Nelumdini S, Ph.D. Learning Technologies

COI: What is your current major, degree plan, and professional concentration?
Nelumdini: I am currently a PhD candidate in the Learning Technology Department 

COI: Why did you apply for this scholarship and what made you think you were a good match for it?
Nelumdini: I applied for the scholarship to support my doctoral degree

COI: What are some highlights of your time in the program so far? Do you want to shout out to any specific courses or professors who have helped you along the way?
Nelumdini: I have been a long-standing student in the Learning Technology Department. I started my bachelor's in applied technology and performance improvement (2016), my Master's in (2018), and started pursuing my Ph.D. in (2020). I have enjoyed the program and the knowledge gained throughout the years. Being a full-time employee, wife, mom, and student has not been easy, but the program's design and structure made it easy for me to plan, take the challenges along the way and succeed.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the professors who have dedicated themselves to my success throughout the years and encouraged me to pursue my passion for taking learning and technology to the most needed people in the world.

COI: What are your career plans after graduation?
Nelumdini: I work for UNTHSC as an instructional tech specialist in the Department of Medical Education and Health System Science under the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine (TCOM). I plan to grow within my department and give back the knowledge I received from UNT to benefit the department, faculty, and community.

COI: Can you share any big successes you’ve had or obstacles you’ve overcome?
Nelumdini: My dream is to bridge learning and technology to better serve communities that do not have access to education. I found the exact three locations rural, developing, and underrepresented societies mentioned in my dissertation within my department. Finding these locations was a big step in helping the upliftment of communities moving forward with my future research. I am thankful to all who supported and encouraged me in the process.