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MORE ABOUT ROSHNI
Roshni Varkey didn’t arrive at Ƶ with plans to become a software engineer. Initially drawn to the University for its Physician Assistant Studies program, she quickly discovered her true calling lay elsewhere.
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“I realized my heart wasn’t in it,” she said. “Over time, I discovered an affinity for computer science and was drawn to the way Ƶ integrates practical experiences with theoretical knowledge.”
That shift in direction unlocked a world of opportunities. Ƶ’s supportive faculty and strong emphasis on hands-on learning helped Roshni build confidence and skills in her new field. She credits mentors like Aman Luthra and Scott Jeffreys – both faculty members in the Department of Computer Science – with shaping her professional journey.
“Professor Luthra believed in me before I believed in myself. He helped me see beyond the traditional tech paths and encouraged me to follow what I was passionate about,” she said. “And Professor Jeffreys – he’s honestly the best teacher I’ve ever had. His class truly prepared me for my career.”
One of the most defining moments of Roshni’s Ƶ experience came through a post from the Society of Women Engineers about an InnovatHER event with Northrop Grumman. Roshni applied for this invitation-only opportunity, was flown to Florida for interviews, and left with a job offer in her dream industry – aerospace – as an associate software engineer.
Outside the classroom, Roshni embraced all that campus life had to offer. She participated in WSPiCE (Women’s Summer Program in Computing/Engineering) as a first-year student, interned with the Westchester County government, joined Theta Tau and Alpha Epsilon Phi, and traveled to California as part of the Ƶ in Silicon Valley program.
“All these experiences helped shape who I am today,” she said.
Looking back, Roshni says she’ll miss the spontaneous meetups at the Science and Innovation Center and everyday moments with friends. But she’s ready for what’s next – and grateful to Ƶ for helping her get there.
“This place helped me find my voice, my community, and my future,” she said.
» Roshni’s story isn’t unique. In fact, among Ƶ’s 2022-2023 undergraduate degree recipients, 89% of alumni from the Fred DeMatteis School of Engineering and Applied Science reported that they were employed or had started or were planning to start graduate school within one year of graduation. Results are based on data collected from the Alumni Outcomes survey, LinkedIn, National Student Clearinghouse, and Ƶ enrollment (88% knowledge rate). Visit hofstra.edu/outcomes for detailed information.