Q&A: Graduate Student Sanal Cheripuram on His New Role as GSA President

Sanal Cheripuram has high expectations for the Graduate Student Association (GSA). In his new role as GSA president, he says, “I want the students of NYIT to have an esprit de corps that is unlike any other higher education institution.”

Originally from Syosset, N.Y., he received his bachelor’s in business administration at Hofstra while serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. He is now pursuing an M.B.A. at NYIT School of Management.

Cheripuram sat down with The Box to talk about the GSA, what he hopes to accomplish as president of the 2018-2019 academic year, and why graduate students should join.

Why did you want to run for GSA president?
I want to provide the absolute best tools, resources, and tips that students at NYIT can benefit from. This is about how the students of NYIT can acquire the skills, knowledge, and experiences that will propel them to new heights both inside and outside the classroom. I am willing to go above and beyond for the students of NYIT because they are the future.

What is the first order of business for you as the new GSA president?
I am planning a Back to School event on Wednesday, September 5, in Harry Schure Hall from 4 to 8:30 p.m. A variety of food and beverages will be served. NYIT’s graduate students usually work hard during the day and attend class at night, so they can stop by for some free, quality cuisine.

What do you hope to accomplish as president?
I want all NYIT students to be proud of where they go to school. I hope to achieve a greater sense of unity within the school that leads students to be more collaborative. This will strengthen their leadership skills so that when they enter the workforce they will be excellent brand ambassadors for NYIT.

What do you want people to know about the GSA?
GSA is the voice of the graduate students. We do everything from discussing concerns students have about their programs, with their department or program heads, voicing safety concerns at Town Hall meetings, hosting fun events to build community, present opportunities for volunteering, and creating opportunities for students to attend conferences that will further their careers. GSA can and is the “go to” for graduate students and students should not only take advantage but actively participate.

What kinds of events, services are available to members of the GSA?
GSA hosts events for all students, not just members. We have a few ideas we are developing for the academic year.

I am planning some charity events and devising more ways for students to get involved to serve their community. I feel that students who give back will have a unique sense of fulfillment and be more inspired to pursue their goals.

Of course, ideas are always welcome via email at GSAOW@nyit.edu.

Why should students join the GSA?
Members have the unique opportunity to make a direct impact through creating new events and programs for students as well was being right in the center of change at NYIT.

How can students join?
Email GSAOW@nyit.edu for an application.

Is there anything you would like to add?
I want to see students helping each other out. College students showcase their commitment to excellence by pursuing higher level education but in order to truly grow as a leader and individual each NYIT student must be dedicated to taking care of one another both inside the classroom and in the real world.

This interview has been edited and condensed.