes Michael Yaroshefsky took at Princeton was a writing seminar called “Small World.” It opened his eyes to new ideas and helped him appreciate the range of academic options available at the University.

“The class was on topics about which I previously had no experience: globalization, cosmopolitanism and Orientalism,” says Yaroshefsky. He approached the course with an open mind and by the end realized that he had "become passionate about analyzing current events in a new context.”

Now a concentrator in operations research and financial engineering (ORFE), Yaroshefsky enjoys the interdisciplinary nature of the subject. “I’m integrating courses from economics, computer science and even Greco-Roman history into a degree uniquely tailored to my aspirations,” he says. “When I graduate, I’ll have a diverse range of skills that I can adapt to become successful in whatever field of work I choose.”

Using his own experience as an example, Yaroshefsky is certain that one of the most valuable aspects of a Princeton education is its emphasis on teaching students to think, rather than simply to do. “It’s this philosophy that enables Princetonians to become leaders and visionaries wherever they go,” he says.

Deeply interested in software and technology — Yaroshefsky formed his own successful software company while a freshman in high school — he has put his talents to work for Princeton’s Undergraduate Student Government (USG) by serving as chair of information technology. “As chair, I've been directly involved in several USG projects designed to improve the lives of undergraduates on campus, including the launch of the Princeton Textbook Exchange site, and the creation of the new online elections system,” he says. 

Yaroshefsky’s dedication and enthusiasm for the student government resulted in his recent election to the office of USG president, a position he started in the spring term, 2010.

One of Yaroshefsky’s most treasured activities is one of Princeton’s oldest traditions — performing during chapel service. “I sing music ranging from Pavel Chesnokov to Duke Ellington," he says, noting "it takes three seconds for the music to echo through the chapel.” Recently, Yaroshefsky and other members of the choir traveled to Spain and sang at churches in Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.