High Impact
Initiatives
Leadership is Influence: My Experience
Nikita Sehgal
The most valuable portion of my leadership experience with Kontagious was attending the 6-week Rare Leadership Program based around the influential book Rare Leadership by Marcus Warner & Jim Wilder.
As the SJSU chapter President at Kontagious, I discovered that leadership is more than just decision-making — a true leader builds relationships, leads with enthusiasm, and maintains equanimity under adversity.
Rare Leadership taught me to:
- Lead with joy rather than with fear or control Stay relational, even in conflict or stress
- Develop in emotional maturity, and not merely in skills
- Make amends swiftly when relationships are damaged
- Establish habits that build reliable, dependable leadership
What made this experience especially memorable was the way the program was operated. Facilitated by Kim and Virendra, the sessions were not merely book-reading sessions - they were dynamic discussion panels with a focus on practical application. Each session asked us to examine ourselves in real life, how we reacted under adversity, and alternative ways we could react with Rare Leadership.
This wasn't theory - this was change.
Diving into leadership with enthusiasm and fun! Rare Leadership program in action
It allowed me to lead more effectively and serve with greater empathy and sense of purpose. The impact that it has made in the way I show up to others and to myself has been immeasurable.
A sincere appreciation to John and Carol, who are the founders of Kontagious, for building such a meaningful place where students not only develop their profession but also their character and sense of purpose. Your vision is still touching and inspiring lives worldwide. If you are discovering leadership in any arena – community, professional, or personal - I highly recommend this book and program
Nikita Sehgal holds a Master’s degree in Medical Product Development from San Jose State University (SJSU) and a prior Master’s in Pharmaceutics from (JSS) Mysore. During her tenure as the SJSU Chapter President of Kontagious (2024–2025), Nikita demonstrated outstanding leadership and served as a role model, inspiring peers through her dedication and vision.
2007-2010
Meet Virendra and Kim Vase the inspiring leaders behind Kontagious' Rare Leadership program. Their humility, ability to simplify complex ideas, and genuine care make them invaluable mentors. We're thrilled to have them mentoring and guiding participants with their expertise and dedication. Join us!
Unlock your potential with the RARE Leadership Program!
This intensive 6-week course, featuring impactful 2-hour sessions each week, is designed to equip a small group of 10-12 professionals/students with vital leadership skills that reach far beyond the workplace. Collaborate, grow, and gain practical strategies for navigating real-life situations, from your career to your closest relationships. Led by experienced couples who share their personal journeys, RARE has a proven history of empowering professionals. If you're ready for significant personal growth and the tools to thrive in every aspect of life, express your interest and register below. We can't wait to welcome you!
Ready to thrive? Join RARE – limited spots available!
Networking: Key to my Kontagious Experience
Juhi Malkani
Making meaningful connections and building a community, all thanks to Cathy Smith's leadership
For me, Kontagious has been more than just an organization; its vibrant network has woven itself into the very fabric of my professional and personal life. From the moment I joined, I was welcomed into a community that understood the true power of connection. Through Kontagious, I've had the privilege of meeting so many incredible individuals, each enriching my journey in unique ways.
Some of these connections have blossomed into something akin to a second family. Living far from home, these are the people who celebrate my triumphs and offer unwavering support during challenging times. They've become the ones I share my joys with, the ones who offer guidance and wisdom reminiscent of the mentors and family I cherish back home. In times of need, their support has been as steadfast and comforting as that of my own family.
The concept of networking, as Kontagious embodies it, resonates deeply with the "Six Degrees of Separation" theory. It's astonishing to realize how interconnected we all are, often just a few introductions away from reaching almost anyone. However, Kontagious taught me that effective networking goes far beyond simply collecting contacts. It's a deliberate and heartfelt practice – actively engaging with others, genuinely seeking to understand their passions and aspirations, and nurturing authentic relationships grounded in mutual respect.
Networking on Entrepreneurship, led by Julianne & Ken Raasch
As my network within Kontagious has grown, so too has my perspective and my capacity for growth, especially in my leadership journey. The diverse viewpoints and experiences shared within this community have broadened my understanding of the world and shaped me into someone who can connect with and inspire others more effectively.
Kontagious provides a unique platform to cultivate this kind of network. You're given the opportunity to connect with people in various stages of their lives, each offering invaluable lessons and opportunities for mutual growth. You encounter individuals from diverse backgrounds, and within these interactions, you discover not just professional contacts, but genuine friends and a supportive family that you carry with you.
Mastering the Silicon Valley game: networking with professionals. The ultimate goal for every graduate.
