Mr. Mohopatra, Program Manager at Maryland Department of Human Services
Published 23 Mar 2020
Tags: IT, finance, managementWhy did you choose to pursue this career? What made you certain this was the right path?
I choose to pursue this career because it involved improving human services delivery via an IT modernization project approved by the Governor of Maryland with the State of Maryland. Moreover, this career provided an opportunity to work for the most vulnerable citizens of Maryland.
What events, prior employment, or educational experiences led you to your current job?
As a long-time researcher in Organic Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry, I managed the budget and finance of several federally funded projects such as NIH and NSF projects.
What schooling, education, and/or certifications did you complete to prepare you for this career?
I have a Masters and PhD in Organic Chemistry and several years of related postdoctoral and industrial training and experience. My project management experience in academia and industry prepared me for this career.
How did you make the best use of your time in both your education and career?
I make the best use of my time by learning the courses taught by my teachers to the best of my ability during my education. I try to apply the learning in my education in my career. Moreover, I try to acquire the institutional knowledge as fast as possible for my career growth. I try to learn new tools and technologies every day to advance my career.
What advice would you give to a high school or college student interested in pursuing this field of work?
You have the right to learn. You have no rights to the results though. Let not the results be the motive of your learning. Do not avoid learning.
What opportunities would you suggest high school students participate in?
High school students should participate in research and internships with companies, agencies, and organizations.
What opportunities did you take as a student that helped advance your career (research, internships, etc.)
As a student, I participated in some part-time research work in a university in India.
What do you wish you had done differently with regards to your career/education?
I should have worked hard and put my best efforts in my education and career.
What does a typical day at your job look like?
A typical day at my job involves completing several tasks regarding budget, finance, and procurement. It also involves mentoring and leading co-workers to prepare them for the future. I work on an IT modernization project known as MD THINK that intends to modernize human services delivery to Marylanders.
What was a surprising aspect of your job?
Compared with my earlier career in research, this job provides more challenges to solve everyday.
What qualities are necessary to be successful in your field of work, and why?
Hard work, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills.
Do you have any additional advice?
There is no alternative to hard work. Put in your best efforts. Do not worry about the results.