Nikola Nikolic

MBA Candidate | NCAA Division I Student-Athlete

Los Altos, California, United States

About

I am an MBA candidate at San José State University specializing in business management, with a strong foundation in finance, strategic planning, operations, and data analytics. I previously earned my B.S. in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from SJSU, graduating with honors, which reflects both my academic dedication and passion for business. As an NCAA Division I student-athlete, I have developed the leadership, resilience, and teamwork skills necessary to thrive in fast-paced, competitive environments. My professional background includes hands-on experience in financial reporting, market research, customer acquisition, and business development. Through internships across diverse industries, I have supported budgeting and compliance initiatives, executed go-to-market strategies, built high-potential sales pipelines, and delivered data-driven insights that informed executive decision-making. Beyond academics and work, my experience competing at both collegiate and national levels in water polo has strengthened my time management, problem-solving, and leadership under pressure—qualities that I consistently apply in professional settings. I am passionate about leveraging my business acumen, analytical mindset, and growth-oriented approach to drive organizational success. I am open to opportunities across a wide range of business-related fields, including finance, operations, strategy, consulting, and business development. I am actively seeking both full-time and part-time opportunities starting in Fall 2026 and welcome connections with professionals, mentors, and organizations that value growth, innovation, and strategic success.

Experience

  • Financial Planning Analyst at West Valley College
    Aug 2025 - Dec 2025 · 5 mos

    • Manage budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance initiatives to ensure accuracy and efficiency for the Director of Aquatics. • Analyze financial and operational data using Excel and Python to provide insights that drive planning and decision-making. • Streamline reporting processes across departments to improve financial transparency and accountability. • Develop expertise in financial management, organizational operations, and data analytics within a higher-education setting.

  • San José State University ()
    • Teaching Assistant
      Jan 2025 - May 2025 · 5 mos

      Entrepreneurship Laboratory (ELAB) • Guided students through hands-on venture creation projects, applying principles of entrepreneurship and innovation. • Supported course instruction by facilitating workshops, mentoring student teams, and reviewing project deliverables. • Collaborated with faculty and peers to create a dynamic learning environment that connected theory with real-world application. • Strengthened expertise in entrepreneurship, leadership development, and experiential learning while mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs.

    • Lifeguard
      Jun 2023 - May 2025 · 2 yrs

      • Perform water rescues and administer CPR and first aid with up-to-date certifications. • Respond calmly and effectively to emergencies while strictly following safety protocols. • Enforce pool rules and communicate clearly with patrons to ensure a safe environment. • Collaborate with fellow lifeguards to deliver a coordinated response to both routine operations and unexpected incidents.

    • Teaching Assistant
      Aug 2024 - Dec 2024 · 5 mos

      KIN 3 (Water Polo Class) • Instructed undergraduate students in water polo fundamentals, including technique, rules, and game strategy. • Demonstrated drills and training exercises to support skill development and athletic performance. • Assisted the professor in organizing class activities, evaluating student progress, and maintaining safety standards. • Fostered teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship among students through effective guidance and mentorship.

  • Growth & Revenue Analyst Intern at PlayyOn
    May 2024 - May 2025 · 1 yr 1 mo

    • Drove a 5% increase in customer acquisition and expanded social media reach by 20% through targeted digital campaigns. • Forged promotional partnerships with elite athletes, elevating PlayyOn’s visibility across the sports tech community. • Delivered actionable, data-driven insights to leadership by evaluating campaign performance and market trends. • Strengthened expertise in digital marketing, business development, and startup growth strategies.

  • Corporate Strategy & Market Analysis Intern at Crowd Machine
    Jan 2024 - May 2024 · 5 mos

    • Executed a go-to-market plan to drive the company’s strategic relaunch following bankruptcy. • Conducted in-depth industry and competitor research within the no-code technology sector to identify growth opportunities. • Collaborated with cross-functional stakeholders to shape strategic initiatives and operational improvements. • Enhanced skills in business strategy, market analysis, and stakeholder engagement.

  • Revenue Strategy & Business Analytics Intern at BRIDGR
    Sep 2023 - Dec 2023 · 4 mos

    • Built a high-potential leads database in partnership with the CRO to support a $1M ARR target in the U.S. market. • Identified and qualified 100+ new prospects, accelerating customer acquisition efforts. • Presented data-driven recommendations to the CEO, informing ARR growth strategies. • Sharpened expertise in sales strategy, lead generation, and B2B business development.