Randy Ayyar - Alumni Profile

Randy Ayyar, of West Bloomfield, Michigan, is a Franchisee and Multi-Unit Operator for Dunkin Donuts and Baskin Robbins restaurants.  A graduate of Bloomfield Hills’ Andover High, Ayyar completed two years at OCC before transferring to Michigan State University to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Finance in 2004.

Why did you choose to attend OCC?
I really liked that the campus was close to home and the classes were affordable to complete my general education requirements.  I also felt very comfortable with the campus atmosphere.

What was your fondest memory of OCC?
Every semester I looked forward to meeting new people in my classes with whom I could network and build new friendships.

What surprised you the most about OCC?
OCC has great professors.  The quality of the education was what you could expect at a top university.  The professors really cared and were engaged with their students in class.  They made sure the students did not feel lost or fall through the cracks.

How did OCC impact your life?
I was an average student in high school, but when I got to OCC it provided an environment where I really felt engaged, and because of that I was able to learn and achieve a 3.4 GPA upon completion of my time there.  This was vital in allowing me to transfer to Michigan State University, where I was able to complete my bachelor’s degree and get hired by Fortune 500 companies.

Was there a faculty member who had a strong positive impact on your life?
It has been 14 years now since I attended OCC, so it’s a bit difficult to pick out one particular professor.  However, I would say, as a whole, I really think the team of professors and faculty really stood out as a collective of individuals who really embody what an exemplary education should look and feel like.

Were you involved in student engagement activities at OCC?
No.

What has been your most rewarding professional/personal experience since graduating?
I have been blessed with many great opportunities including working in telecommunications with AT&T, in pharmaceuticals helping in the field of Diabetes Care and Prevention with Novo Nordisk, and in television as a talk show host.  Most recently, I have been fortunate to be my own boss and open locations for Dunkin Donuts and Baskin Robbins restaurants.  I really feel I have had a colorful and diverse adventure that has taught me so many different skills that I can apply in all aspects of my life, and the adventure still continues.

What you like people to know about OCC?
If you are on the fence about going to college or what college to attend, don’t hesitate too long and let life pass you by.  For those starting their college education, OCC is the best decision you could make and you will only know it when you jump in.