MARTINRAJ ARULMANI NADAR's Success Story
About Martin Nadar:
Martin hails from the busy streets of Mumbai, India. He landed in Miami on a heat-driven evening in August 2022. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Computer Science at FAU. On an academic front, he is interested in developing web applications in Java using the Spring framework. His recreational interests are playing blues-rock, powerlifting, and mixed-martial arts (MMA).
Martin's mother is a school teacher by the day and an avid cook by the night, who can give you a science lesson on jewelry, whereas his father is perhaps the humblest school principal one could ever meet. Some of his father's interests include being by nature, consuming caffeine, and creating playful chaos in the family.
Questions About Being an International Student:
Why did you choose FAU? What do you like about FAU the most?
The list of courses offered along with the vibrant student life led me to realize my educational dreams at FAU. The trait that sets FAU apart is the emphasis on extracurriculars. Additionally, FAU has a great mix of student organizations promoting different cultures that help one truly exercise internationalism.
What is the most exciting part about being an international student?
The most exciting aspect of being an international student is the exposure to different cultures and the opportunity to engage with people from different backgrounds. It’s fascinating to experience how different the systems and the people who run the systems are when compared to one’s own country.
What has been your biggest challenge as an international student? How did you respond to orovercome that challenge?
The biggest challenge by far has been continuing my passions and keeping track of nutrition while focusing on academics. I was able to tackle the challenges and stick to my passions by taking advantage of the Recreation Center and the different Group Fitness programs offered by it. As far as nutrition is concerned, I simply surfed the internet world to find the balance between caloric density and micronutrients.
What is your advice for international students who are starting at FAU?
My biggest advice to incoming international students would be to participate in as many events as they can regardless of the nature of the event. Academic events can only get you so far, be involved in non-academic events as well. To put things into perspective- I was able to bag an interview opportunity with the ISS office merely based on a light-hearted conversation with one of the recruiters at a fun event.
Questions About Your Future Goals:
What is your future endeavor?
I aspire to work as a web application developer who specializes in Object-Oriented Programming. I aim to further my working knowledge of Java and its supporting technologies in the process.
How did you get into that passion/endeavor?
It was fueled by the interest I had developed in programming during my baccalaureate year. Initially, it served as a need to better my scores in a subject called Structured Programming Approach (SPA). However, I slowly developed an interest in programming and realized that my interest truly lies in the field of computer software.
What does that goal mean to you? What is the impact on you and/or others?
I believe software solutions have the capability to solve day-to-day problems we face in our lives. Being a software developer allows me to address those problems and add value to society.
Fun Questions:
What is your favorite spot at FAU campus?
The Recreation Center, without a shadow of a doubt. The vast array of equipment paired with a host of programs that cater to the fitness needs of everyone, make it a perfect avenue to let oneself be in sync with their mind, body, and soul.
Where do you want to travel in the U.S./ Where have you already travelled to?
I have mostly hovered around different cities in Florida, however, I am inclined to explore the getaways of Georgia. It’s a ticket to get immersed in nature and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Recommend a favorite book/movie/local restaurant?
Arun’s Indian Kitchen is my restaurant of choice in Boca. It satiates my need for authentic Indian food. They offer a wide range of traditional Indian dishes at pocket-friendly prices. By offering different levels of spice, they are truly able to adhere to the needs of the American palette while still sticking to their Indian roots.
A quote that motivates you the most.
The quote that I have been resonating with the most recently is from Bhagavad Gita- “You have a right to perform your prescribed duty, but you are not entitled to the fruits of action.” It highlights the fact that you can only control your actions, not the results. When working towards a goal in life, it’s better to focus on actions rather than the end result.