Jipsa Thankachan knows how to hustle. After graduating from APJ Abdul Kalam
Technological University in India with a degree in civil engineering, she
collaborated with friends on QR Builders, a building and construction
startup. “That marked the start of my own vision,” she said. After working
on projects ranging from landscaping designs to remodeling to site
inspections, “I gained self-control, endurance, consistency, leadership, and
the bravery to take on any challenge.”
Thankachan knew she wanted to pursue further education and chose Drexel to
expand her career opportunities through a
master’s in environmental engineering
. “I knew it would help me advance in my job and go into upper-level
management, positions with more stability and, potentially, bigger
compensation.”
The
graduate co-op experience
allows students to alternate class terms with a six-month, hands-on position
in their related field. After preparing for the process and getting career
advice from the
Steinbright Career Development Center
, Thankachan found her current position as an engineer in the water and
wastewater sector at the Bowman Company through one of Drexel’s fall career
fairs.
As the majority of projects pass through Thankachans’ office, she’s focusing
on the design and engineering of water treatment plants, water lines and
more.
“I was looking for a company that would allow me to reach my full potential,
offer career advancement and training, and have a solid reputation for
industry leadership and ethical standards,” Jipsa said.
Back at Drexel, she’s gotten involved as a graduate student ambassador at
the College of Engineering. Working with Drexel Engineering’s administration
team strengthened her interpersonal communication skills and helped her meet
new people. For more information about the graduate student ambassador
program,
click here
.
Jipsa knows that ambition and drive, coupled with experience, lead to
success.
As Jipsa looks toward graduation, she’s found a lot to be thankful for. From
becoming a graduate student ambassador and getting to be a part of the
hiring process for her successor to becoming a research assistant for
Professor Patrick Gurian, Jipsa has made the most out of her educational
experience at Drexel.