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Aleysha Varghese

Aleysha Varghese

When she was a senior in high school, Aleysha Varghese contacted her nominator and asked if she could join his research lab for the summer. He said, “I had never before experienced a high school student 'cold calling' me and eloquently and articulately describing how her interests would be a great match for our on-going work. I decided to give Aleysha a chance and I never regretted it. Not only did she quickly become a valuable member of our lab, but she was also the most mature, introspective student I have met.”

Now a first-year student at Virginia Tech, Aleysha shows the same initiative by taking advantage of all the opportunities she can:

  • She works as an undergraduate researcher at the Hume Center for National Security and Technology, obtaining real-world experience in her field of Computer Engineering.
  • She is a member of the Society of Women Engineers and represented Virginia Tech in the group’s national virtual conference.
  • She is a Step-Up Leader with VT Engage, assisting with initiatives that promote social justice and sustainable innovations.
  • She is a member of the Hypatia living-learning community for female engineers.
  • She has been selected to be a Center for the Enhancement of Engineering Diversity (CEED) mentor next fall.
  • She dances with VT Dhamaal: Traditional Raas Dance team. Born in India and raised in Maryland, Aleysha said traditional dance connects her with her culture and community through a form of art.

Aleysha said, “My core values include honesty, the importance of humility, being willing to learn, being kind and finding goodness within everyone, being accountable, and being adaptable. I now focus on how to use these values to contribute back to the community and society. With these values, I am growing as a confident female with big dreams and aspirations.”

Aleysha, we are confident you will continue to seek opportunities to grow in every aspect of life. It is an honor to present the Aspire! Award for PURSUE SELF-UNDERSTANDING AND INTEGRITY to Aleysha Varghese.