Transitioning from a software engineering background to becoming an accomplished Associate Professor, Dr. Priyanka Mathur has balanced her professional responsibilities and personal aspirations with grace. Her accomplishments in education, leadership, and her role as a nurturing mother reflect her drive to make a positive impact. She has been in the field of education for the last 15 years.

Dr. Priyanka Mathur, an Associate Professor at Manipal University, Jaipur, has dedicated her life to the field of education. Despite starting her professional journey in the software development industry, her passion for teaching led her to pursue a fulfilling career in academics. As a software engineer by education, Dr. Mathur's transition into teaching has been rewarding, and she continues to find joy in shaping young minds.

Recalling her early years, Dr. Priyanka reflects on her well-rounded upbringing. Raised in a family where education and encouragement were central, she feels fortunate to have been constantly supported by her parents. Her father, a doctor, and her mother, a homemaker, provided a nurturing environment that allowed her to explore and seize every opportunity she desired. Dr. Mathur attended Sophia Senior Secondary School in Ajmer, a place she cherishes for its role in her development. After completing her secondary education, she moved to Delhi for her post-graduation and had the opportunity to work with a well-established software company, further broadening her horizons.

Dr. Mathur acknowledges that her journey has not been without its challenges. As a teenager and young adult, she struggled with the lack of proper guidance when it came to choosing non-conventional career paths. Reflecting on her own experiences, she admits that if she had received better career counselling, she might have chosen a different or more suitable career option earlier in life. Despite this, she is grateful for the path she eventually found, as it led her to her passion for teaching.

Dr. Priyanka candidly discusses her mistakes, highlighting how the lack of focus in her younger years affected her career choices. She initially pursued science, then shifted to commerce, only to return to science later. This indecision cost her valuable time and clarity. She also regrets leaving a stable Central Government job to move to another city, which, in hindsight, was another example of her early lack of focus. Despite these setbacks, Mathur views her mistakes as important learning experiences that helped shape her personal and professional journey.

As an educator, Dr. Priyanka finds great satisfaction in her accomplishments. She takes pride in her professional achievements, considering herself an efficient individual, a reliable colleague, and a capable team leader. In her personal life, she is most proud of being a mother to two daughters, a role she considers one of her greatest accomplishments. The balance she maintains between her work and family is a testament to her commitment to both her career and her personal life.

Dr. Mathur draws inspiration from figures like Ratan Tata, whom she admires for his leadership and progressive approach. She particularly respects his initiative to reward even failed ideas, teaching people that failure is an inevitable part of life and a stepping stone to future success. His philosophy resonates deeply with her own belief in perseverance and learning from setbacks.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Dr. Priyanka enjoys a variety of hobbies that bring her peace and joy. Gardening is one of her favourite pastimes, allowing her to connect with nature and find solace in nurturing life. Additionally, she loves reading, travelling, and blogging about her travel experiences. These activities give her a creative outlet and help her unwind from the demands of her career.

For mental peace, Dr. Mathur turns to meditation and music. She believes that taking time for self-care is crucial for maintaining balance in life. The soothing effects of meditation and calming music help her stay centred and grounded, allowing her to manage the challenges of her professional and personal life with grace.

Dr. Priyanka’s life mantra, "It is not about years to life; it is life to years," reflects her philosophy of living each moment fully. She believes in making the most of every opportunity and every day, ensuring that life is lived with purpose and passion. She strives to maintain equilibrium in all areas of her life, balancing work, family, and friendships in a way that brings her fulfilment.

Offering advice to the younger generation, Dr. Mathur stresses the importance of staying away from distractions, particularly social media. While she acknowledges the value of social media for learning and upgrading one's skills, she warns against its potential to become a distraction. She advises young people to focus on their core strengths and weaknesses when making career decisions, ensuring that they choose paths that align with their true passions and abilities.

Dr. Priyanka’s journey is a powerful reminder that life is a series of learning experiences.