Daljit Chhina

Why FSU?

Florida is my state and FSU is in the top 20 among national public universities. The School of Information allowed me to start the Master of Science in Information Technology remotely and take core Information Technology courses to build a good foundation. I am also glad to be a STEM Graduate Research Assistant in the Dirac Science Library to get exposure to the real world and generate income and compensation for my fees.

Motivation to pursue a graduate degree

The pandemic motivated me! I had to take a year off as the public school system was unprepared to accommodate the virtual visual art teaching, and I started working from home, transitioning into IT as well. My husband is an IT professional. Besides having a PhD in analytical visual art studies, I decided to proceed with MSIT for better stability, options to work remotely, and better financials.

Importance and/or impact of research and work

For me, life is learning, and learning does not come without research or analysis of a situation or incidents to bring or accept change. Similarly, when it comes to profession, researchers or professionals always do better in life for personal and financial growth.

Career aspirations

I would like to be in a successful leadership role in higher education where I can impact future diverse background scholars using not only my blended Information Technology education but also my visual art creativity and experience.

Advice for anyone considering graduate school

Come to the institute to achieve and have faith like a mustard seed--the sky is the limit. I came as an immigrant to Canada with 20 dollars in my pocket. I am now achieving my dream by continuously learning and growing as a proud citizen of the USA, a land of opportunities. If I can, you can do it, too!

Accomplishments during graduate career

The accomplishments I am most proud of are: my participation as a panelist in the 2023 FSU Fellows Forum, the FSU Honorable Mention for the 2023 Graduate Student Excellence in the Visual Arts Award for my piece “My Tantra,” and the FSU Recognize and Achieve cash award.