School and College Going Students Enlightened at GOPIO-CT's 'College and Beyond' Event

The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin - Connecticut Chapter (GOPIO-CT) hosted a highly engaging and insightful event designed to empower high school students as they navigate the critical transitions to college and professional life. The event, held on Tues, Dec 24th at Hamilton Inn and Suites, Stamford. It featured an impressive panel of speakers, including college students, recent graduates, early-career professionals, and a distinguished professor, who shared their real-world experiences and actionable advice.

The program aimed to demystify the college application process, shed light on the realities of college life, and offer valuable strategies for academic and personal success. It also provided insights into the transition from college to the professional world, equipping attendees with practical tips to build a strong foundation for their future careers.

Photo: GOPIO-CT Youth Meeting Panelists developing a strategy for a successful panel discussion

The panel was moderated by Nandu Kuppuswamy, Head of Investor Relations, MCR Investors. The panelists were: Sraavani Akarapu – UPenn Graduate, Megha Gupta - Alum Purdue University, Dhruv Hill - Freshman, San Diego State University, Arnav Jhangiani - Junior, Finance Major, Arizona State University, Himani Narayan, Junior, Pace University, Amrutha Nandakumar - 1st Year, Oxford University, Brian Thomas - Sophomore at NYU Stern School of Business, Curren Iyer - Senior Product Operations Manager, Ramp (Harvard and HBS alum) and Cecil Nazareth, Faculty at Fordham University Business School, CPA, Author, Motivational Speaker.

Some of the highlights of the event were as follows:

• Dynamic Panel Discussions: Each panelist brought unique perspectives and expertise, creating a rich tapestry of advice tailored to students at different stages of their educational journeys. Topics ranged from crafting compelling college applications to managing priorities in college and establishing a successful professional path.
• Interactive Q&A Sessions: Attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with the panelists, asking questions about challenges and opportunities in higher education and beyond. This fostered a lively and interactive exchange of ideas.
• Real-World Insights: College students discussed balancing academics with extracurricular activities and building meaningful connections on campus. Recent graduates highlighted strategies for adapting to new environments, while early professionals shared advice on leveraging internships and networking to launch their careers.
• Expert Academic Guidance: The professor on the panel provided a comprehensive overview of how students can make the most of their college experience, emphasizing the importance of skills, purpose, and lifelong learning.

Photo - GOPIO-CT Youth Panel in session, Moderator Nandu Kuppuswamy speaking. Sitting from l. to r. Sraavani Akarapu, Cecil Nazareth, Curren Iyer, Megha Gupta, Arnav Jhangiani, Himani Narayan, Dhruv Hill, Brian Thomas and Amrutha Nandakumar

Key Takeaways for Attendees:

1. Start Early: Begin college applications and research well in advance to identify institutions and programs that align with personal goals. Choose Early Decision & Early Action when clear about the choice of schools. 
2. Prioritize Self-Discovery: Use college as a time to explore interests, build skills, and develop a growth mindset.
3. Focus on Balance: Manage academics, extracurricular activities, social connections, and time effectively to create a holistic and fulfilling college experience.
4. Prepare for Professional Life: Gain real-world experience through internships, mentorship, alumni network, and active participation in industry-related activities.

Memorable Quotes from the Panelists:

Sraavani: ‘Don’t do something just for how it will look on college applications. Do something you are genuinely interested in, and that which shows your authentic self - e.g. gardening.’

Dhruv: ‘As you receive responses to your college applications, remember that rejection is redirection. It is an opportunity to look at options you might not have considered and may turn out better for you.’

Himani: ‘In the first year, get involved, but focus on losing FOMO as some event is happening every night. Go to events that matter.’

Brian: ‘For your college application, create a unique and compelling story that differentiates you. Turn any negative energy to positive energy.’

Amrutha: ‘When transitioning to college life, saying NO is important. Don’t say YES to everything.  It is okay to say NO’.

Professor Nazareth: ‘Focus on 1) skills (what can you do?) and not just getting a degree, and 2) purpose (something that is bigger than yourself).’

Photo: GOPIO-CT Youth Panel Audience and students interacting

The event was graced by GOPIO officials including GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham. After the panel discussion, Dr. Abraham briefly spoke on GOPIO International and the roles the various chapters are playing in community service and activities of wider interest to the local society.

About GOPIO: The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the well-being and advancement of people of Indian origin worldwide. Over the last 18 years, GOPIO-CT, a chapter of GOPIO International has become an active and dynamic organization hosting interactive sessions with policy makers and academicians, community events, youth mentoring and networking workshops, and working with other area organizations to help create a better future. GOPIO-CT serves as a non-partisan, secular, civic and community service organization – promoting awareness of Indian culture, customs and contributions of people of Indian origin through community programs, forums, events and youth activities. It seeks to strengthen partnerships and create an ongoing dialogue with local communities.

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