Tabassum Sarah

I attribute my success to the lessons I learned early in customer service, where I developed a strong foundation in empathy, communication, and efficiency. These skills paved the way for my transition into technology — first in software development, and later as a business analyst at Amazon. Each role strengthened my understanding of how data can drive decisions and transform operations. Today, at PamTen, I focus on AI-driven data analysis projects designed to streamline recruitment through automation and smarter analytics.

A highlight of my career has been contributing to the AI Staffing Hotel project, Recruit Edge, which integrates AI agents to optimize staffing processes. Using tools such as Power BI, Python, SQL, Tableau, Lucidchart, and Visio, I helped design workflows and process flows that enhanced accuracy and set new standards for efficiency in AI-assisted hiring.

My academic journey also played a critical role in shaping my professional growth. Completing my master’s degree at the University of New Haven challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, and I remain grateful to Professor Aleph Konger, whose mentorship encouraged me to embrace collaboration and leadership. I’ve also found inspiration through women’s mentorship programs and community engagement — particularly my involvement with Women in Business and the Indian Student Council. Coming from India, where professional norms for women are often more traditional, these experiences reshaped my perspective on ambition and possibility.

The best career advice I’ve ever received came from Professor Aleph Konger, who was more than a mentor — she was a catalyst for how I view myself and my potential.

During my master’s program at the University of New Haven, I was still learning to find my voice. I often hesitated to speak up in class or challenge ideas, afraid of saying the wrong thing. Professor Konger noticed this quiet hesitation and would gently ask, “Sarah, what do you think?” not as a test, but as an invitation. That simple question taught me to articulate my thoughts and own my ideas. She showed me that intelligence isn’t measured by what you know, but by your willingness to share and defend your beliefs. Under her guidance, I learned that confidence can be cultivated — it’s a skill, like any other.

Beyond academics, Professor Konger helped me navigate cultural adjustments, understanding the balance I was trying to strike between my Indian upbringing and the independent professional culture in the U.S. Her advice was simple but profound: “Don’t lose your roots trying to fit in. Let them anchor you while you grow.” That guidance has stayed with me through every phase of my career, shaping how I lead, mentor, and encourage others to speak up, question, and recognize the value of their perspective.

If I could offer advice to young women entering my industry, it would be this: growth doesn’t come from having all the answers — it comes from asking better questions.

Stay curious. Technology and data evolve faster than any of us can keep up with, so don’t just learn tools — learn how to think with them. Seek mentors and be one. Mentorship transformed my career; find people who challenge you, and when you’ve gained experience, pay it forward. That’s how women build legacies, not just résumés.

Let confidence follow competence. Early in my career, self-doubt often held me back, especially in rooms where I was the only woman or the youngest voice. I’ve learned that true confidence grows from preparation, not perfection. And finally, embrace change as a signal, not a setback. Every pivot — from customer service to software development to AI analytics — taught me resilience and reinforced that discomfort often signals growth.

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced — and one that continues to shape my perspective — is transitioning from India to the United States. It wasn’t just about adapting to a new country; it was about learning how to belong while staying true to who I am.

In India, career paths often follow traditional expectations, and professional confidence is closely tied to hierarchy. Pursuing my master’s degree at the University of New Haven taught me that success in the U.S. requires a different kind of voice — one rooted in self-advocacy and open dialogue. Speaking up in classrooms and meetings didn’t come naturally at first. I had to unlearn the idea that quietness equaled respect and start viewing participation as leadership.

Navigating visa processes, workplace communication norms, and the value of networking were all challenges that became opportunities for growth. Communities like Women in Business and the Indian Student Council were invaluable in bridging cultural gaps. Professionally, adapting to the fast pace of American corporate life taught me that initiative is as important as expertise, and that sharing achievements is not arrogance, but advocacy.

The values that guide me in both work and life are creativity, curiosity, and balance. My passion for innovation began early — in 2016–2017, I won an AI startup competition for developing an AI-powered photo filter app inspired by emerging Asian tech trends. Beyond my professional pursuits, I stay grounded through trekking, cycling, and writing poetry, which remind me that creativity and balance fuel analytical thinking and problem-solving.