Smriti Barla is a senior from Peoria, Illinois majoring in Business Analytics Information Systems and Computer Science.
What is your favorite memory from the University of Iowa?
My favorite memory from the University of Iowa was emceeing and performing at our UI SASA's event called Mock Shaadi in 2020! Every year our organization puts together a large (fake) South Asian wedding showcasing all the traditions and festivities that happen throughout South Asia. I had the opportunity to emcee the show and perform multiple dances at the event while celebrating with my entire South Asian community on campus. I am proud of my background so it also filled my heart with joy to see the number of non South Asian students that came out to support and learn more about our culture and celebrate with us! It is moments like this that have shown me how much of a family we have here as Hawkeyes!
What would like to see changed in the world during your lifetime?
In my lifetime, I would like to see a significant increase in appreciation for diversity and other cultures around the world. Being a minority in the United States really puts into perspective how much room our country has for growth, especially when it comes to accepting all kinds of people equally. I hope this only gets better generation after generation.
If you could choose one superpower, what would it be?
Teleportation.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years, I hope to have created my own startup company somewhere within the tech industry.
What is a fun fact that no one knows about you?
I worked for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) throughout my college career as a Business and Cyber Analyst!
Iowa Homecoming is a week where the community comes together to celebrate Hawkeye pride. In 2021, as the Hawkeye community grows and evolves, our traditions continue to move forward. Join us once again as Iowa City turns black and gold and comes together to unite as Hawkeyes. On Iowa; Go Hawks! For more information on homecoming, visit https://homecoming.uiowa.edu.