Student Experience
Life Beyond the Redwoods: Arsema Moges at Apple
One year after graduating from UC Santa Cruz, Arsema Moges (College Nine ’24, technology and information management) works as an engineering product manager at Apple.
Arsema Moges (College Nine ’24, technology and information management)
Arsema Moges (College Nine ’24, technology and information management) is passionate about technology and its potential to make a meaningful impact, whether she’s navigating the complexities of product development or exploring ways to drive social change through innovation. Now a product manager at Apple, she credits her time at UC Santa Cruz with laying the groundwork for her success.
“UC Santa Cruz played a big role in preparing me for my role at Apple,” Moges said.
She credits UC Santa Cruz courses such as Supply Chain Management, TIM 172A/B, and other computer science and system design classes for providing a strong foundation in the software development lifecycle, product lifecycle, and the dynamics of cross-functional teams.
In addition to her coursework, Moges emphasized that being part of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) at UC Santa Cruz reinforced the power of community and mutual support. The organization provided a space to connect with peers who shared her goals, encouraging her growth and confidence while opening doors to valuable opportunities through alumni talks, conferences, and career fairs.
“It gave me a space to connect with like-minded individuals who shared similar goals and passions—we motivated each other and pushed one another to grow,” Moges said. “NSBE played a big role in helping me believe in myself and seek out opportunities like the one I have now.”
As a product manager at Apple, Moges helps to ensure the delivery of scalable software products that support critical business functions across the company. Her responsibilities include leading cross-functional projects, coordinating with engineering and business teams to create requirements, and driving sprint planning, release management, and stakeholder communications.
A proud first-generation Ethiopian-American, Moges emphasizes that her successes wouldn’t have been possible without the support of her parents.
“I am my parents’ dream, and every day I’m reminded to keep pushing forward,” Moges said. “Growing up, I didn’t often see people who looked like me in roles like this—especially right out of college—so landing my dream job as a product manager at Apple feels surreal and deeply personal.”
Looking forward in her career, Moges is passionate about using technology to drive meaningful change—especially in sustainability and education. She hopes to contribute to environmental efforts through innovative tech solutions and help expand access to education for underrepresented communities.
Moges said she is “always looking for opportunities that allow me to give back, uplift others, and care for the planet in the process”.
“I don’t take this opportunity lightly,” Moges said about her position at Apple. “I’m committed to making sure this role doesn’t just benefit me, but also uplifts others in my community. I’ve always believed that success means more when it’s shared. Whether through mentorship, representation, or creating access for others, I want to be someone who holds the door open—because so many people helped hold it open for me.”
Explore where the Class of 2024 is now. Discover the top employers hiring our alumni, the leading graduate schools admitting them, and first-hand accounts of their journeys.