When Gappan Annamalai '04 was choosing a college, The Ohio State University stood out almost immediately.
“Ohio State felt like the right option for me to pick—it was almost like it was meant to be,” Annamalai said.
Columbus reminded him of his home city of Bangalore, India—“not so small, yet not so big.” He was certain he did not want to live in a large city on the East or West Coast, and having family in the Midwest added to his sense of comfort. Ohio State’s balance between academics and student life also appealed to him.
“What really sold me was the description in the Peterson’s Guide that said, ‘Football is religion here,’” he said. “Even though I didn’t know much about football at the time, I was intrigued by the sport and the strategy.”
Twenty-five years later, Annamalai says he would not change a thing.
“There is nothing I would change about my decision and journey,” he said. “Ohio State has totally molded me into the person I am today.”
He credits the university with shaping his independence, confidence and sense of identity. The academic program was demanding, requiring him to push himself to graduate, but the experience proved transformative.
“That experience by itself was overwhelming and taught me a lot,” he said.
Beyond the classroom, Annamalai was immersed in campus life. He described the atmosphere at Ohio State as unmatched—one that ensures graduates “bleed scarlet and gray.” While scarlet became part of him by blood, he said the gray, symbolizing neutrality, balance and sophistication, became central to his character.
“Everywhere I go, I stand out thanks to this,” he said. “I proudly wear my Ohio State gear everywhere I travel in the world. No matter which corner of the world I am in, I get a ‘Go Bucks!’ That feeling is second to none.”
Annamalai calls his time at Ohio State “the best days of my life.” During his years on campus, the Buckeyes won the College Football National Championship, followed by a dominant stretch against rival Michigan.
“That was by far the best experience I’ve had—to feel like a champion,” he said.
Alongside his studies, including a family financial management major in the College of Human Ecology (now College of Education and Human Ecology) and an economics major in the College of Arts and Sciences, Annamalai worked in the Commons and with University Development, gaining professional experience that helped launch his career.
“These opportunities really gave me a platform for my professional career and built a strong work ethic in me at a young age,” he said.
He formed friendships that have endured decades, and he continues to visit friends around the world. He also makes a point to return to Columbus once or twice every three years.
“Going back lets me relive my glory days and catch up with friends,” he said. “It also ensures my Buckeye gear is fresh and up to date.”
After graduating in 2004, Annamalai returned to India, honoring a promise to his family. He spent nearly a decade in corporate roles, where his U.S. education and market exposure gave him an advantage, followed by another decade building startups. He later joined his 75-year-old family business as a third-generation leader.
His home and office are filled with Ohio State memorabilia, reminders of a place he says he never truly left behind. That connection deepened when he joined the Ohio State Alumni Club of India, becoming active in the South India Chapter and eventually serving as vice president.
“This is my way of giving back,” Annamalai said. “Along with other passionate alumni, I help strengthen the Ohio State brand and legacy in a different part of the world and help alumni connect, network and guide future Buckeyes.”
He remains deeply grateful to both the university and the city that shaped him.
“I’m very thankful to Ohio State and Columbus for being such a significant part of my life,” he said. “I hope my kids will continue the legacy and connection with Ohio.”