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Anvita Panajkar – Student Spotlight

Anvita Panajkar

Hometown:

  •  Cary, NC

High School Graduation Year:

  •  2018

Degrees:

  • BS, Paper Science and Engineering, 2022
  • BS, Chemical Engineering, 2022

Work Experience:

  • BOKU, Vienna, AUT, Summer 2022
  • Graphic Packaging, Augusta, GA, Summer 2021
  • WestRock, Richmond, VA, Spring 2021

Why did you choose Paper Science and Engineering (PSE)?

  • I came into college as an undecided major, but quickly joined the PSE department after seeing the strong and close-knit community. The department offers so many avenues for professional development. It was easy to feel the passion and enthusiasm of both faculty and students just by talking to them. There is so much to learn about how to make paper, and the topics are unique and deeply interesting.

What is your favorite thing about Paper Science and Engineering?

  • My favorite thing about PSE is the community. You get to know all of your teachers and classmates really well because the class sizes are pretty small. Everyone is always willing to help each other out! There are also several ways to stay connected with the PSE department – through TAPPI, the spring banquet and pre-night events. Also, there is a lot of help with professional development. The program requires that you have at least one job experience before graduating and does everything to prepare you for the job market! The PSE department is like a family!

What advice would you offer to an incoming freshman?

  • It’s okay to be completely unsure of what you want to do. Don’t let the fear of the future stop you from having fun and just enjoying your freshman year. College is a time to figure out your interests, so don’t be afraid to push yourself out of your comfort zone and try new things!

What would people be surprised to know about you? 

  • I have been a figure skater for the past 17 years! I also love to craft and take pictures. I have gotten really into crocheting and knitting lately, but I love doing any type of craft I can get my hands on!

Who has been your favorite professor or staff?

  • It is so hard to pick just one professor as a favorite, because I have learned so much from all of them. All the staff members in PSE are incredibly supportive and always willing to help you grow and succeed. They all go above and beyond to make sure that we are taken care of and have all the tools we need to do well in college and beyond!