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Hiranmayee Panchangam

MS Information Science with a concentration in Information Systems


Hiranmayee PanchangamHiranmayee (Hira) Panchangam, a determined student majoring in Information Science with a concentration in Information Systems at the University of North Texas (UNT), embarked on a unique journey shaped by the unforeseen circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. While her academic path was momentarily paused due to an opportunity in India, her resilience and adaptability transformed her into a beacon of success amidst the trials of distance and cultural disparity. Separated by seven oceans from her familiar surroundings, Hira found herself in the throes of uncertainty, grappling with the challenges of solitude and unfamiliarity. Yet, within the confines of her home, she discovered the strength to emerge from her shell and embrace the journey towards independence. 

Initially seeking employment at dining services to sustain herself, Hira's fortunes took a turn when she secured a job in UNT Academic Technologies due to her past experience working in India along with a computer science undergraduate degree. Later she won the College of Information’s Melba S. Harvill scholarship, enabling her family to allocate resources towards her sister's marriage since she earned an in-state tuition waiver along with the schoalrship, greatly lowering the financial burden of her education. 

Despite the geographical distance, Hiranmayee 's dedication remained unwavering as she ventured into the competitive realm of job interviews, ultimately landing a coveted position at CAS IT. Transitioning from the cutthroat environment of Indian workplaces to the nurturing landscape of American corporate culture, Hiranmayee discerned the stark contrasts between the two. While India demanded tenacity and resilience, the United States offered opportunities for on-the-job learning and professional growth. Confronted initially by language and accent barriers, Hira relied on her technical acumen and effective communication to bridge the divide. Soon she was promoted to Service Desk Technician providing technical customer service across campus to the entire UNT community as a result of her fast learning and hard work.

Hira imparts invaluable advice to fellow students, advocating for immersion in extracurricular activities while remaining steadfast in academic pursuits. She underscores the importance of embracing diverse experiences without losing sight of one's educational aspirations. Through Hiranmayee 's narrative, we glean insights into the transformative power of perseverance and adaptability in navigating the complexities of global transitions. Her journey exemplifies the triumph of the human spirit amidst adversity, serving as an inspiration to aspiring scholars and professionals alike