Vishnuvardhan Reddy Yettapu

Vishnuvardhan Reddy Yettapu is a management information systems graduate student from Jammalamadugu, Andhrapradesh, India

Hometown: Jammalamadugu, Andhrapradesh, India

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
As a kid, I dreamed of becoming a cricketer. I spent hours imagining myself on the pitch, representing my country and living the life of a professional athlete. But as I grew older, my perspective began to shift. I started to see how technology was shaping the world and realized I wanted to be part of that transformation. Today, I’m pursuing a master’s in management information systems at NIU. While the dream of cricket lit the fire in me, it was the evolving world of data, systems and innovation that gave me a new direction. I still carry the discipline, teamwork and strategic thinking I learned from cricket, applying them in classrooms, coding labs and collaborative projects. We all start somewhere — sometimes with a bat and ball, sometimes with a big dream — but our paths often lead us somewhere unexpected, yet just as meaningful.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
As a child, my dream was to become a cricketer. The game taught me so many valuable life lessons: discipline, teamwork and the importance of strategy. While I didn’t pursue a career in sports, these values stuck with me. Over time, I developed a deep interest in technology and how systems can be designed to improve businesses, drive innovations and solve complex problems. My passion for problem-solving, combined with my background in teamwork, led me to pursue a master’s in information systems. This course of study gives me the opportunity to blend my love for strategic thinking and data-driven decisions with my desire to make a real-world impact. I realized that while cricket gave me the foundation of teamwork, technology is where I can create the future.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
When I first arrived at NIU, I had expectations about what graduate school would be like, but I was pleasantly surprised by the vibrant, collaborative community here. As an international student, I initially thought that making connections would be difficult, but the support I’ve received from both faculty and peers has been incredible. The professors are approachable and genuinely care about our success, which has made a huge difference in my academic journey. Another surprising aspect has been the amount of practical, hands-on learning incorporated into the program. The courses are not just theoretical but also include real-world case studies and projects. For instance, working on a group project where we had to develop a system to address a business need helped me see how my studies apply directly to solving problems. I never anticipated this level of interaction between classroom learning and real-world application, which has made my experience here much more enriching. Beyond academics, the diversity and inclusivity at NIU have been a pleasant surprise. Interacting with people from various backgrounds has broadened my worldview and provided new perspectives on problem-solving. Whether it’s in a classroom, group project or casual setting, the diversity here has positively impacted both my personal and academic growth.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Building connections at NIU has been an enriching part of my experience. Initially, I was nervous about forming friendships as a graduate student, especially as an international student, but I quickly found that there are many opportunities to connect both academically and socially. For academics, I’ve been actively participating in study groups. In particular, I joined a few graduate-level study sessions that helped me understand challenging topics while also getting to know my peers better. These sessions have been invaluable not just for reviewing content, but also for building a support network. Working together on assignments, brainstorming ideas and sharing resources has allowed me to forge stronger relationships with fellow students. Outside of academics, I made connections through campus clubs and events. Additionally, attending social events hosted by NIU, like cultural nights or networking mixers, has expanded my circle beyond my immediate classmates, helping me meet a variety of students from different backgrounds.

Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie?
I’ve attended cultural events organized by ISA. These events not only helped me meet people from different backgrounds but also gave me a chance to share my own culture. I felt more connected to campus life, and it made NIU feel more like home.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The College of Business has been a cornerstone of support throughout my time at NIU. From the beginning, I felt welcomed by the faculty and staff, who are always available to provide guidance and support. The professors genuinely care about student success, often offering office hours and additional resources to help us excel in our courses. The academic advising services have been especially helpful in planning my course load and navigating my academic journey. In addition to the professors, the College of Business offers resources that have been key to my success, such as career services and professional development opportunities. The career fairs, workshops and networking events have helped me build connections that will be invaluable for my future. These resources have given me the tools and confidence to pursue internships and job opportunities. The environment within the College of Business also fosters a strong sense of community, where students support one another. The relationships I’ve built with my peers have made my time at NIU even more rewarding. Knowing that I have the support of both faculty and fellow students has made a huge difference in my academic and personal growth.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite professors at NIU is Professor Aida Sanatizadeh. I’ve taken two of her courses (OMIS 630: Python Programming for Business Analytics and OMIS 694: Advanced Topics in Information Systems), and both were truly memorable parts of my academic journey. What I appreciate most about her is how she creates a supportive and motivating learning environment. She has a gift for explaining technical concepts clearly, especially in Python programming, which can feel intimidating at first. She always made sure no one was left behind, offering help during office hours, answering questions with patience and encouraging us to push ourselves. In OMIS 694, she challenged us to think critically about how advanced information systems apply to real-world business problems, which made the class both engaging and practical. More than that, she genuinely cares. As an international student, there were times I felt a little overwhelmed, but Professor Sanatizadeh always created a welcoming, supportive environment. She’s approachable, kind and always willing to help, whether it's academic questions or career advice. I'm really grateful to have had her as a professor, as she has played a big part in shaping my positive experience at NIU.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class regularly has made a huge difference in my academic success at NIU. By being present for each session, I’ve been able to stay on top of the material and absorb important details that might be missed if I were to skip class. In my program, concepts often build on each other, so missing even one lecture could leave me struggling to catch up. In addition to staying up to date with the coursework, attending class consistently has given me the opportunity to engage in discussions, ask questions and interact with both my professors and classmates. These interactions help clarify doubts, offer different perspectives and enrich my understanding of the subject matter. Moreover, being present in class has helped me build a sense of routine and discipline, which is especially important for managing the workload of graduate-level courses. It’s also made me feel more connected to the NIU community, as I’ve been able to form stronger relationships with peers and professors.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
One of my favorite spots on campus is definitely the NIU Rec Center. It’s not just a gym to me, it’s where I go to find motivation. After a long day of studying or working on assignments, the Rec Center helps me reset and get back on track. There’s something about the energy there that’s just contagious. Being around so many people who are focused on their fitness goals really inspires me to push myself, too. Whether I’m getting in a good workout or taking a group class, it always gives me that extra boost to keep going. It’s become a place where I can clear my head, get recharged and come back to my studies feeling refreshed. It’s definitely where I get a lot of my motivation, not just physically but mentally, too. The Rec Center has been key to helping me maintain a balance between staying focused on school and taking care of my well-being. It’s a place where I feel reenergized and ready to tackle whatever comes next

