Among the crowds of students and faculty, one professor stands out, Dr. Nirmal Soundararajan, or as many students affectionately call her Dr. Nimi for short.  Getting the opportunity to sit down with this exceptional professor and speak to her about being a professor at SOSU and how she came about a career in computer science was such a privilege.  

She has received a bachelor’s in computer science and engineering at Karnataka University in India, a master’s in digital Electronics from Visveswaraya Technological University in India, and Doctorate in Computer Science at Towson University in India.  

Soundararajan talked about what motivated her to pursue a degree in computer science. 

• What motivated you to pursue a career in computer science?

“Initially, it wasn’t the plan to go into Computer Science, but I followed her friends in the 10th and 11th grade to pursue a science degree.” 

• What are some of the benefits and drawbacks of working in a different country than your own?

“There are a lot of culture differences between India and the U.S, it can be a drawback and benefit both. English was not a big issue because India has been ruled by the British. Hence, we were used to the English language. Another benefit is education is more flexible in the U.S.”

• Are there barriers that you faced as a woman in this field and how did you overcome them? Were there any to overcome as someone from another country?

“No, as a woman there were no barriers. In fact, there are more barriers in India.”

• What are some of the goals or aspirations that you have for yourself and for women in academia in general?

“I would like to see more American girls in computer science. I would like to start a movement called Girls in Computer Science. G.I.C.S.” 

• How do you mentor or support other women in your field or institution? I am mentoring a student for pursuing research for a scholarship?

“I provide support letters for those who want to pursue a career in computer science.”