Harita Agarwal. CodeRVA Regional High School, Class of 2022. Associate’s degree through Reynolds Community College, 2022. Virginia Commonwealth University, Class of 2024, BS in Computer Science with a Cybersecurity specialization.
How did GRASP and its advisors help you in high school/college?
In a unique program, CodeRVA Regional High School incorporates real-world work experience into a school setting. Students have their own designated desks, complete most of their assignments independently, and attend classes by following Google Calendar events. Additionally, blended learning allows students to learn autonomously while still receiving assistance from teachers when needed. GRASP had a significant impact on my college career during my senior year of high school. My participation in the GRASP College Success Program helped me with the college process by sending me emails with tips and reminders. Their monthly newsletters were incredibly beneficial, and they help you with the college process. More significantly, I was grateful to be awarded the GRASP Last Dollar Scholarship, which is given to at least one senior in each high school.
What are you doing now?
After graduation, I learned new skills in SAP Extended Warehouse Management. I took and passed the SAP S/4HANA Cloud Private Edition, Extended Warehouse Management SAP Certified Associate exam, earning my SAP EWM certification as a consultant.
I am currently working at Albany International Corp as Jr. SAP FICO Analyst in New Hampshire.
What advice would you give to high school students?
Your worth is measured in how you show up for yourself and keep going; it's not measured by grades or achievements. Not taking the difficult days personally is crucial. Mistakes are normal, but what matters most is that you learn from them while also putting your health first, and recognizing and appreciating your little wins.
What is the biggest life challenge you faced relative to your educational path?
One of the biggest challenges I encountered as a freshman in college was taking junior-level classes with juniors. I felt this was a setback because some of the complex concepts were so overwhelming that I didn't even know the basics. In addition, I felt very anxious and displaced when I saw juniors answering questions in class and interacting with their friend groups. However, I decided to change that by enrolling in several online courses, studying on my own, and gradually grasping the concepts while finishing assignments, being approachable, and asking for assistance. Along the way, I have made a lot of amazing friendships over the past year and a half, which I intend to continue throughout my career. I also hope to utilize the skills I have learned throughout my school years in my future career. I am extremely proud of my achievements in earning my high school diploma and Associate's degree at the age of 18 and graduating with a Bachelor's degree in computer science with a cybersecurity concentration at the age of 20. I would not have been able to fulfill these dreams if it had not been for GRASP!
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If you are a former GRASP student and would like to share your story, email Paula Buckley, pbuckley@grasp4va.org.
