Changing Environments

^{Pictured: Computer science student Keerthi Kapavarapu presented at the American Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage Forum in November.}

“I was representing every student who dares to dream big, work hard, and believe that they, too, can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with industry leaders,” says Keerthi Kapavarapu. “Standing on that stage wasn’t just Keerthi speaking; it was the Student Government Association’s (SGA) vice president stepping forward to let industry leaders know that New York Tech is producing students who are ready to contribute, collaborate, and lead in spaces where real change happens.”

The unforgettable moment the proud College of Engineering and Computing Sciences student speaks of relates to her November travel to Houston to attend the American Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage Forum. During the two-day conference, Kapavarapu presented her topic, “The Dual Approach: Electrification and Carbon Capture for CO2 Emissions Reduction.”

In pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science and a minor in technology entrepreneurship, Kapavarapu sought to convey through her speech topic the importance of combining innovative technologies, like electrification and carbon capture, to address CO2 emissions, as well as how young professionals are bringing fresh perspectives and bold ideas to create sustainable solutions.

Sustainability and renewable energy are topics close to Kapavarapu’s heart. She grew up in Kuwait, a country deeply connected to the petroleum industry. Her father, a chemical engineer, and her mother, who earned a master’s degree in computer science, exposed her to the intricacies of the energy sector and how technology can be used to solve complex problems. Seeing the two distinct but interconnected fields up close drove Kapavarapu to explore computer science, where she could “work at the intersection of technology, sustainability, and innovation.”

“Goals like affordable and clean energy, climate action, and sustainable cities, which are part of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, resonate with me,” she says. With those goals always top of mind, Kapavarapu has been involved in several sustainability projects as part of her studies, including her current efforts using machine learning to create a system that can analyze and transform how cities manage energy consumption. Looking at building types, weather patterns, and energy usage trends, the predictive model seeks to identify potential inefficiencies and optimize energy use in real time. On a broader scale, this project could integrate with renewable energy sources like wind and solar, ensuring that every kilowatt of clean energy is maximized.

In the meantime, Kapavarapu is warming up on the New York City campus by creating change closer to home. In 2022, during her first year as a student, she leveraged her passion for global issues and diplomacy to establish the Model United Nations (UN) Club. This group allows students to engage in discussions about international relations. It also created a space for them to improve their public speaking skills and develop a deeper understanding of global challenges.

Establishing the Model UN Club created a domino effect for Kapavarapu. After referring to the SGA for guidance in drafting her club proposal and understanding the logistics of running a student organization, she became inspired to dive deeper to pay it forward and help other young leaders turn their ideas into reality. By fall 2024, she was elected as the New York City campus’ SGA vice president, where she leads senate meetings, supports student organizations, and works on initiatives to improve the student experience. Come spring 2025, she will assume the role of SGA president.

Kapavarapu has strong ambitions to make a positive impact on any community she is a part of. She became a peer success guide (PSG) and a student ambassador during that same fall semester. As a PSG she mentors first-year students, and as a student ambassador, she shares a firsthand account of New York Tech life to prospective students. Since fall 2023, Kapavarapu has also been involved as a resident hall assistant, where she is a resource for students living on campus, and a peer tutor, where she holds one-on-one and group tutoring sessions.

“At the core of everything I do is the desire to give back,” she says. “My various roles are all connected by the same purpose—helping others and building a stronger, more inclusive campus community.”

Looking ahead to her anticipated graduation in May 2026, Kapavarapu hopes to secure a position in the tech industry, particularly in a role in which she can work on innovative and impactful projects in areas like sustainability, energy optimization, and urban technology.

“I desire to leave the world a little better than I found it. I want my career to reflect my commitment to both progress and purpose.”