Thank You For Being Such A Vital Part Of Our Team, Nirali Fumakiya. We Look Forward To Sharing More About You So Others Can Get To Know You Better!
Tell us a bit about your backstory and what led you down your current life path.
I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a minor in Sociology. After graduation, I decided to take a gap year in order to travel and figure out the next steps in my career. I decided that it was best for me to further my education and get a master’s degree in order to achieve my goals. My master’s program gives me the opportunity to enhance my skills and take classes that align with my interests and career goals. Also, I am thrilled to join the E.R.E team as an intern to put my academic work into action and contribute to a meaningful cause.
What or who inspired you to pursue your major/career?
I’ve always had a strong passion for community service and assisting others. I’ve had a desire to understand more about government and community issues. In college, I had the chance to take classes and explore the nonprofit sector. I also did internships with a couple of nonprofit organizations, which significantly increased my understanding and enthusiasm for this field. It helped me see that I could turn my passion for helping others into a career.
What is one thing you are proud of achieving in your life?
One thing I’m proud of achieving in my life is being the first in my family to graduate from college. I have always understood the importance of education in life, and it has been a goal of mine to get a Bachelor’s degree, no matter what I choose to do in life. I was able to maintain my grades and finish college even through all the challenges that came along the way. It made me realize that I can truly accomplish anything that I set my mind to.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?
The person I’m most grateful for and who has helped me tremendously in my life is my mom. Her and my dad have both worked really hard and made a lot of sacrifices to ensure that I accomplish all of my dreams. I am really thankful for their support and encouragement throughout my entire life. I can’t express how much they have helped me in completing my education and my career.
Why did you choose to be an intern for Educate. Radiate. Elevate.?
I chose to be an intern at Educate. Radiate. Elevate because I really resonated with the mission and wanted to get involved in a great cause. I have worked with children in the past, and I understand the importance of quality education. This internship allows me to contribute to the cause of serving low-income students in whatever small way I can. It also gives me the opportunity to gain more experience in grant writing and fundraising efforts. It can help me improve my writing and research skills while also making a difference.
What about the Educate. Radiate. Elevate.’s Purpose, Mission, and Core Values speaks most to you and why?
I’m really impressed by Educate. Radiate. Elevate.’s dedication to giving good education to students who might not have many opportunities. Education can really make a big difference in a student’s life and help them succeed. I really respect the organization’s hard work in making education fair for everyone and shaping students’ minds. The values of E.R.E. match what I believe in – that education can change lives. I hope to support their mission and goals through this internship.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
The thing I enjoy most about volunteering is being able to make an impact on someone’s life. There is no better feeling than knowing that you’re making the community a better place, no matter how small my role may be. It provides me with a chance to understand the challenges others are going through and identify the resources they require. Engaging in this allows me to meet new individuals and gain insights from their experiences. Additionally, it offers me the opportunity to contribute and support those in need.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to spend my free time with my family, watch shows, and take walks around my neighborhood. I’m also into art, and I enjoy drawing and painting when I have time. When I was little, I took art classes and loved learning new techniques. Whether I’m designing things online or making sketches in my drawing book, it helps me relax. Art has always been a way for me to express my creativity.
Tell about an amazing trip you took. Where did you go and what did you enjoy most?
I recently took a trip to India with my family during the Christmas break. I lived in India when I was little, but I never really had a chance to go back since we moved to the US. After nearly 13 years, I returned to visit my family for the first time. It was enjoyable to spend time together, explore local markets, try street food, and visit tourist attractions like the Taj Mahal. The trip was truly unforgettable for my entire family, and it had been a topic of discussion for many years.
Please share your favorite Life Lesson quote. How is it relevant to your life?
One of my favorite quotes in life is “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take” by Wayne Gretzky. I frequently recall this advice when facing fear or nervousness about something in life. It serves as a source of motivation, helping me overcome fear and doubt so that I don’t miss out on opportunities. This reminder prompts me to recognize that I won’t discover the outcome if I don’t take the chance. It reinforces the idea that attempting and not succeeding is better than forever wondering about what could have happened.
