Degree: Computer Engineering, MEng 2021
What are you doing now and how does your engineering education from Waterloo help with your life today?
I currently work on Global E-commerce Operations at ATS Corporation. At the University of Waterloo, my software engineering studies gave me a solid technical foundation, which I now draw on daily. Courses like Game Theory and Entrepreneurship taught me the importance of balancing technical skills with strategic decision-making. My education during the pandemic shaped me into a better person by challenging me to go beyond technical skills, fostering a resilient and well-rounded mindset. Volunteering and community work also became essential parts of my experience, motivating me to keep learning and giving back. Waterloo taught me that some of the most meaningful lessons come from the connections we build and the pursuit of continuous growth, which I now draw on daily.
Why did you decide to be a part of REAC?
I decided to join REAC to give back to the Waterloo Engineering community that supported me during my time at the university. The resourceful, collaborative and growth-oriented environment I experienced as a student was invaluable. Now as an alumni, I want to help fill the gap by fostering those same connections and opportunities. REAC allows me to contribute to initiatives that support young alumni while continuing to grow personally and professionally.
What is a favourite piece of advice or quote that you would be interested in sharing?
"You see things; and you say, 'Why?' But I dream of things that never were; and I say, 'Why not?'". by George Bernard Shaw. I saw this close to Dana Porter Library and has stayed with me ever since. I look at my new project or to-do list, and think, “Why?”—because honestly, who wants to do half of this stuff? But then, I remember this and say, ‘Why not?’ So, I roll up my sleeves to get through the tasks, and find a new way to do it, making it a little more exciting.
What was your favourite place to eat at in Waterloo?
Noon Moment and their Mango Diamond Smoothie. It reminds me of the delicious mangoes of orchards in India. Friends say I am their marketing evangelist.
What's a skill, routine or habit that you picked up at UWaterloo that you didn’t expect to use in your career?
A weird but useful habit I picked up at Waterloo was scheduling even the smallest breaks almost every hour. With back-to-back classes, labs, and assignments, I’d sometimes slot in five-minute “breathers” and go for coffee or a walk. It helped me stay connected and avoid burnout. Funny enough, this habit stuck with me in my career, where blocking out time for breaks—even five minutes to stretch or take a quick walk—has become an essential part of working from home. It keeps my energy up and gives my mind a break so I can stay productive throughout the day.
What are your plans for the near future?
I’d love to travel, learn, explore, and keep building connections both personally and professionally. Balancing everything is definitely the plan for the next little while!
Do you have any specific professional or career goals that you are working towards?:
I’m working towards gaining expertise in product development where I can drive impactful digital transformations. I find it useful to pursue certifications in data science, AI, and advanced analytics to deepen my technical expertise. I’m also considering pursuing higher education to further enhance my skills in AI, product management and leadership capabilities.
Do you have any fun and/or interesting media recommendations? Could be a book, song, movie, documentary, videogame, etc.
I’d recommend "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" by Douglas Adams. It’s a quirky, satirical sci-fi adventure that explores the absurdity of life, the universe, and everything, with a healthy dose of humor and wit. Another great one is "Good Omens" by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett. It's a hilarious and clever take on the apocalypse, featuring an angel and demon teaming up to prevent the end of the world.