Q.You started with a Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering and an MSc in Economics, then moved into Management Information Systems (MIS). What led you to switch fields, and how did each experience shape you?
A.I always wanted to get into consulting and management, so I chose Economics. When you’re a dual degree student you eventually need to pick a path, and for me, that was an easy choice of Economics. I interned at Frost & Sullivan towards the end of my education in BITS and later worked in their Bangalore office. After my wedding, I moved to Shanghai and continued working from their China office. However, I aspired to pursue my Masters in the US and began exploring the right career path and universities.
One of my good friends from BITS, Anirudh Gorthi, who completed his MIS from CMU, encouraged me to consider MIS and recommended UIC, as my husband was moving to Chicago for his MBA.
Towards the end of my MIS program, I wanted to focus on Management and Information Security roles rather than coding. I targeted opportunities at the Big Four but was initially unsure about the right role fit. The journey demanded persistence, especially after facing multiple rejections while trying to break into the US job market. Eventually, I discovered an Advisory Consulting role that some MIS seniors had secured and decided to apply through a referral. I reached out to Gautham Paladugu, my Economics BITS senior at Deloitte, who kindly referred me. The next day, I received an interview call and the rest is history.
Q.What extra-curricular activities or campus groups impacted you most at BITS?
A.I was shy at first, but performed at the freshers party even though I was never part of the Dance Club. Later, I joined the Department of Publicity and Public Relations, doing PR work for Waves and other fests, which became my favorite department and gave me a sense of belonging.
Q.In your view, what makes the BITS Goa campus special compared to other institutions?
A.Goa itself! We were the third batch so we had amazing new facilities, and the people and friends made it special. The campus and Goa have their own unique vibe that is unlike any other institution in India, and coupled with the very close knit culture amongst your peers, BITS Goa stands out.
Q.Given the rapid changes in privacy and AI globally, why do you think people must actively prepare?
A.During my time at Deloitte, I built privacy and security programs across finance, tech, and pharma. The arrival of GDPR was a turning point. It reshaped global expectations around data protection. With regulations expanding and AI accelerating, staying informed is essential. Privacy Professionals must continually learn and apply privacy-by-design from the start. Engaging in privacy communities like the IAPP and conferences provide real-time insights and thought leadership that sustain credibility, compliance, and trust.
Q.How much did the BITS name and alumni network help you, and would your growth have been possible without them?
A.The BITS alumni network is incredibly helpful and connected. Everyone goes out of their way, and no one is too busy to help. Anirudh, my best friend, encouraged and connected me with seniors who helped with referrals. This willingness to help is unique to BITS, and the resilience and engineering mindset stick with you beyond college, even if you change fields.
Q.What has been your biggest challenge living and working abroad?
A.Immigration is the hardest. Work visas are a lottery and green card processes are tough. There’s some subtle racism, but diverse communities in places like New York and New Jersey help you feel at home. The always welcoming BITSian community is an amazing resource especially when moving abroad.
Q.If you could meet your younger self again, what mindset shift advice would you share?
A.In school, I overworked myself, leading to insomnia and depression, and that affected my early years at BITS. Only a close friend knew, but positive friends and supportive parents helped. My advice: be kind to yourself, stay positive, and remember it’s okay to make mistakes. Never give up on yourself and don’t take yourself too seriously; stay grounded and around positive people.
Q.What areas do you see yourself focusing on in privacy/data in the next few years?
A.Definitely AI and the privacy challenges around it, plus exploring product management for privacy-focused products. The tech sector changes fast and layoffs are frequent, so transferable skills and constant upskilling are necessary.
Q.What practical steps can students take for better career clarity?
A.First, figure out what seniors and peers are doing, talk to them, and list out options. Ask yourself what truly excites you. Weigh your options carefully, not by what others are doing, but by your interests. Mistakes are okay, just make well-thought out choices.
Q.How should students deal with imposter syndrome, and what can their peers do to help?
A.Everyone faces imposter syndrome. Remember the hard work that got you here and don’t define yourself by luck alone. Give your best, be open in discussing mental health, and support each other without judgment.
Q.How do you manage personal life and work, especially as a mother and high-impact professional?
A.Juggling motherhood with demanding roles was hard, and moving from Deloitte to Meta was a strategic move for better balance. Having support systems like childcare and understanding managers helps, and the culture at Meta is respectful of personal time.
Q.What advice do you have for students aiming for roles in consulting, privacy, or following a path like yours?
If you like problem solving and learning about privacy and cybersecurity, consulting is a great path. Early on, focus on building skills, not chasing titles or money. Learn as much as you can, as skills make you adaptable. For me, Anirudh’s advice and BITS connections were pivotal. Don’t underestimate the power of networking and hands-on learning. There is no substitute for hard work. Your network is crucial, so be strategic about whom you connect with and never give up. Stay focused on your goals and keep working toward them.