
I am Sushma Kini.
I’m driven by one question: 'Will I regret not trying?'
Embracing every opportunity, no matter how big or small
Who Am I?
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Technical Program Manager
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Artist
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Cat mom
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Taekwondo
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Runner
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Writer
Where was I?
2022 - Now
GoFundme - Senior Technical Program Manager
2022
Wolfram Research - Technical Product Strategist
2021
Married
2019 - 2021
Wolfram - Technical Project Manager, office of CEO
2016 - 2018
Wolfram - Technical Project Manager
2014 - 2016
Masters - University of Illinois, Urbana Champaign (UIUC)
- Went through an emotional shift, going from being a "kid" of the family to managing your own life in a different country. Called my Mom across time zones (2 PM CST, 1:30 AM IST) with happy tears when I went grocery shopping for the first time in US
- Pursuing my Master's in mathematics wasn't as easy as it might have initially seemed. Experienced a "frog in the well" moment where my initial confidence gave way to the realization of the vast knowledge gap and complexity of the subject.
- Despite the challenges, I wouldn't change a thing on how it all turned up, I would not have been me without the lasting friendships, late-night study sessions, lonely lunches and a dab of luck that didn't let me fail any of my classes.
2010 - 2014
Bachelors in Computer Science, NMAM Institute of Technology, India
- Reached a significant milestone in my journey toward adulthood, where I began managing my own pocket money, acquired my first phone, and went on my first independent trip with friends, gaining memorable life experiences along the way
- Despite common advice to diversify my options by applying to Computer Science Master's programs or seeking job opportunities, I made the conscious decision to fully commit to applying for Master’s programs in Mathematics at US universities, prioritizing my passion
- Got rejected by 8 out of 9 universities I applied to, the experience taught me valuable lessons in resilience, perseverance, and the importance of risk management - balancing bold decisions with thoughtful contingency planning
2008 - 2010
St. Mary's Pre-University College, India
- Computer Science classes where my favorite, where I developed my passion and skill for technology.
- I neglected learning Hindi since I didn't think it would help me get into a good university, but I was at risk of failing the exams. My mom stepped in and taught me Hindi like bedtime stories.
- Most common feedback received during parents/teachers meet is "She is a nuisance but she is smart".
2005 - 2008
Milagres High School, India
- Still not a top student, however I did fail in one exam for the first (and last) time.
- In my free time, I tackled every math problem I could find, from my grade and beyond.
- By 9th grade, I had decided I wanted to pursue a Master’s in Mathematics.
- Fractured my hand for the 4th time in my life.
- Served as "Singing Minister" of the school student body in my 10th grade. That was the last time I sang, ever!
1996 - 2005
Milagres English Medium Primary School, India
- Extremely enthusiastic about going to school everyday, so much so that I accused my parents of keeping me home during holidays.
- Never a top student, but I did score a 100 on a Science exam when I misread my schedule and had prepared for Social Science exam.
- Not a single annual day went by without me dancing, singing, or participating in a skit
1992
Birth
- Born in November 1992 at Udupi, Karnataka, India.
- Standard cry baby model.
- Countless stories about how my 1-year old brother looked after me and adored me.