Graduate of CPS: Akrati Tripathi

Master of Science in MS Project Management, ’25

Please provide 3 words that encapsulate your Northeastern University experience: 

Resilience, Transformation, Achievement 

Where are you from or where do you consider home? 

Uttar Pradesh, India 

What has your journey at Northeastern University revealed to you about yourself? 

My journey at Northeastern has shown me how resilient and adaptable I am. Moving abroad, far from my home country, was a huge step, and I’ve learned to embrace challenges, push my limits, and grow both academically and personally. I’ve realized that I can thrive in new environments, build meaningful connections, and continuously evolve. 

What motivated you to continue through challenging times in obtaining your degree? 

The biggest motivation has been my family and the belief that I’m paving the way for something bigger—not just for myself but for those who come after me. Being the first in my family to study abroad, I knew this journey wasn’t just about earning a degree; it was about proving to myself that I could do it. The thought of making my family proud and the opportunities that lie ahead kept me going through the toughest times. 

“The biggest motivation has been my family and the belief that I’m paving the way for something bigger—not just for myself but for those who come after me.”

Experiential learning is a core component of a Northeastern education.  

One of the most rewarding parts of my experience has been the hands-on learning through co-ops and real-world projects. Working in professional environments while studying has given me a deep understanding of how concepts translate into practice. I’ve had the chance to apply project management skills, collaborate with industry experts, and develop problem-solving abilities that a classroom alone couldn’t teach. It’s been an incredible way to bridge the gap between theory and reality. NUPM refined my skills in risk assessment, scheduling, and stakeholder communication. 

Where do you imagine yourself five years from now? 

In five years, I see myself in a leadership role, managing impactful projects and driving meaningful change in my field. I want to continue learning, growing, and contributing to innovative solutions—whether in biotech, pharma, or beyond. At the same time, I hope to mentor and support others who are starting their own journeys, just as I’ve been supported along the way. 

Is there anything else you wanted to say that we didn’t cover? 

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from this journey, it’s that stepping out of your comfort zone is where the real growth happens. Moving to a new country, adapting to a different culture, and navigating the ups and downs of this experience has shaped me into a stronger, more confident version of myself. I’m incredibly grateful for everything I’ve learned at Northeastern—both inside and outside the classroom.