Aiyanna Singhal is a third-year majoring in computer science and engineering in the College of Engineering. Singhal took time to share insights into her experience at Ohio State.
How did you choose Ohio State?
I chose Ohio State primarily for its esteemed engineering program. Conversations with seniors who were already studying at Ohio State highlighted the numerous opportunities available, including internships and networking. I sought a large university environment where I could connect with a diverse range of students and faculty.
Columbus also appealed to me as a dynamic city with a variety of companies actively recruiting Ohio State graduates. Additionally, the prospect of engaging in extracurricular activities, such as clubs, study abroad programs, and other initiatives, was very attractive. Overall, it seemed like the perfect fit for both my academic and personal development.
How was the process of joining the Ohio State community?
Ohio State offers a lot of valuable resources throughout the admissions process and beyond. Initially, after receiving my acceptance letter, the Office of International Affairs was incredibly helpful. They organized Zoom calls with current students, which provided firsthand insights about campus life and fostered connections among admitted students. Additionally, exploring college websites and watching past student YouTube videos greatly improved my understanding of Ohio State.
How has your classroom learning experience been?
The classroom learning experience has been excellent and quite different from the Indian education system. At Ohio State, we rely less on traditional textbooks, often utilizing online resources instead. Assignments and homework contribute significantly to our grades, and many projects are team-based. This approach has been beneficial, as it reduces the pressure of exams and promotes a more thorough understanding of the material. Instead of cramming information right before a test, I find myself engaged with the content throughout the semester.
Additionally, the emphasis on teamwork mirrors how companies operate, preparing engineers to collaborate effectively in professional settings. These experiences have also been networking opportunities and helped me learn from my peers. Although the transition was initially challenging, I’ve grown to appreciate this new learning environment.
How do you set yourself up for success?
Over the past year, I’ve focused on effectively managing my time to navigate my educational journey while staying connected with friends, colleagues, faculty, and other professional contacts. I typically plan my weeks and create to-do lists, which allow me to allocate time for family, friends, and hobbies like reading, listening to music, and watching movies.
Staying in touch with colleagues has been easy since most students share similar classes, so you are bound to see familiar faces in lectures, events, and generally around campus. The same applies to faculty members, as regular interactions in class foster those connections. Additionally, career fairs have been invaluable for maintaining relationships with professional contacts. The same industry representatives often attend these events, providing a great opportunity to get to know them and keep in touch.
What resources are available on campus?
I have made extensive use of various campus resources. Organizations such as the Office of Student Life, the College of Engineering, Housing Communities, and the Ohio Union Activities Board (OUAB) have been particularly beneficial. With over 1,500 clubs on campus, there’s an abundance of activities and opportunities to engage with, making it easy to find a community and pursue my interests. Each of these resources has significantly enriched my experience at Ohio State.
How has Ohio State prepared you for your future career?
Ohio State has significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth. The curriculum has equipped me with essential technical skills relevant to my field, and also soft skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving. These skills are essential for success in the corporate world.
Moreover, my experiences here have taught me to be more responsible and adaptable, which I believe are crucial attributes for any career. The diverse community has allowed me to build a strong network of peers and mentors, leading to valuable friendships and connections that I will cherish for years to come.
In addition to academics, the numerous extracurricular opportunities, such as internships and industry events, have provided practical experience and insights into the professional landscape. Overall, my time at Ohio State has not only prepared me for my future career but has also shaped me into a well-rounded individual ready to take on new challenges.
What was your internship experience like?
One major highlight of my journey so far was my internship last summer as a software engineering intern at ABB in Cary, North Carolina. This experience was incredibly rewarding and marked a significant milestone in my professional development. Working at ABB not only enhanced my technical skills but also allowed me to apply what I learned at Ohio State in a real-world setting. It was one of the best experiences I’ve had in the U.S., and it deepened my appreciation for the opportunities Ohio State has provided me.