GKII JHU India Networking Event: An Overview

On Friday, October 4, 2024, the JHU India community will come together for the inaugural GKII JHU India Networking Event, celebrating connections among students, alumni, and faculty with ties to India. All JHU students are invited to engage in this unique opportunity for mentorship and networking, hosted by the Gupta-Klinsky India Institute at JHU.

We sat down with the GKII organizing team to break down this first-of-its-kind student-alumni interaction open to all JHU students, alumni and faculty with an Indian connection.

Q: What inspired the creation of the GKII JHU India Networking Event?
A: This event stems from our belief in the immense potential of the JHU India community. By connecting students, alumni, and faculty, we aim to harness the diverse talents and experiences of individuals who have emerged from some of the best institutes and professions in India. We want to create an environment where these connections can flourish and lead to collaborative opportunities.

Q: Why is the theme of mentorship so important for this event?
A: Mentorship is at the heart of personal and professional growth. It’s also important to remember that there is no “one-size-fits-all” for mentorship – in fact, “flash mentoring” experiences can often be less intimidating and a great way to start establishing connections that may lead to more “formal” and “traditional” mentorship relationships in the future.  The first step reaching out and establishing meaningful connections when opportunities present themselves This event highlights how sharing insights and experiences can create lasting bonds and foster collaborative endeavors. By connecting with members of our JHU India community, attendees can explore their interests and ambitions and pave the way for future success in their academic and professional journeys.

Q: Can you tell us more about the alumni and student speakers at the event?
A: We are thrilled to feature a diverse group of JHU alumni who have made significant contributions in their fields. Some of our featured speakers include:

  • Digvijay Singh (WSE ‘20) – Head of Products at Drizzle Health, leading innovation in global healthcare solutions.
  • Eishita Pal (BSPH ‘23) – Research Assistant at the BESAFE Project, focusing on combatting substandard and falsified drugs.
  • Purva Khanna (SAIS ‘25) – A JHU SAIS student and Bloomberg Summer Scholar with the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation, working at the City of Cincinnati, Office of Environment and Sustainability 

Each speaker will share insights from their professional journey, providing valuable advice for building connections and mentorship opportunities.

Q: What advice do you have for students looking to make the most out of this event?
A: We encourage students to approach the event with intention. Here are three tips:

  1. Define Your Vision: Reflect on what you want to achieve through mentorship and set actionable goals.
  2. Engage Actively: Make the most of the networking opportunities by initiating conversations and showing genuine interest in others’ experiences.
  3. Nurture Connections: Building relationships doesn’t stop at the event. Follow up with those you meet, share insights, and continue the dialogue to foster meaningful collaborations. (GKII JHU India Student & Alumni Mentorship Group is our exclusive platform to stay in touch!)

Q: What are the long-term goals for GKII following this event?
A: We see this event as the beginning of a larger conversation within the JHU India ecosystem. Feedback and insights from attendees will help us design future events and initiatives that align with the interests of the GKII community. For example, we’re planning our first virtual “speed mentoring” event this spring to bring together our U.S. and India students and alumni. We also want to empower and support students and alumni to pursue leadership roles with GKII by organizing special-interest meet-ups and events that serve the greater JHU India community. Our aim is to continually enhance engagement and mentorship opportunities for students and alumni alike.

Q: How can attendees prepare for this unique networking experience?
A: Attendees should come prepared with a clear vision for mentorship and their goals. Engaging in conversations, asking questions, and being open to new connections will enrich their experience. Finally, staying in touch with new acquaintances post-event through will help solidify those relationships and create pathways for future collaboration.

P.S.  Even if you aren’t able to join us in person, you can still be part of GKII’s JHU India network by joining our and engaging with our discussions, resources and members.