Posted on August 6, 2024 by Storm Goodman
Charu Jain
AUGUST 06, 2024 - Charu Jain arrived in America from India with great aspirations and with the ambition needed to make her visions a reality. Utilizing her brilliant mind and all the skills she had learned at UTSA, Jain founded Gasochem International LLC in 2012, and has since turned it into an INC 5000 company. Jain attributes a big part of her success to her time at the Klesse College of Engineering and Integrated Design and expresses just how influential her time there was in preparing her for the competitive chemical industry.
Read the full interview down below.
What made you decide to attend UTSA?
CJ: During my university application process from India, my sole choice was Texas due to my extended family residing in Houston. Considering the importance of being close in case of emergencies, I applied to four universities: UT Austin, UT San Antonio, Texas A&M, and Lamar University. Back in India, we lacked knowledge about university rankings, so I reached out to the Indian associations of these institutions. The UTSA Indian association stood out for its prompt responses, offering valuable insights into scholarship programs for international students and post-graduation job opportunities. After which I reached out to the various faculty professors, and they suggested some courses to take which will help in getting interviews/jobs.
What did you enjoy most about your experience at UTSA?
CJ: I enjoyed a lot of things when I was at UTSA, these include forming lasting friendships, engaging in extracurricular activities, exploring diverse academic subjects, and participating in events/student organizations. This provided me with an opportunity for personal growth, exposure to new ideas, and the sense of independence. While I won’t deny losing friends I miss due to moving into new cities for jobs, I acknowledge the valuable life lessons they imparted, lessons that continue to guide my actions today.
How did your education at UTSA prepare you for your career?
CJ: Education at UTSA served as a foundational pillar in preparing me for my career. It equipped me with essential knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities relevant to the engineering field. Through a structured curriculum, I not only gained expertise in specific subjects but also developed problem-solving capabilities and effective communication skills. Additionally, educational experiences also included practical applications, internships, or projects, offering real-world insights. This holistic preparation empowered me to navigate the complexities in the engineering world.
Did you do an internship through UTSA and if so, how was that experience for you?
CJ: Following graduation, securing a job posed challenges as an international student amid a market downturn. Fortunately, a professor connected me with an executive at KCI, leading to a valuable internship. My dedication and proficiency during the internship resulted in being recognized as the best intern among 30 students. Subsequently, KCI extended a full-time job offer, including sponsorship for my work visa.
Did you have any mentors or friendships that developed while you were a student and made a profound impact on your future?
CJ: During my time at UTSA, I cultivated significant mentorship that played a pivotal role in both my personal and academic advancement. Dr. Cheryl Schnieder served as my mentor, offering steadfast guidance, support, and fostering a sense of community throughout my academic journey. Her emphasis on networking with peers and industry experts underscored the enduring pursuit of knowledge as a lifelong learner. I formed connections with friends who offered crucial support during a period of unemployment. I am deeply grateful for their assistance and the valuable lesson they imparted about the importance of practicality in life. As someone who tended to prioritize relationships over career, their guidance helped me strike a balance between emotions and practicality. In business, networking and practicality are crucial ingredients for success, and these elements are evidently reflected in my approach and achievements.
What advice would you give current students preparing to enter the workforce?
CJ: Network actively, embrace learning opportunities, and be adaptable - your journey is just as important as the destination.
What is your life slogan?
CJ: Choose your circle wisely, for company shapes destiny.
— Storm Goodman
