Member Profile

IUAA Member Spotlight Gaurav Parikh

Gaurav Parikh
BS'02
Kelley School of Business

Manager
Steamflow Trading Corp.
Mumbai, India

Founder and president, India Chapter of the IUAA; member, IU Foundation international committee; IU Alumni Association life member

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Why I chose IU
I chose Indiana University because of its highly ranked business school and finance program. During my time at IU, I discovered special academic programs, extracurricular activities, and other resources to enrich my academic experience. The opportunities available on campus are tremendous, and the infrastructures are world-class. Facilities such as swimming pools, racquetball courts, wireless computing labs, clubs and organizations, great neighborhood restaurants and nightclubs, and citizens from all over the world make for an extraordinary combination of student life. IU has so much to offer, and there’s really nothing lacking in Bloomington. Attending IU was one of the best experiences of my life.

Favorite memories of IU
When I first arrived on campus, it was difficult finding my way around a new town, setting up my dorm room, buying textbooks, opening a bank account, and registering for classes. But I quickly realized what a great learning experience it was. Staying at Foster Shea dormitory during my freshman year was a thrilling experience. The Indian Students Association organized events that helped me feel like I was not so far away from India.

Advice to undergraduates
My advice to international students is to interact with the diverse campus population in order to get a complete American college experience. Part of the beauty of IU is that people come from everywhere. I never thought I would meet and become friends with people from Korea, Cyprus, and Japan, but I did. When you are far away from your family, the responsibility is yours. IU teaches you to become independent.

Why the IU Alumni Association is important to me
I founded the India Chapter of the IUAA as a way to give back to the university that was so good to me. The chapter extends the reach of the university through the volunteer recruitment efforts of IU alumni throughout India. Serving as president of the India chapter has been a wonderful and rewarding experience. I enjoy networking with alumni and bridging the gap between IU and India. IU and the IUAA have changed my life and both will forever be a part of me.