Botstiber Scholars On the Move
Luckshitha Liyanage, Sri Lanka, ‘09
My Lehigh University experience was a sound balance between academic achievement and extracurricular activities. In addition, to receiving an outstanding scientific education, Lehigh introduced me to new evolving research fields and provided me with many opportunities to take part in challenging research projects at cutting-edge laboratories and facilities, under the expert supervision of an internationally renowned faculty. The Dietrich W. Botstiber Scholarship further enhanced this positive experience, as it gave me more time to concentrate on my studies without having to worry about financial burdens. Thus, I participated in many activities that broadened my horizons and bolstered my confidence to become a role-model in terms of scholarship, leadership and service. In a nutshell, Lehigh University blessed me with an extraordinary education and gave me the ability to see the world in a whole new perspective.
After graduation, I will attend Stanford University to obtain an advanced degree for further specialization in nanotechnology. Since the conventional CMOS technology is heading towards a brick wall, I am particularly interested in pursuing the emerging fields of carbon nanotubes & Graphene at Stanford University. Given the location of the university in the heart of the Silicon Valley, I hope to make close connections with the industry and make a significant contribution to the advancements of the next generation of devices. Later on, I wish to return to Sri Lanka and promote higher education and scientific research for future generations. The Sri Lankan government recently decided to open its first nanotechnology institute; an advanced degree would enable me to acquire a position there and act as a liaison between the US and Sri Lanka in order to present new opportunities for talented young engineers. Utilizing my connections to US-based industries, I aspire to fund new frontiers of research and launch student exchange programs with foreign companies that would lead to further development of Sri Lankan education system for many years to come.
Rajan Khatiwada, ’07 Nepal
After graduation, I spent the summer of 2007 in Japan where my parents were living temporarily. I then moved to New York and started working as an IT advisor for KPMG. My clients since then have been big banks and other companies in the financial services industry. I have found it very interesting to work with them in the course of this recession and have learned quite a bit in the process. I was published in the Martindale publication 'Perspectives on Business and Economics' in November 2007. The ceremony was in New York. In 2008, I continued with KPMG New York, living on the upper west side and loving the city experience. But just as my US visa was soon to expire I was offered a job in the same position in KPMG London. I accepted and moved to London in August 2008.I have been living in London since then. Work is going well and I like London more and more everyday. I have been studying for the CFA (chartered financial analyst) exams and passed level 1 in Jan 2009--two more levels to go. I visited my family in Nepal recently—a trip that reaffirmed my conviction that I want to return one day and do something constructive.