Alicia Zhang graduated with highest distinction from the University of California, San Diego, earning a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Computing and the Arts (ICAM), a B.S. in Business Economics (ranked first in her major), and a minor in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. An innovative entrepreneur, artist, and business leader, Alicia thrives at the intersection of art and technology within the broader business landscape.
During her undergraduate years, Alicia interned with several technology firms as a business analyst, co-founded two non-profit educational startups, and had multiple performance art and installation pieces exhibited at the Adam D. Kamil Gallery. She also co-curated two exhibitions, working with over 40 mixed-media art pieces. Additionally, Alicia held leadership positions as president and vice president in three pre-professional organizations focused on consulting, investment, and non-profit sectors. She showcased her musical talents as the lead guitarist for two alternative rock bands, performing in acclaimed productions such as "American Idiot," "Rocky Horror Show," and "Something Rotten!" with Muir Musical.
As she embarks on her journey in the ARAD program, Alicia is eager to gain insights from industry leaders and learn from expert practitioners. She is keenly aware of the challenges facing the highly concentrated and opaque art market, including stagnant growth and diminishing social impact, so she is committed to fostering long-term relationships with like-minded individuals to strengthen, sustain, and democratize the art sector, making it more accessible to all.
