Making a Difference
New York Tech-Long Island Student Government Association (SGA) President Anoushka Guha has dreams of becoming a doctor and serving others. She’s already gotten a head start on helping others by helping bolster the Student Emergency Fund. She sat down with The Box to talk about why she joined the SGA, why she chose the Life Sciences, B.S./Osteopathic Medicine, D.O. program, and her advice for incoming students.
Why did you choose New York Tech?
When I first visited the school, I felt welcomed by the students and faculty. I saw so much opportunity for my studies, and the many different clubs piqued my interest. It felt as if the university truly wanted me to succeed as a student and that I had so much potential to pursue my interests in research, medicine, and extracurriculars.
What have been your most rewarding experiences at New York Tech?
My involvement and growth in the Student Government Association have been rewarding. Being in such an integral club on campus has provided me a place to grow my skills in leadership, teamwork, and my own confidence. It still feels unreal that I am the president, but I am excited to make a change, connect with students, and make New York Tech the best it can be! Another very rewarding experience is conducting research at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYITCOM). Working in the medical school has given me a glimpse into my future and motivates me every day to continue my path.
Why did you join the SGA and what have you done through being a part of SGA?
I joined SGA because I wanted to make a difference on campus and have the ability to connect with all the clubs and students. Since I came to New York Tech, it was my dream to sit on the executive board of SGA. As a freshman, I looked at the board as my role models. Starting as a senator of the College of Arts and Sciences, I transitioned into the role of SGA secretary this past school year. And now, I am starting my transition into SGA president. The SGA has already achieved many goals, including donating $10,0000 to the Student Emergency Fund; starting the Presidents’ Round Table, which allows students to voice their opinions to President Hank Foley; and meeting with Campus Dining and Counseling and Wellness to advocate for students.
What projects have you worked on at New York Tech? Can you tell us about them?
I started by working on a project investigating the cardiotoxic effects of an anti-cancer drug and how AMPK [AMP-activated protein kinase] plays a cardioprotective role. This year, I presented this research at SOURCE [Symposium of University Research and Creative Expression]. Following this project, I jump-started another project on diabetes. This project investigates the effects of mitophagy (mitochondrial breakdown) in diabetic cells. This diabetes research was very inspiring and what I have always wanted to work on from a young age. I hope to present this work at the end of the summer and publish an abstract.
How is New York Tech preparing you for the future?
New York Tech is preparing me by providing all the opportunities for many different paths. At New York Tech, the faculty really care about you and help you achieve your full potential. The seven-year combined life sciences/osteopathic program has allowed me to stay on track for medical school. In addition, the SGA has connected me with many students, departments, and faculty and has provided me another home away from home.
What advice do you have for incoming students?
Do your best to put yourself out there. Join clubs and organizations, study groups, attend events, introduce yourself to faculty. There is so much potential for every student here at New York Tech, but you must initiate the first step. If you work hard toward any goal, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Make your dreams come true!
