Editor’s Note — This Q&A is part of a weekly conversation series that is celebrating Asian and Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Medium page. The series will feature Huskers who are making impacts on campus and look to maintain that momentum in future careers. Learn more about APIDA Heritage Month coverage in Nebraska Today.
This week, we’re talking with Isha Kishore, a finance and Clifton Builders management major from Omaha, Nebraska. Throughout her undergrad career, she’s been intentional about getting involved and positively impacting the groups and communities she’s a part of.
You’ve been really involved on campus, from Chi Omega’s DEI assistant to volunteering at the Women’s Center. Why was getting involved so important for your college experience?
As a freshman, I knew that integrating myself into the UNL community was important for me to have an impactful experience. Every activity I am involved in has given me the opportunity to make a substantial contribution to UNL, and in the process, I have made connections that have truly enhanced my time in college.
You’re part of the Clifton Builders Program. How has that helped shape your time at Nebraska?
The Clifton Builders Program has given me a wonderful support system here on campus. Being surrounded with talented individuals has pushed me to think outside the box. Through the program, I have covered content that will be beneficial to me in my future career and participated in experiences to apply these concepts outside of a classroom setting. Furthermore, amazing faculty in the Clifton Strengths Institute have presented me with a plethora of opportunities.
You’re also paying it forward as a student strengths coach, leadership mentor with the Nebraska Human Resources Institute and volunteer in the Women’s Center. What made you want to get involved in these mentorship/volunteer positions and what has been your favorite part?
I am the person I am today due to the mentors I have had. I assume these roles because I know that having a mentor is vital for healthy development. I see my volunteer and mentorship positions as an investment towards a community that has invested in me. My favorite part is all the wonderful relationships I build through these positions.
Why did you want to be a New Student Enrollment leader? Is there anything, in particular, you’re looking forward to about the experience?
My younger sister is going to be a freshman in college this year, and I want to make sure that new students like my sister can transition smoothly from high school to life on campus. Your first semester at college can be difficult to navigate, and I want to be a resource for students. I am particularly excited to rock some khakis this summer.
What do you hope to accomplish in your lifetime?
I happen to be a big planner. After I graduate from Nebraska, I hope to go to law school and become an intellectual property attorney. After 10 years in the legal field, I want to pivot and be a board member of a nonprofit organization for a cause that I feel passionate towards. I want to leave a legacy in every community I am a member of and be remembered for my willingness to develop the people around me.
What or who inspires you?
Christine Trinh, the Internal Vice President of ASUN, is someone that I truly look up to. She speaks out for what she believes in, puts up a tough fight for the things she cares about, and treats others with kindness and grace. I aspire to be a person like her.
What is your advice to other students looking to make an impact?
Get involved. There are many RSOs and organizations in the community that will help you maximize your impact. This gives you the opportunity to build a strong social network and make a big school feel a lot like home.
