Natalya Ratra

Natalya Ratra Towson University ‘23, Major: Information Technology 

As a graduating senior at Towson University, Natalya Ratra is earning her B.S. in Information Technology. She is excited to learn more about data analytics with ORIGINS this summer. Natalya’s involvement with data collection at the FHJM with the Medical Development Services and Analytics team will contribute to streamlining the Grateful Patient Fundraising process in JHAS.  

What drew you to this opportunity?  

Before being offered this opportunity, I never realized the connection between my professional interests as an IT major and the realm of Development and Alumni Relations. However, after learning about how I can contribute to improving DAR at Johns Hopkins through data analytics, it became clear that I couldn’t pass on this opportunity. Not only will I be able to contribute to Johns Hopkins, but I will also be able to grow as a professional in my desired field.   

What are you most excited about during your internship?  

There are two things I’m really excited about: meeting new people and expanding my knowledge of data analytics. I’m so excited about the various opportunities I’ll have to network with professionals from various backgrounds, while also obtaining practical experience in my preferred domain.  

What is your most memorable college experience?  

During my freshman year, I took a Composition and Research course. There were various small projects that contributed to the final project: an argumentative essay. The focal point of my essay was how the utilization of laptops in college classrooms hinders the learning process. One of the small projects required was an annotated bibliography. My annotated bibliography was published in the handbook students utilize for this course at the university. I was recognized for my ability to plan out information collection and conduct thorough research. This motivates me to pursue all academic and professional endeavors with the same level of organization.   

Where do you want to be in 10 years, and how can this internship help you get there?  

I certainly want a career in Information Technology. However, considering there are many paths relating to IT that I can pursue, it’s been difficult trying to determine my true passion within the field. With this internship, I hope to gain hands-on experience that will help me determine whether Data Analytics is the path I want to pursue. I’m already leaning towards a career in Data Analytics, but this opportunity will help to solidify my decision, while also learning about DAR, which could potentially be an area I dedicate my IT knowledge.   

What does philanthropy mean to you?  

I believe that philanthropy means contributing to the improvement of society by allocating the necessary resources to accomplish a specific goal. Through philanthropy comes the improvement of human welfare.   

What excites you most about spending your summer in Baltimore?  

Aside from meeting wonderful people through the ORIGINS program, I am looking forward to trying all the tasty restaurants at the Inner Harbor!  

What is something you are passionate about?   

I’m truly passionate about helping people. Even if it’s the simplest act, being able to put a smile on someone’s face puts an even bigger smile on my face! During my time with DAR at Johns Hopkins, while I won’t be directly helping anyone, the work I do behind the scenes will contribute to the success of the institution, and its ability to help others!  

Please share one fun fact about yourself!   

I am half Brazilian and half Indian! Nobody has ever been able to guess both of my ethnicities correctly!