The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin – Connecticut Chapter (GOPIO-CT) hosted its annual Youth and Young Professionals Luncheon & Networking Event on Tuesday, December 24, 2025, bringing together high school students, college undergraduates, graduate students, parents, and professionals for an engaging afternoon of mentorship, guidance, and networking.
Held at the Hampton Inn & Suites, the program focused on helping young people navigate critical academic and personal transitions. Designed as a practical and interactive forum, the event sought to demystify the college admissions process, offer an honest look at university life, and provide actionable strategies for long-term academic success and career development.
The highlight of the afternoon was a panel discussion titled “College and Beyond,” which featured students and professionals from leading universities and industries. The session was moderated by Subha Pandalai, Head of IT at J.M. Wright Technical High School, Stamford, who guided a candid and wide-ranging conversation tailored to students at different stages of their educational journeys.
Panelists included Amika Chavan, a freshman at the University of Maryland; Nitish Gannu, a sophomore at Cornell University; Aryan Wadhwa, a junior at Purdue University; Brian Thomas, a junior at the NYU Stern School of Business; Jay Rathod, a senior at the University of Connecticut; Vedant Gannu, a graduate student at Columbia University and a professional at Google; Sandesh Gawande, CEO of ICEDQ.AI; and Mirat Joshi, Director and Global Strategic & Regulatory Initiatives Leader at Citibank and Secretary of GOPIO-CT.
The event opened with welcoming remarks from GOPIO-CT Vice President Sonali Gannu, who emphasized the importance of community-driven mentorship. She noted that programs like this are essential in helping young people make informed decisions during formative years. Introductory remarks followed from GOPIO Chairman and GOPIO-CT Advisor and Trustee Dr. Thomas Abraham, who highlighted GOPIO’s long-standing commitment to youth empowerment and leadership development.
Panelists shared personal insights drawn from their own experiences. Addressing the transition to college life, Cornell sophomore Nitish Gannu reflected, “College brings freedom with accountability. You’re no longer told what to do every step of the way—you have to be intentional about who you become, not just what you study.”
On the importance of mentorship, UConn senior Jay Rathod advised students to be proactive. “Show up consistently, ask thoughtful questions, and build genuine relationships long before you need a recommendation,” he said, stressing that mentorship is built over time, not at the last minute.
Discussing advanced education, Vedant Gannu offered a nuanced perspective on graduate studies. “A master’s degree is worth pursuing when it deepens expertise, opens doors, or accelerates growth beyond what industry experience alone can provide,” he explained.
Several panelists emphasized exploration and adaptability. UMD freshman Amika Chavan shared, “I thought I had it figured out early, but new experiences helped me discover what truly fits me.” Purdue junior Aryan Wadhwa echoed this sentiment, encouraging students to maintain balance. “Say yes early, try different clubs, and learn how to prioritize so academics and personal growth support each other,” he said.
NYU Stern junior Brian Thomas urged students to maximize campus resources early. He advised engaging actively with “career centers, alumni networks, internships, and professors—not just during senior year.”
From an employer’s perspective, ICEDQ.AI CEO Sandesh Gawande highlighted the skills that matter most in today’s workforce. “Curiosity, adaptability, communication, and continuous learning often matter more than technical knowledge alone,” he noted.
The event was sponsored by LCR Capital Partners and the Hampton Inn & Suites, Stamford, whose support helped make the program accessible and impactful.
By combining student voices, professional insights, and community leadership, GOPIO-CT’s Youth and Young Professionals Luncheon once again reinforced its mission to empower the next generation with clarity, confidence, and connection as they navigate college and life beyond.
