Hi, I’m Diya. I was born and raised in India, and I recently moved to Boulder in August 2025. I would describe myself as someone who loves exploring new things on my own first, and then encouraging my friends to experience them with me. Whenever I see something beautiful, exciting, or memorable, I immediately want to share it with the people closest to me, whether that is my friends or family. I usually tell them every little detail, sometimes so many times that they eventually remind me I have already said it a million times.

Hometown

Mumbai, India

Major(s)

Creative Technology Design

Clubs, organizations & involvement

No at CU Boulder i have not really been a part of any club as such.

Describe your college experience

On Day 1, which was the official orientation day, I barely knew anyone, including my roommates. We had a treasure hunt where we had to find different places on campus, such as the ISSS office at C4C, Norlin Library, and a few other locations. At one point, I got separated from my group and had no idea where I was. The campus felt so huge, and by the end of the day, I had blisters on my feet from walking so much. Fortunately, we were given physical maps, and that was when I realized that I actually had a pretty good sense of direction. I picked myself up, followed the map, and eventually reached the UMC safely. During my initial days, I carried that map everywhere. It felt a little embarrassing at first, but honestly, what else could I do? I did think about using maps on my phone, but the physical map was much easier for me to understand. Looking back, I still find it funny, but also very memorable. There were times when I could have reached a place in five minutes, but because I took the wrong route, it would take me around fifteen minutes instead. Apart from my campus experience, I was genuinely amazed by all the resources and activities CU offered, such as internship fairs, free bowling nights, LEGO printing workshops, yoga classes, and so much more. If I could experience it all again, I absolutely would. The professors were welcoming, my classmates and colleagues were helpful, and they always made sure I never felt like I did not belong here. Because of this experience, I have learned that I do not want to miss out on opportunities anymore.

Tip for future students

A tip I would give to future students is to not miss out on social events, bowling nights at the UMC, or classes at the Rec that genuinely interest you. Assignment deadlines can sometimes keep you up all night, but it is important to still make time to enjoy your college experience. You will not get this time back, so try to balance your responsibilities with activities you love, whether that is dancing, swimming, yoga, Pilates, rock climbing, cycling, or working out at the gym. Do whatever helps keep your mind and body happy, healthy, and active.

Favorite class

I recently attended a yoga class at C4C, and it was a small, peaceful group. I found the instructor to be really wonderful, and the atmosphere of the class was very calming. It felt like such a relaxing experience, where I could leave all my worries behind and focus on my inner self.

Career goals

After college, I hope to become a Product Designer and create meaningful, interesting things. I’ve always loved making things by hand, and I want to continue exploring that creativity through design. Alongside my career, I also want to keep pursuing my passions for dance and chunky yarn hand knitting. I recently made a blanket for myself, and I absolutely loved the process and the final result.

Ideal way to spend a free night

I enjoy staying active and doing things that help me feel creative or refreshed. I would usually spend my time going for a long walk by myself while listening to music, learning something new like a choreography, trying hand knitting, baking cookies, or working out at the gym. I don’t really enjoy sitting around doing nothing. On a rainy day, since I absolutely love the rain, I would probably go out for a jog without an umbrella or raincoat and just enjoy the weather.

High school or secondary school

I attended High school in India. I was raised in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.

Previous college

I graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in India and worked as a Graphic Designer for two years before moving to Boulder to pursue my master’s degree at CU Boulder.