Our Bureau
Manhattan, NY
The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Manhattan Chapter successfully hosted its highly anticipated “College and Beyond” Panel Discussion on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, New York. The event brought together students, parents, educators, young professionals, community leaders, and guests for an engaging afternoon of learning, mentorship, and career guidance.
The program was designed to help students and young professionals navigate the evolving landscape of higher education, career planning, internships, leadership development, networking, and professional success. The event received an overwhelming response from the community, with attendees actively participating throughout the session.
GOPIO Manhattan was honored to welcome an accomplished panel of professionals representing diverse industries and career paths. The panel featured the following persons: Mihir Sanghavi, a senior engineering leader specializing in AI, machine learning, and large-scale software systems; Brian Thomas, a Junior at New York University Stren Schol of Business; Shashank Shamshabad, a public servant and recent graduate of Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (MPA); Vinisha Patel, a second-year medical student at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine; and Dr. Sonia Sharma, distinguished Hindi language educator, scholar, author, and pioneer in Hindi language education in the United States.
The discussion was skillfully moderated by Prof. Rajasekhar Vangapaty, President of GOPIO Manhattan, Professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), SUNY, and a dedicated educator and community leader.
The event opened with a warm welcome by GOPIO-Manhattan Vice President Vimal Goyle to attendees and an introduction to GOPIO Manhattan’s mission of empowering the community through education, leadership development, professional networking, and service. President Prof. Vangapaty emphasized the importance of preparing students not only for college admissions but also for long-term success in their careers and personal lives.
Throughout the panel discussion, speakers shared their personal journeys, challenges, lessons learned, and professional experiences. The conversation covered a broad range of topics including selecting college majors, adapting to changing job markets, developing leadership skills, securing internships, building professional networks, embracing emerging technologies including Artificial Intelligence, and maintaining personal well-being while pursuing ambitious goals.
One of the highlights of the event was the highly interactive question-and-answer session. Students and parents asked thoughtful questions regarding college admissions, career transitions, entrepreneurship, internship opportunities, graduate education, workplace expectations, and professional growth. The panelists provided practical advice, real-world examples, and actionable strategies that resonated strongly with the audience.
Prof. Rajasekhar Vangapaty (Moderator) emphasized the importance of lifelong learning, adaptability, and building meaningful professional networks. He encouraged students to remain curious, embrace new technologies, seek mentors, and continuously develop new skills throughout their careers.
Mihir Sanghavi, senior engineering leader specializing in AI, shared his experience across finance, cybersecurity, and enterprise technology highlighted that success is built on consistency, discipline, and perseverance. He advised students to focus on continuous improvement and long-term growth rather than seeking immediate results.
NYU Stern School of Business Junior Brian Thomas stressed the importance of communication, teamwork, and relationship-building. He reminded young professionals that technical skills are important, but strong interpersonal skills often distinguish successful leaders and professionals.
Next speaker, Shashank Shamshabad, a graduate of NYU with experience in Urban Policy and specialized in Technology, Media, and Communications, served as a Community Liaison in the New York City Council, a College Legislative Aide in the Mayor’s Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, and as an intern in the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives. Shashank encouraged students to embrace challenges and remain resilient in the face of setbacks. He shared that obstacles and failures are often valuable learning experiences that contribute to future success.
Touro College medical student Vinisha Patel believes the work of becoming a physician begins long before the clinic. As Chapter President of the Student Osteopathic Medical Association, she took that conviction to Capitol Hill at DO Day 2026.
Dr. Sonia Sharma, with over 20 years of university-level teaching experience, has taught Hindi as a second and foreign language at renowned institutions. She highlighted the importance of balancing professional achievement with personal well-being. She encouraged students to prioritize mental health, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and invest in personal development.
The panelists collectively emphasized that career success is not defined by a single achievement, degree, or job title. Rather, success is built through continuous learning, resilience, adaptability, meaningful relationships, strong character, and a commitment to lifelong growth.
Attendees expressed appreciation for the practical insights, candid discussions, and mentorship provided by the panelists. Many students noted that the event helped clarify their academic and career goals while providing inspiration and confidence for the future.
GOPIO Manhattan extends its sincere gratitude to all panelists, attendees, volunteers, sponsors, and community supporters who contributed to the success of this event. Special thanks are extended to Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan for hosting the program and providing an excellent venue for community engagement and learning.
As part of its ongoing commitment to education and professional development, GOPIO Manhattan plans to organize additional workshops, mentorship programs, career development sessions, leadership forums, and networking opportunities for students and professionals in the months ahead.
The success of the “College and Beyond” Panel Discussion reinforces GOPIO Manhattan’s mission of empowering the next generation through knowledge-sharing, mentorship, community engagement, and leadership development.
For more information about upcoming programs and membership opportunities, please contact GOPIO Manhattan or follow its community announcements.
