Graduate Student Spotlight | Prashanthi Akuthota

"One of my colleagues recommended Hood College to me, and when I contacted the program director, I immediately liked the way they responded. The course curriculum is good, as are its diverse academic programs and supportive community."

Prashanthi Akuthota, M.S. Information Technology

Program

Information Technology (M.S.)

Department

Computer Science & Information Technology

Graduate School
Graduate Student

Academics
Math & Computer Sciences

02/12/2024

Prashanthi Akuthota is an international graduate student in Hood College’s Master of Science in Information Technology program and is expected to graduate in 2025. Akuthota also serves as the graduate administrative assistant at the Graduate School. With a bachelor’s in electronics and communication engineering from the AVN Institute of Technology in India, she brings previous experience as an automation tester at Brand Width Technologies. Prashanthi is a valued member of the Graduate School’s diverse team.

Could you briefly describe your education and career background?

I earned a bachelor’s in electronics and communication engineering (ECE) from the AVN Institute of Technology in India. I also have a background in mathematics, physics and chemistry. I have gained valuable knowledge in electronics and communication along with a strong foundation in science. I have previously worked as an automation tester at Brand Width Technologies. I will complete my master’s here at Hood in August 2025.

What was it like being an automation tester?

Being an automation tester involves designing, writing, executing and testing scripts to ensure the quality of the software. It requires a good understanding of the programming language and testing frameworks. Plus, I like testing all the programs. I also possess some experience in both manual testing and automation testing.

How did you first learn about Hood College? What led you to apply here?

One of my colleagues recommended Hood College to me, and when I contacted the program director, I immediately liked the way they responded. The course curriculum is good, as are its diverse academic programs and supportive community. The College also celebrates all kinds of cultural programs. It’s important to consider your academic and personal goals when deciding where to apply.

What was the process like for becoming an international student? Did you get any sort of assistance with it?

Becoming an international student typically involves applying for universities and obtaining a student visa, navigating cultural adjustments, getting assistance from an educational consultant, contacting university support services and using online resources about application visa requirements.

What sort of work do you hope to do with your master’s?

I want to become a software engineer. Also, my previous IT knowledge and certificate in automation testing should help with my future steps.

Would you have any sort of advice to share with other potential international students?

Certainly! When you consider studying abroad, research the culture connected with current students and be open to new experiences. Also, make sure to understand the visa requirements and stay organized with documentation.

Are there any fun facts or trivia about yourself that you would like to share?

In my free time, I like traveling a lot. It helps me stay creative and open-minded in both my personal and professional life.

Inspired by Prashanthi’s success as an international student and an IT program member? Ready to #GOFURTHER in your career? Learn more about Hood College’s graduate programs, such as information technology, by clicking here.