On Wednesday, I received the ‘2023 Learning and Teaching Citation’ from the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) for nurturing well-rounded data science professionals. UTS citations and awards recognise significant and sustained contributions to student learning, student engagement, and the student experience by individuals or teams.
Earlier this week, I also received the ‘Impactful Educator Award‘ in the Partnerships Builder category that recognises educators who build collaboration with external stakeholders into their learning programmes and use elements of innovation to create a demonstrable impact on their students.
I feel deeply honoured and humbled to be recognised for my teaching initiatives and to share the stage with many esteemed educators who are making a positive impact on students. It holds a special place in my heart as a nod to a legacy that I once thought I would not follow. Growing up in a family of educators in India – including both my grandmothers, my mum, and several other relatives – I was taught from a young age how education can uplift individuals and societies. These values were deeply instilled in me, shaping my understanding and appreciation of education, which influenced my research direction. However, interestingly, teaching was never on the cards for me as I trained to be a computer engineer.
The journey from a computer engineer to an educator has been unexpected yet profoundly rewarding for me and comes as a testament to the unpredictable paths our passions can take us. My sincere thanks to colleagues at UTS TD School, mentors, family, and, most importantly, my students, whose enthusiasm and eagerness to learn inspire me. I value every little interaction I’ve had with my students over the last few years, and I hope to have touched some of their lives in a way. I learn from them as much as they learn from me!
The recognition motivates me to continue striving for excellence, innovation, and educational impact. Let’s keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible in education, for the betterment of our students and the future they will create. Thank you once again for this incredible honor. It is a milestone I will cherish deeply, reminding me of the journey so far and the exciting road ahead!
P.S: It was also a lovely memory to share with my family who joined me in the celebration at UTS, and an appreciation for my culture through my attire (a saree, traditionally worn by women in India) 🙂