Sayali is a high impact bio-pharmaceutical marketing leader with 12 years of U.S. commercialization experience, including leadership on a blockbuster brand. Currently, she serves as the Director of Launch Strategy and Operations at Merck, where she drives successful product and market execution.

Prior to Merck, she played a pivotal role in launching and marketing multiple brands across infectious disease, cardiology, and primary care. She has extensive experience in varying marketing capabilities leading all aspects of product life cycle from pre-launch to launch to post-launch growth. She has led diverse marketing functions, ensuring the seamless execution of commercial strategies.

Sayali holds a bachelor’s degree in biotechnology with a minor in economics from RIT and a master’s degree in biotechnology and management from Carnegie Mellon University.

What significance does AAPI Heritage Month hold for you?
My connection to AAPI Heritage Month began during my time at RIT, where meaningful friendships with peers from across Asia and the Pacific Islands opened my eyes to the incredible diversity within these communities. Through shared meals, cultural celebrations, and countless conversations, I learned how our distinct traditions and histories, while unique, often echo similar values of family, resilience, and community.

This month holds special significance as it reminds me of these transformative relationships that helped me appreciate how Asian American and Pacific Islander communities have profoundly shaped our society. It's a time when I reflect on how these cross-cultural friendships have enriched my own worldview and understanding.

What led you to RIT?
RIT stood out from the start. I was looking for a school that provides hands-on experience beyond classes, a true campus community, and a globally diverse student body – RIT checked all those boxes.

The sheer range of courses, even beyond my chosen major in the College of Science, sealed the deal. I'm someone who loves to learn and explore, and RIT let me take classes in everything from resort management to game theory. That flexibility made my experience both intellectually stimulating and a whole lot of fun!

What about college were you least prepared?
Coming from India, I was completely unprepared for Rochester's harsh winters. The intense cold, frequent snowfall, and long dark days were a shock to my system - it was a drastic change from the climate I grew up in. I had to quickly learn about winter clothing and walking on ice, which were all entirely new experiences for me.

What were your favorite classes and why?
“Hybridoma Techniques” stands out as my favorite class because it transformed abstract concepts into hands-on learning that truly helped me understand biologics. The highlight was creating monoclonal antibodies from scratch. What makes it especially exciting is that I now work in the pharmaceutical industry, where similar techniques are used to develop breakthrough therapies.

Share your favorite college memory
One of my most cherished college memories is being a founding member of the RIT Bhangra dance team. As someone who loves dancing, I had always admired how other universities showcased this energetic Punjabi folk dance at competitions. We spent countless hours practicing our routines, perfecting our jumps and formations, and designing our outfits. The joy of performing at campus events and seeing the audience's excitement when we showcased this vibrant aspect of Indian culture was incredibly rewarding.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their RIT experience?
I strongly encourage students to take full advantage of RIT's incredible cultural diversity. This is a unique time in your life when you're surrounded by people from all over the world, making it an unparalleled opportunity to broaden your horizons.

The various cultural clubs on campus aren't just social groups - they're gateways to understanding different perspectives, traditions, and ways of life that you might never experience as easily again in your adult life.

Beyond cultural engagement, I recommend exploring all of RIT's resources - from state-of-the-art labs to creative spaces, career services, and networking opportunities. These facilities and programs are designed to help you grow both professionally and personally.

What are some fun facts about you that you’d like to share.
I love traveling and my top favorite countries are Kenya and Iceland.

How can RIT support/build an atmosphere of inclusion, regardless of a person’s identity?
RIT is so strong at this already and is terrific at embracing inclusion, there is nothing I would add!