Community College Month Q & A: Sanjana Butala ‘21

Sanjana Butala ‘21 transferred to Rider University and achieved a bachelor’s in biology. She is now studying to become an M.D. at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. She is looking to specialize in plastic and reconstructive surgery and help those who have suffered injuries from domestic abuse.

Q: How did you end up at Middlesex College?

A: My journey to Middlesex College is a testament to resilience. Born in New Jersey, my family faced upheaval after my parents’ divorce, leaving us stranded in India. With little financial support, returning to the U.S. seemed like a distant dream. Determined to reclaim home and pursue my passion for medicine, I sought education as my lifeline. Despite setbacks, a friend’s suggestion led me to Middlesex. With limited resources and no financial backing, I took a leap of faith, arriving in 2019 with empty pockets but big dreams and ambitions. Overcoming numerous hurdles, I secured admission and embarked on my academic journey. Middlesex wasn’t just a destination, it was a transformative moment that shaped my future. I found Middlesex under strange circumstances, but it set me up for life.

Q: How do you believe your experience as a student at Middlesex College prepared you for success in medical school?

A: Middlesex College cultivated my path to medical school. Immersed in a supportive community, I discovered my purpose beyond academics. Engaging in diverse experiences, from volunteering to leadership roles, ignited my passion for service. Mentored by professors who saw my potential, I delved into research and honed leadership skills. Middlesex taught me that success transcends grades; it’s about compassion and impact. Equipped with invaluable lessons, I carry Middlesex’s ethos to medical school: service, leadership, and self-discovery. My time at Middlesex wasn’t just about earning degrees; it was about embracing wisdom, compassion, and the journey towards making a difference.

Q: What does community college mean to you?

A: When I think of community college, I think of the countless individuals like myself who found themselves at a crossroads in life, unsure of where to turn or how to pursue their dreams. For me, community college represents resilience in the face of adversity, the promise that a weak financial situation will not drive away my dreams. Starting at a community college reignited innumerable possibilities for me. It gave me a second chance to pursue my dreams and cultivate the future I desired for myself. But most importantly, community college is a testament to the fact that education is the great equalizer, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth to anyone willing to seize them. It’s a beacon of hope for those who dare to dream, showing them that no matter where they come from or what challenges they face, they have the power to shape their own destiny.

Q: Why is it important to pursue a degree?

A: For me, pursuing a degree isn’t just about acquiring knowledge or obtaining a piece of paper; it’s about fulfilling a promise to myself and to those who believe in me. It’s about breaking the cycle of limitations and honoring my family’s sacrifices. For me, education was the only tool out of my misery and that is what a degree can represent for countless others. Pursuing a degree unlocks doors that were once closed, gives you a chance to make a difference, and make a name of your own. Education is a powerful tool for self-discovery and empowerment. If you use your purse to fill your head, no man can take that wealth away from you. So the countless sleepless nights, the hard work, the missed social outings, are temporary, the degree is permanent. And always remember, that your degree is your legacy and that is the only thing that will walk with you till your grave.

Q: Were there any professors or staff members who have helped you navigate college life/academics?

A: I’m indebted to three remarkable individuals at Middlesex College—Professor Rafael Manzanares, Ms. Evelyn Rosa, and Dr. Virender Kanwal. Ms. Rosa’s mentorship and leadership inspired me to excel beyond academics. Professor Manzanares not only guided me academically but also encouraged my passion for writing. Dr. Kanwal played a pivotal role in shaping my academic journey and fostering a passion for research. Their unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental in my personal and professional development. Grateful for their impact, I carry their lessons as I navigate my academic and professional endeavors.

Q: Who inspires you?

A: My mother embodies resilience and sacrifice, inspiring me to carve my own path. Witnessing her struggles post-divorce, I learned the importance of independence and education. Her sacrifices instilled in me a drive to pursue my dreams relentlessly. Education, for me, is more than a means to an end, it’s a lifelong companion and a testament to determination. I’m motivated by the belief that my education will define my legacy, transcending familial ties and shaping perceptions. Inspired by my mother’s journey, I strive to leave a lasting impact through my career, embodying values of resilience and determination.

Q: Do you have any advice for current students?

A: Don’t be afraid to be uncertain. Life outside of Middlesex College will be equally out of your control and unpredictable, but don’t be afraid to put your best foot forward. If you chase excellence and do the best you can, success will follow, regardless of where you go. Don’t be afraid to explore your passions or take the road less traveled. Work hard for your dreams and don’t waste your life living someone’s else dreams. The road ahead may be difficult, but remember that the best views always come after the hardest climbs. Say “yes” to opportunity and growth and be willing to stay optimistic and grateful. Live a tale that’s worth telling so that when this long adventure called life ends, you go out with a bang, leaving fireworks for those who can’t cast any of their own.