15 Questions with Rik Ujaan

How long have you worked at Wake Forest? 

I joined in January 2025, so it’s been about a year and six months.

In simple terms, what is your job here at Wake Forest? 

I work on our financial reporting team within the Controller’s Office. We help produce and compile the financial information and records for the institution.

Basically, I support the team by gathering financial information, providing evaluations and analysis of this information, and partnering with different groups, whether they be colleagues on campus or external stakeholders like the U.S. Census Bureau or the Department of Education.

What do you enjoy the most about working in the world of finance?

I think the problem-solving aspect of the work is fun, and getting to work with a diversity of internal and external partners keeps things interesting. Plus, I like producing different types of deliverables and working with a variety of datasets.

What do you like best about working at Wake Forest? 

Working with our team is really great. The Controller’s Office is a very collegial, friendly, and warm environment. 

I enjoy working for a mission-driven organization, and higher education is a fascinating industry to be in. It’s unique to work somewhere that has so many different elements, like athletics, academics, on-campus residences, campus safety and security, a radio station, and so much more. There’s not a lot of other industries quite like higher education. 

Do you have a favorite spot on campus? 

My number one spot is Reynolda Hall on the side with tables and chairs facing the quad. Nothing beats sitting there and taking in the sweeping view of Wait Chapel. 

I also enjoy walking from campus through Reynolda Gardens to the Graylyn Estate, which I often do on the weekends.

Do you have a favorite Wake Forest tradition or activity? 

I was a graduate student at Wake Forest, and ever since graduate school, one of my favorite traditions is seeing the quad rolled after a big win. It has a neat aesthetic and it was a cool tradition to show my family when they visited. 

How would you describe your music taste? 

My music taste is broad. I like pop music; I’m all about the Billboard Hot 100. I also enjoy different music genres, like indie, country, and Americana. 

Right now, I’ve been listening to a lot of Americana music by Jason Isbell. Noah Kahan came out with a new folk-pop album a couple months ago, which I’ve been listening to a bunch as well.

What book or TV show or podcast would you recommend to our readers? 

I would recommend my two favorite TV shows, which are both on HBO: “The Sopranos” and “The Wire.” 

I was too young to watch these shows when they were first aired, so I’ve really enjoyed seeing them over the last couple of years. I think they offer such an interesting analysis on American culture and incisive social commentary, which I don’t think I’ve really seen from any other TV show.

What is the best piece of advice that you’ve ever received? 

I’m a worrier, so I often receive the advice from my mom to be where my feet are and try to stay grounded. 

What is your hidden talent? 

I’m very good at ordering dessert for a group of people at a restaurant. I can look at the menu and curate different desserts that I think the table would enjoy. I pride myself on that.

What brings you joy? 

Simple things bring me joy. I enjoy going for a stroll outside on a moderate-temperature day and hanging out with friends and my family when they come to visit.

What is a unique tradition, habit, or routine you have that always anchors your day or week?

Having my coffee each morning is a good daily anchor. To make my usual cup of coffee, I use Bru, which is made by an Indian coffee company, and I add in milk, honey, and cinnamon. It sets the tone for my day and helps get me energized with some caffeine in the peace of my home.

What was your favorite childhood comfort food?

Without a doubt, my childhood favorite was my grandfather’s lamb curry. He marinated it in yogurt and it took a very long time to make. The meat was spicy and it was served with rice. It’s still my favorite comfort food.

What is the most memorable travel experience you’ve ever had?

There are two trips that stand out. I spent some time growing up in Rwanda and Tanzania—my dad worked for the United Nations there. On one trip during this time, we went on a safari in the Ngorongoro Crater, including camping overnight. I came away from that trip appreciating nature in a new way. 

On a different trip, during high school, I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. I took a sand wedge and golf ball with me, and I hit a golf shot at the top of the mountain. I didn’t go with my family; I went with a group of people from the UK. Walking and talking with people I didn’t know was a good way to learn how to develop friendships.  

Your staff spotlight nomination highlighted your strength in networking. If you had to write a ‘user manual’ on how to genuinely connect with people, what would your golden rule be?

Be yourself. I think people enjoy speaking with folks who are just being their authentic selves. Staying true to yourself lets you forge lasting connections and friendships.

---

Do you or a colleague have an interesting hobby or achievement and would like to be featured in an upcoming 15 Questions? Submit spotlight nominations here.