Meet Rijul Mahajan, the 2024 Fall Commencement Student Speaker!

Rijul Mahajan is a senior at Michigan State University, majoring in Supply Chain Management with a minor in Environmental and Sustainability Studies. Originally from Delhi, India, Rijul plans to join Kohler Co. as a Supply Chain Specialist in the Operations and Supply Chain Leadership Development Program upon graduation.

We sat down with Rijul to get to know her, ahead of watching her take the stage at Fall Commencement, on December 14^th, 2024.

I am a thoughtful and self-reliant individual who values meaningful relationships and diverse experiences. I believe that I embody adaptability, inclusivity, and a positive growth mindset as key leadership qualities. I am proud that I am quick to embrace unfamiliar challenges, learn from my mistakes and am committed to personally and professionally evolving.

Over the past few years, I have had the privilege of participating in the homecoming parade thanks to my involvement with the International Students Association (ISA), both as a former executive board member and as a current active member. This year, I had the incredible honor of walking alongside Homecoming Marshall Sam Vincent, which was a truly memorable experience.

As a freshman, the concept of a homecoming parade was entirely new to me. Growing up in India, I had never witnessed anything like it, so it felt surreal to immerse myself in a tradition that celebrates the spirit and pride of Michigan State University. The parade showcases not just the university’s deep-rooted traditions but also its vibrant diversity, creativity, and community spirit. Each float and banner represents the uniqueness of our organizations, cultures, and student groups, creating a spectacular display of what it means to be a Spartan.

What makes this tradition even more special is the sense of unity and belonging it fosters. Walking the parade route, I’ve felt the unwavering support and energy of the Spartan community—students, faculty, alumni, and local families cheering us on.

SCM 373 (Logistics and Transportation Management) with Professor Simone Peinkofer was one of my favorites. Professor Peinkofer’s engaging teaching style and clear explanations made complex concepts easy to understand. As one of my first classes as a Supply Chain major, it played a pivotal role in solidifying my interest in the field.

Another favorite was SCM 470 (Integrated SCM Capstone) with Professor Anne Dohmen. Despite being an 8 AM class in the spring, I genuinely looked forward to attending because of the real-world insights Professor Dohmen brought to the table. Outside of class, Professor Dohmen was always approachable and happy to discuss supply chain-related topics, whether it was about coursework or the latest industry news.

For my minor, I loved taking CSUS 265 (Environmental Issues through Films). This class was unique in its approach, using documentaries and feature films to explore sustainability issues. Watching and analyzing these films not only enhanced my understanding of environmental challenges but also exposed me to new perspectives and innovative ways to address them. The blend of storytelling and education made this class a refreshing and impactful experience.

I love going to the Union, getting coffee from Strange Matter, and then studying in the quite study area.

I’m currently a Dashney Women’s Leadership Accelerator Scholar and a Research Lead for the Interdisciplinary Supply Chain Research Organization. I’m also the Resident Assistance in Mcdonel Hall.

While at MSU, I also served as the Professional Development Chair on the Broad International Students Council, the Director of Public Relations for the International Students Association and the Director of Sponsorships for the Indian Students Organization.

I will join Kohler Co. as a Supply Chain Specialist in the Operations and Supply Chain Leadership Development Program. I previously interned there as a Global Strategic Sourcing Intern and am excited to take this next step. I will be focused on advancing sustainable procurement strategies and driving innovation at the intersection of technology, sustainability, and global supply chain operations.

For more information about commencement festivities, click here.