Contributing to Rochester’s mission through University admissions interviewing and attending alumni events

Meet Washington, D.C. Network member and Alumni Interviewer Kavya Nagumotu ’18

Share a bit about yourself! What are you up to now?

I am a trial attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Division in Washington, DC. I represent the United States in patent, trademark, and copyright matters.

What are your most cherished memories from your time at the University of Rochester?

My most cherished memories from my time at the University of Rochester are meeting some of my closest friends and discovering my passion for law. The camaraderie from my freshman year at Gilbert 1 is something my friends and I continue to reminisce about.

Even as a microbiology & immunology major, I got to explore subjects across various disciplines such as anthropology, photography, and law. Taking legal-related classes such as Urban Crime and Justice and Business Law were pivotal in steering me toward law school and pursuing a career as an attorney.

The meaningful relationships that I formed and the classes I took at Rochester not only enriched my college experience but also provided a strong support system that continues to influence my life and career today.

How did campus life and any co-curricular involvement (clubs, organizations, teams, etc.) impact your personal and professional growth?

Throughout my time at Rochester, I was involved with the Student Programing Board (now known as the Student Activities Board). One of the highlights of my time with SPB was serving as one of the lead organizers for Dandelion Day. This role was incredibly fulfilling, as I was responsible for coordinating artists such as Big Sean and Tinashe, managing logistics, and ensuring the execution of such a large and exciting event. Being a part of SPB helped me develop a range of skills that are crucial in any professional setting, and it remains one of my fondest memories from my time at Rochester.

What University resources or initiatives were most impactful to your next steps after graduating?

The various career fairs hosted at Rochester during my senior year were most influential in planning my path right after college. It was at one of the fairs that I learned about City Year, an Americorps organization dedicated to supporting public schools and promoting educational equity. After graduation, I accepted a position with City Year, where I spent the year after graduating serving at a public middle school in Washington, DC. During my year of service, I had the chance to work closely with students, support their educational development, and contribute to their overall well-being. This experience provided me with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by underserved communities and the importance of making a positive impact.

How did your experience at the University of Rochester influence your life?

Academically, Rochester’s rigorous programs challenged me to think critically and engage deeply with my coursework. Beyond academics, my involvement in extracurricular activities, particularly with the Student Programming Board, was instrumental in shaping my leadership abilities. Additionally, the close friendships I formed during my freshman year and throughout my time at Rochester have had a lasting impact on my personal life and professional outlook.

What sparked your initial interest in volunteering with the University? What role(s) have you held?

My initial interest in volunteering with the University of Rochester was sparked by a desire to give back to the community that had provided me with so many opportunities and experiences. At the beginning of this year, I began volunteering as a Student Alumni Interviewer. Having had such a transformative and rewarding time at Rochester, I wanted to contribute to the University’s admissions process by helping communicate the unique opportunities and supportive community that I had experienced.

As an alumni interviewer, I’ve had the opportunity to engage with prospective students in the Washington, DC area, answer their questions about life at Rochester, and provide insights into what makes the University special.

What advice do you have for fellow alumni and friends who may be interested in taking a more active role in our alumni and friends’ community?

My advice to fellow alumni and friends is to actively participate in alumni events hosted throughout the year. These events are fantastic opportunities to reconnect with fellow alumni, stay updated on Unews, and forge new connections. Attending these gatherings has been incredibly valuable for me personally. I’ve not only reconnected with old friends but also met new alumni who have provided valuable professional advice and insights.

What’s the most rewarding part of staying connected with your alma mater?

The most rewarding part of staying connected with my alma mater is witnessing the ongoing success and growth of the University and its community. By being an alumni interviewer, I feel a strong sense of contribution to Rochester’s mission and continued excellence. Reconnecting with fellow alumni and engaging with the University community reinforces the bonds formed during my time at school and strengthens my personal and professional network.