September 25, 2023

We are excited to welcome the Graduate Student Association (GSA)'s new president for the 2023-2024 academic year, Cimi Patani, and celebrate the achievements of Jada Jackman who served as GSA’s President before her graduation in the summer term.

Cimi is a master’s student in electrical engineering at Drexel’s College of Engineering. She is from India and received her bachelor’s degree from APJ Abdul Kallam Technological University. While at APJ Abdul Kallam, Cimi received multiple awards. She received runner-up for a National Level Design Project competition and multiple awards for her team’s project showcasing a Biomimicry model air purifier prototype for public places. She also was the recipient of the Meritorious Student Award in 2020. Coming from India, Cimi chose Drexel because of its "exceptional academic reputation" which would allow her to pursue and achieve her career aspirations.

When looking for graduate student organizations to join at Drexel, Cimi was drawn to the Graduate Student Association because of the popularity of GSA’s events among graduate students and the "remarkable teamwork of the members to make these events fun and successful." She explained that by graduate students attending GSA’s events, students can "not only enrich their college experience but also contribute to the vibrant and inclusive culture of Drexel University. By participating in GSA’s events, students can add valuable social and recreational dimensions to their time at Drexel, making their college years more memorable." Past GSA President, Jada Jackman also emphasized that "graduate students often find themselves in a little bubble in which they don't get to meet many new people. However, GSA’s events are a space to bring together all different types of programs and to have fun!" Besides planning events, Jada noted that GSA also informs and advocates for graduate student needs by serving as a liaison between the graduate student community, student life, the Graduate College, and the university community. The GSA will ensure that the policies being put in place by the university "reflect the wants and needs of all graduate students, to the best of its ability." Learn more about GSA's goals and initiatives for this upcoming academic year.

As the new GSA president, Cimi offered some words of advice for incoming graduate students. She emphasized that students are never alone in the graduate school journey and make sure to "reach out, seek help, and lean on the incredible support system at Drexel willing to guide you through the challenges and triumphs of graduate life!" She also noted the importance of attending office hours, participating in lectures, and never hesitating to ask questions. Most importantly, students can make long-lasting friendships, either by either joining graduate student organizations like the GSA or by simply just coming to an event run by a Drexel organization!

This year, Cimi is excited to lead GSA in events such as the 2023 Boat Party, networking and game nights, and future events such as the Halloween Party, Thanksgiving Dinner, and the Ski Trip. We also thank Jada for her support in planning these events.

Thank you, Cimi, for taking the time to interview with us and for sharing your goals for GSA, as well as your advice to graduate students. We are excited to work with you and to see what GSA has in store!

We also want to congratulate Jada for completing her master’s degree in chemical engineering and wish her the best of luck! We thank you for your time, commitment, and leadership during the Spring and Summer term.

Be sure to follow the GSA on Instagram and Dragonlink to stay up to date on upcoming events such as the Welcome Back Boat Party and more!

Article by Rachel Mroz