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Choosing the right college is a huge decision. It’s more than just picking a place to study; it’s about setting the stage for your future. From my own experience, I’ve realized that this choice shapes not only your education, but also the direction your career and personal life might take. One of the best things I did was reach out to current students. If you can, grab a coffee with them and get their honest take on the school. They’ll give you insights that brochures and websites can’t; things like campus culture, how professors interact with students and what support systems are in place. Financials are also key. Look at scholarship opportunities, assistantships and the cost of living in the area. A highly ranked program might sound impressive, but if it leaves you buried in debt, it could limit your options down the road. Sometimes, a lesser-known school with good funding can offer a more well-rounded experience. At the end of the day, remember that college is more than just earning a degree. It’s about the people you meet, the mentors who’ll guide you and the friends who will push you to be better. Those are the real rewards you’ll carry with you long after you graduate.

Why is a college education important to you?
For me, a college education is important because it’s not just about getting a degree, it’s about setting the foundation for my future and equipping myself with the skills, knowledge and experiences that will shape my career and personal growth. As an international student, being here at NIU is an opportunity to expand my horizons, both academically and culturally. College is where I’m able to dive deep into my field, learn from experienced professors and challenge myself in ways that wouldn't have been possible without this environment. Beyond just the classroom, it’s also about the people I meet: the friends, mentors and peers who push me to think differently and support me along the way. For me, education is about more than just the textbooks and lectures; it’s about learning how to think critically, collaborate with others and adapt in a constantly changing world. Ultimately, a college education is an investment in my future — not just a degree, but the experiences and connections that will guide me through my career and beyond.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
Being an international student, balancing school, work and staying connected with family isn’t always easy. I keep things organized with a planner to manage my assignments and work hours, so I stay on top of everything. Setting boundaries for study time helps me focus and not get distracted. I also make sure to check in with my family, even if it’s just a quick call. I’ve learned it’s okay to say no to social plans when I’m busy, but I always make time for friends when I can. It’s all about finding a balance that works.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I stay informed about events and services on campus by regularly checking the NIU events calendar. It’s a great resource for keeping track of everything happening, from academic deadlines to student activities. I also use Huskie Hub, which highlights student events and club meetings. On top of that, I follow NIU’s social media accounts and look out for flyers around campus to make sure I don't miss anything.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax and recharge, I enjoy playing badminton and cricket. Both sports are a great way for me to clear my head and get some exercise. It’s a fun way to break from the routine and stay active while having a good time with friends. The physical activity also helps me feel reenergized, especially when things get busy. On days when I need a quieter break, I like to listen to music or spend time chatting with friends. Connecting with family, even just through a quick call, also helps me feel more grounded. These activities give me the balance I need to stay focused and energized for my studies and responsibilities.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I started working as a student worker at Patterson Dining and eventually became a student manager. It’s been a great experience, as it’s allowed me to develop leadership skills and manage responsibilities while balancing my studies. The role has also taught me time management and teamwork, which are important both in the workplace and in academic life. Outside of work, I enjoy playing badminton and cricket. These hobbies are perfect for helping me unwind and recharge. I also love listening to music and spending time with friends and family, as it gives me a break from the hustle of school and work.