Dhruvi Bhatt's Transformative Path to Senior Walk, and Beyond

As a first-generation student pursuing a master’s degree, choosing the right university was incredibly important to Dhruvi Bhatt. 

After graduating with a double degree — a Bachelor of Arts in English literature (with honors) and a Bachelor of Education (with a focus on language education) — in India, Dhruvi began exploring graduate programs across the U.S. focusing on information systems and cybersecurity, “a decision that was both exciting and daunting,” she says.  

A friend who works at the Walmart Home Office in Bentonville recommended the University of Arkansas. “Hearing about the university’s strong reputation — especially the Sam M. Walton College of Business, combined with its close ties to Fortune 500 companies like Walmart — convinced me to take a closer look,” she says.  

“When I reviewed the course curriculum, I was impressed by how practically designed and hands-on it was, clearly preparing students for real-world challenges.” 

Dhruvi says the transition from her hometown of Gaithersburg, Maryland, to a new state and city was a significant step. "The U of A is more than an institution,” she says. “It is a world of its own, a melting pot of diverse cultures and disciplines.” 

But it didn’t take long for her to feel welcomed. “The faculty in the Information Systems Department, the friendships I formed, and the countless memories made through group studies, late-night assignments, and presentations all made the journey special,” she says. 

She also says that her participation in the Hogs Abroad program in Ireland was a highlight of her time here. “Getting to experience Irish culture; visit companies like SAP, Teeling Whiskey, and EY [Ernst & Young]; and learning about global business operations was truly unforgettable,” she says. 

Dhruvi graduated in May 2024 with a master’s degree in information systems with a concentration in cybersecurity, and quickly earned a position with Kenvue, a consumer health company in New Jersey, as a data analyst.  

Dhruvi’s path is far from ending, though. She is working towards several professional goals, including transitioning into advanced data analytics – including using AI, business intelligence, and data-driven strategy and decision making. 

“Looking back, my time at the University of Arkansas was a transformative journey. It was here that I grew intellectually, personally, and socially. The challenges I faced and the experiences I gained during this journey have shaped me into the individual I am today.” 

Wherever Dhruvi’s path takes her, she says, “The University of Arkansas holds a piece of my heart! Go Hogs!” 

For more student success stories like Dhruvi's, check out some of our previous #MyPathToSeniorWalk features: Erick Soto, Kennedy Hicks, Rachell Sanchez-Smith, Gary Jackson, Ismael Salgado, Angel Williams, Michaela Parks, Mishek Musa, Kathryn Richardson, Jordan Lackey and others at our #MyPathToSeniorWalk website. If you'd like to be featured in the #MyPathToSeniorWalk series, please fill out the nomination form.