NIT Alumni: Where are they now? ...with Shreya Desai, Class 23
Todays' alumna is an almost-alumna. Since the idea of this portrait is to give you an idea of all the people in your community, why not get to know the alumni newbies? Also, Shreya is looking for her job entry – maybe she is your next new colleague?
Shreya Desai, Class 23
I worked at the NIT from 1999 (beginning with NIT Class 01) until 2015 as a Manager Educational & Student affairs as well as Associate Director.
Current place of residence: Hamburg, Germany
Currently working as: Concentrating on finishing her studies right now, Shreya could be your next new colleague!
Where are you currently working and what is the biggest issue that you are facing at work or what is currently keeping you busy there?
I was a working student at Northland Power Inc. a few weeks back, and I had the opportunity to work on the topic of “Literature Review of the Risk Management Tools for the offshore wind industry” as part of my master's thesis. The biggest issue I faced during this time was managing expectations of the project from both the company and the department from NIT/TUHH. To address this, I facilitated communication through frequent feedback meetings and documented summaries. This ensured alignment with both the company and the university. Despite initial challenges, navigating through trials and errors led us to a common ground for the research question, allowing the project to progress.
Has there been a professional challenge since you were a student for which your studies or experiences at the NIT have prepared you for perfectly? You are still officially a student but I am sure that you can already answer that question, looking at your working student positions, etc.
I have several instances at work where I have used the skills acquired from the NIT courses, and even just the interaction with my friends and staff at the NIT. For example for my master's thesis, I used my learnings from the Foundations of Business Management and Financial Performance, particularly for the market research of Risk Management tools and I narrowed down options based on relevant parameters. During defense presentations, techniques from Sabine's Self Development and Communication Class were instrumental.
What is happening in your private life next to your final studying days at the NIT?
It has been just a little while (2 months to be precise) since I graduated. Two months post-graduation, I've had a brief period to explore personal pursuits. Engaging in more travel post-studies has been a highlight. Currently, my focus is on honing my German language skills, improving in badminton, and actively participating in volunteer work through the Rotaract Club.
What is your most precious / special / remarkable memory from your time studying at the NIT?
My cherished moments at the NIT revolve around Karaoke nights with friends. The vibrant and open atmosphere fostered friendships across different generations of NIT students. These sessions were not just entertaining but created enduring memories. Additionally, the diverse NIT community enriched my experiences, enabling celebrations of Diwali, Eid, Christmas, and various other festivals.
You are looking for a job entry position right now. If you could tell your dream job to a fairy for her to make it come true: what is it that you are looking for?
A job that is an intersection of environmental engineering and business management. My internships and student jobs have reinforced my interest in the field of sustainability. If I were to articulate this aspiration to a fairy, I'd convey my eagerness to be part of a purpose-driven initiative, where the products, processes, or overarching vision make a meaningful impact on the world. With the skillset and knowledge gained from the university and work experience, I see my skills and interests will find a perfect fit in the product management team and supply chain management team of an environmentally conscious company.
How to keep in touch with me:
Via LinkedIn.
Photo below: Shreya at SummerBBQ 2022 with her Classmates Doruk from Turkey, Antoine from France & Sadia from Bangladesh.