Graduate Profile: The Sky is the Limit

After Nigam Bopanna received his bachelor’s degree in Dental Surgery in India, he was eager to contribute to the health care system as much as possible to help improve outcomes. A mentor suggested Governors State University to further his education. 

Graduating with a Master of Science in Health Informatics, Bopanna is on his way to achieving his career goals and personal goals, including earning an aviation license.

GSU Newsroom: What brought you to GSU?

Bopanna: I completed my bachelor’s degree in Dental Surgery in India. Being an international student, I faced a lot of challenges to get here. While I searched for colleges in the U.S. that offered Health Informatics, my counsellor recommended Governors State which was one of the few institutes that I felt had a good informatics program. Right from the application process to my orientation, everyone I came across was welcoming and that comforted me. The personal connection that I felt with GSU on my first day shaped my growth both academically and professionally.

GSU Newsroom: What are some of the highlights from your time at GSU?

Bopanna: I am glad to have arrived at GSU in spring 2020, before the pandemic and that allowed me to spend time on campus. Though my stay at GSU has largely been online I have actively been involved in various activities. I was selected as the President of the Students Health Care Management Association (SHCMA), Treasurer of the International Culture Organization and I am currently an active member of the Graduate Student Mental Health and Well-being Committee. I am also a graduate assistant in New Student Programs and this role has developed and improved a lot of soft skills in me.

GSU Newsroom: Who were some of the professors who shaped your experience and your future?

Bopanna: My parents have played a significant role in who I am today. Many professors have guided and helped me throughout my career as well. Out of many, Dr. Nafees Qamar and Dr. Angelette Evans have played an important role at GSU. Dr. Qamar has not only been my academic advisor but also been my pillar of strength whenever I faced any challenges. Being an international student, I was clueless about how to go about many things, and he was the one who understood me and guided me throughout.

GSU Newsroom: What's next after graduation?

Bopanna: After graduation, I want to contribute as much as possible to the health care industry that would help improve outcomes. Since I have knowledge both in the clinical side and informatics side of health care, I am confident to deal with any challenges that the health care industry might throw at me. Besides, health care, I have an interest in aviation and that has been a dream of mine since childhood. One day, I hope to at least obtain a private pilot license.

GSU Newsroom: What advice would you give GSU students?

Bopanna: I firmly believe what author Tim Johnson said, “There is no end to learning, but there are many beginnings.” I feel we must not limit ourselves. Some advice I would like to give to Governors State students is to keep trying something new. Facing a different challenge every day, rather than solving the same type of challenge each day, is what will make a difference. There are tons of career options and it's upon you to choose what keeps you happy. If you are happy with what you do, you automatically succeed in life.