Her Story
About Ashna
Ashna Desai is a computer science major completing her bachelor's degree at NJIT. She is in her final year and has completed a data engineering internship at a publishing company, an application development internship at ADP innovation labs, as well as a research opportunity. Her most recent internship was at ADP, where she created a project presented to higher-ups in the company. Ashna has worked as a lead developer in a virtual reality lab for over a year and is now exploring cybersecurity. She is also a former treasurer of RHA hall council at NJIT, current treasurer of the Genetically Engineered Machines club and in high school she was active in the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society, volunteering at the local library to organize events for children and participating in clothing drives. She attributes her success to resilience developed through major life transitions, with strong support from her family.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Ashna
01What do you attribute your success to?
I think it's a lot of resilience, more than anything. My first year of college probably wasn't the best. I wasn't used to living alone, so when I started dorming, adjusting to living independently was a big change. I've been moving a lot at crucial times, like moving from India to US as a teenager, and switching high schools mid-senior year. My parents and family have been a huge help, especially my family paying for college and my mom always inspiring me and supporting me to finish what I started, along with my dad pushing me to be the best version of myself.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever gotten came from my mentor, Oleg Dulin, back when I was at ADP. He taught me to think beyond just writing code, to think like an innovator and design like an architect who isn't afraid to experiment. That shifted everything for me. It made me realize tech isn't only about building solutions, it's about building better ways to think.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't wait for permission, just start. You grow by doing, not by doubting yourself. Tech can feel overwhelming, but your curiosity, your voice, and your perspective are your biggest strengths. Ask questions, take up space, and don't shrink your ideas to make others comfortable. You belong here, even on the days you're still figuring it out, and your journey is powerful because it's yours.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in tech right now is using Al the right way. Everyone's chasing automation, but Al isn't valuable if it replaces human judgment , it's valuable when it helps us think smarter and work faster. The opportunity lies in building Al that boosts productivity and creativity, not one that makes decisions for us. Tech should empower people, not replace them.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Hard work, integrity, and growth. I wouldn't be anywhere without putting in the effort. It’s what built every opportunity I've had. I believe in showing up fully, doing things the right way even when it's tough, and constantly learning. For me, success isn't about shortcuts; it's about persistence, purpose, and staying true to what you stand for.
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