Sama Parimala: Dreams and gratitude
Graduate Profile
Solving puzzles of data is where Sama Parimala shines and at Governors State University (GovState) she was able to polish her skills in the Business Analytics program. Diving into student life on campus, Sama tried various clubs and volunteered for more.
Throughout her GovState journey, Sama found a community who had her back and motivated her to keep chasing her goals. She hopes to one day pay back the support she received. With graduation fast approaching, Sama looks forward to using her degree to build upon her experience with data and help people along the way.
GovState Newsroom: What attracted you to GovState?
Sama: GovState sits on 750 acres of natural beauty, with tons of trees, grassy fields, and wide-open spaces that make it a peaceful spot. The air’s fresh, and the skies are bright and clear, giving it a refreshing vibe every day. What makes it even better is the people—everyone from the administration and staff to the faculty and students works together like a tight-knit crew. Transportation keeps things running smoothly with shuttles, while DPS (Department of Public Safety) makes sure the campus stays safe. The facilities team keeps everything clean and comfy, and all the departments pitch in to support each other. It’s a huge, welcoming place where you feel right at home. It’s more than a school—it’s a family. the Dean’s office, CSEIP (Center for Student Engagement and Intercultural Programs), and Wellness Center who truly changed my life. They didn’t just help—they went above and beyond, lifting me up when I needed it most. I owe them a lot, and one day, I’ll come back as an alumna to return my own “thank you” and give back to this amazing community.
GovState Newsroom: What's your degree and why did you choose it?
Sama: I’m earning a Master’s in Business Analytics because data is my magic—it turns questions into answers and dreams into plans. I chose this degree to grow my skills and make a difference. In India, I worked with data, building chatbots and dashboards. It felt like solving puzzles, and I loved it. This degree is my chance to do bigger things and help people in new ways.
GovState Newsroom: What clubs and/or activities were you involved with? Any memories stick out with one of them?
Sama: I jumped into everything! I was a grad assistant, international student representative from Student Senate, Vice President, event planner, member of more than 20+ clubs, and a volunteer for so many clubs and organizations. My favorite memory is Homecoming—the campus was alive with music, lights, and laughter. I felt so happy, thinking, “This is our moment, our joy.” It was like a big celebration with my favorite people.
GovState Newsroom: What are your dreams for your degree?
Sama: I dream of using data to build something amazing—like developing my dad’s business back in South India, where I come from a Telugu-speaking family. I want to take his hard work and turn it into something bigger, showing the world what a Telugu girl can do. This degree is my power to make him proud, break barriers, and prove that with determination, a Telugu girl can achieve anything.
GovState Newsroom: What advice would you give to current and/or future GovState students?
Sama: Jump in and don’t hold back! Join clubs, meet people, and take up the tough days—they make you stronger. GovState is a family—if you stumble, someone will catch you. So, laugh, learn, and let this place shape you. You’re never alone here.
GovState Newsroom: How are you celebrating your graduation?
Sama: I’ll celebrate with my Govstate friends, staff, faculty, and mentors (ALL)—the people who made this journey unforgettable. We’ll eat, laugh, and maybe dance in Grad week celebrations. It’s not just a party; it’s a “thank you” to everyone who believed in me. This day belongs to all of us.
GovState Newsroom: What’s the silliest or most memorable thing that happened to you during your GovState experience?
Sama: One winter day, I—a girl from a small village, saw snow for the first time and slipped on ice while running for the shuttle. I fell hard but laughed harder! It was messy and funny, but it taught me something big: GovState showed me how to stand up, smile, and keep going, no matter what.
This is my story—simple, real, and full of gratitude. GovState didn’t just teach me; it lifted me. And now, I’m ready to lift others, too.