How did BITS Pilani shape your goals and inspire you to pursue them after graduation? Mention a must-have skill that has a significant impact on your career development.

Attending BITS Pilani was a milestone that significantly shaped my personal and professional development. I entered as a Mechanical Engineering student with a passion for engineering and uncertainty about approaching my career path. The BITS curriculum, known for its rigor and constantly updated content, exposed me to the technical and analytical skills needed to excel in engineering while broadening my understanding of the interdisciplinary aspects of technology and management. Beyond academics, BITS taught me to step out of my comfort zone, especially when it came to public speaking and taking on leadership roles. In our culture, many of us aren’t naturally inclined to voice our opinions or showcase our talents openly, but BITS fostered an environment where I could gradually build my confidence. Engaging in classroom discussions, presenting projects, and participating in campus activities helped me overcome my initial hesitation and develop my ability to communicate effectively. This foundation of technical knowledge, coupled with newfound confidence and resilience, set me up for success in my future roles and equipped me with a growth mindset that I continue to apply in my career.

Tell us about what you do at TotalEnergies?

Today, I work in the procurement division of TotalEnergies, focusing on construction projects. My career has followed a somewhat unconventional path, from subcontracting work to facility management and procurement. Each position added to my understanding of the construction and project management landscape, and I found that the cumulative experience across these roles offered me a comprehensive, 360-degree perspective on industry operations. In procurement, I oversee the acquisition of goods and services that directly impact our projects' cost-effectiveness and efficiency. My role is not merely about sourcing materials at the best price; it involves ensuring we select suppliers and vendors aligned with TotalEnergies' quality standards, sustainability values, and project deadlines. Understanding the challenges from my time in facility management—like maintaining infrastructure and managing resource allocation—has proven invaluable. These insights enable me to negotiate strategically and make decisions that benefit our partners and TotalEnergies. This role has demanded adaptability, an eye for detail, and a solid understanding of the supply chain, skills that BITS laid the groundwork for but which I further developed throughout my career.

Could you share a memorable project or research experience you have undertaken at BITS? What values have you learned through this experience, and how have these qualities shaped you?

One of my most memorable experiences at BITS was organizing ‘Showdown’, a weekly, campus-wide dance event. The idea was simple yet impactful: a one-minute face-off where participants could showcase their dance skills in a high-energy, supportive environment. Planning and executing Showdown each week required a lot of coordination and effort. It was a challenging process, from arranging the logistics to getting permission from campus authorities. Convincing the administration was challenging, as it involved addressing concerns about safety, noise, and maintaining order, but we demonstrated the positive impact it could have on campus culture. Eventually, we gained approval, and the event became many students' highlight of the week. Showdown was not just about dancing; it was a platform that brought together students from different disciplines and years, encouraging diversity and unity. Watching the enthusiasm, teamwork, and creativity this event inspired among participants and audience members alike made it incredibly rewarding. This experience taught me valuable lessons in event management, negotiation, and team coordination — skills that benefitted my personal and professional life.

Can you discuss any extracurricular activities or organizations you have participated in at the university? How did the experience enhance your values and skills, and how have they helped you today?

My extracurricular involvement, notably as president of the dance club, was another significant aspect of my time at BITS. The dance club was more than just a place to practice; it was a community where we learned discipline, dedication, and creativity. As president, I oversaw various club activities, organized events, and collaborated with members on performances. We participated in inter-college competitions, organized dance workshops, and hosted performances that brought together the entire campus. Leading the club required balancing the responsibilities of a leader with the enjoyment of being part of a team. I had to ensure that everyone was motivated, that we kept pushing our creative boundaries, and that we represented BITS in a way that made us proud. These experiences strengthened my organizational skills, taught me the importance of teamwork, and improved my confidence in managing group dynamics. Beyond the technical aspects of dance, I gained a deeper understanding of leadership and empathy, which have been instrumental in navigating my career and fostering positive work relationships.

Handling multiple responsibilities tends to take a toll on a person. What do you do apart from taxing work to de-stress? Mention any volunteering work undertaken in your leisure time.

Managing stress at BITS requires consciously balancing my academic and extracurricular commitments. The rigorous demands of the mechanical engineering curriculum could often be overwhelming, but engaging in activities like dance and sports was crucial to maintaining my mental and physical health. Dance, in particular, was a creative outlet that allowed me to express myself freely and decompress from academic pressures. I also made time for sports, as staying physically active helped me maintain energy and focus. Balancing these interests with my studies taught me the importance of setting aside time for personal relaxation and renewal. At BITS, I learned that productivity isn't about working tirelessly; it's about understanding when to take a break and return with a fresh perspective. This approach to stress management has stayed with me throughout my career, where balancing work commitments with self-care remains essential.

What advice would you give current engineering students at BITS Pilani to make the most of their time there?

I advise current BITS students to embrace every opportunity, even if it doesn’t seem directly related to their career path. The knowledge and skills you acquire now — whether in the classroom, in a club, or at an event—contribute to your long-term growth in ways you may not immediately realize. Each step along the way, even in roles that felt disconnected from my ultimate goals, contributed to my broader understanding of the industry and refined my skill set. BITS offers a diverse, enriching environment, so make the most of it. Develop your technical skills and cultivate interpersonal and leadership skills, which are invaluable in any professional setting. Trust the process that BITS provides and the journey you’re on. It’s easy to feel uncertain or overwhelmed, but with time, you’ll see that each experience adds to a solid foundation. Looking back, you’ll appreciate how BITS prepared you to tackle challenges, adapt to new environments, and seize unexpected opportunities.