I am profoundly grateful to be a part of Kontagious. It's through this incredible community that I've met some truly amazing friends and mentors. Some of these relationships have blossomed into a second family, a constant source of strength and support in every situation, both joyful and difficult. None of this enriching experience would have been possible without Kontagious, and for that, my gratitude is boundless
Juhi Malkani, a graduate of San Jose State University, served as a dedicated Vice President of the Kontagious SJSU chapter in 2023-24. As an alumna, she is currently working at TradeZero USA Inc. Her contributions to Kontagious leadership have consistently been commendable.
2007-2010
Degree
University Name
Meet Cathy Smith, President of ELREPCO Inc. in Los Gatos, California. Cathy has been an invaluable force in our community, particularly in spearheading our networking events. She's the driving force behind our successful networking events, connecting us with key professionals. We’re so grateful for her leadership!
Connect and Grow with Us at Our Next Networking Event!
Are you a seasoned professional looking to share your expertise and give back, or a student eager to expand your network and explore exciting opportunities? Then you're invited to join our upcoming networking event! It's a fantastic chance for everyone to connect, learn, and grow.
We'd love to welcome you. Simply follow us and sign up through the link below.
Don't miss out – register today and we look forward to connecting with you! Welcome!
Interview Prep program: My Kontagious Journey
Parag Deshpande
Interview night: A valuable evening of learning with alumni leaders –Sindhuja, Neha, Apoorva, Pinky & David
Picture this: a rainy afternoon, a cozy welcome lunch, and a conversation that changes everything. That’s how my journey with Kontagious began. I was just settling into life in a new country when a quick chat with John, the director, sparked something in me—a hunger to grow, lead, and carve my own path in the U.S. job market. I’m Parag, and I’m here to share how Kontagious became my roadmap to success—and how it can be yours too.
Beyond the Basics: Interview Strategies with a Personal Touch – Led by Rohan, Sindhuja, and Muteeb.
Right from my first semester, I jumped into Kontagious events with one goal: to crack the code of the U.S. job market. I wanted to learn how to network, understand hiring, and build connections that would open doors. What I found was so much more—a vibrant community, practical tools, and mentors who genuinely cared. Two programs, in particular, transformed my journey and gave me the confidence to chase my dreams.
My career trajectory changed, thanks to Kontagious resume writing led by Pramod. Deeply grateful for your invaluable contribution!
A Resume That Tells Your Story
The first game-changer was the Resume Writing Workshop, led by the incredible Pramod. I thought I knew what a resume was—until this workshop flipped the script. It wasn’t about listing jobs or skills; it was about crafting a story that screamed you. With Pramod’s guidance, I built a resume that felt authentic and powerful, one that made me stand out in a sea of applicants. If you’re starting your career journey, trust me—this workshop is your launchpad. You’ll walk away with a resume that’s not just good, but unforgettable.
Resumes that resonate. Crafting your story to capture recruiter attention - led by Pramod
Interviews That Feel Like Conversations
Then came the Internship Prep Sessions, and let me tell you—they were a lifeline. Led by alumni mentors like Sindhuja, Rohan, and Muteeb, these sessions covered it all: how to network without feeling awkward, how to tackle tough interview questions, and how to keep going when the job search feels overwhelming. These weren’t just teachers—they were people who’d been in my shoes, sharing real advice and cheering me on. They were always there to answer my questions, no matter how small, and their encouragement gave me the courage to push forward. Thanks to them, I didn’t just land internships—I learned how to shine in a competitive market.
The face of accomplishment! After a deep-dive 5-hour session, fueled by the drive to see our graduates thrive.
Why Kontagious? It’s Your Community
Kontagious isn’t just a program—it’s a family. It’s a place where you can grow, lead, and connect with people who are rooting for you. Serving as Vice President last year showed me just how many doors Kontagious opens, from leadership roles to lifelong friendships. It’s more than a network; it’s a space to discover who you can become.
I can’t thank Kontagious enough for the clarity, confidence, and community it gave me. It didn’t just help me prepare—it changed how I see my career and what’s possible. Now, I’m inviting you to take that first step. Connect with the Kontagious team, join an event, and see how far you can go when you’ve got the right support.
Hundreds empowered! Another resume writing workshop in action, shaping futures.
Your Next Big Step: The Ultimate Interview Prep Guide
We’re beyond excited to share something special: The Ultimate Interview Prep Guide: Powered by Kontagious. This peer-led program is designed to meet you exactly where you are and help you soar, whether you’re hunting for your first internship or aiming for a full-time role. We’ve crafted two levels to guide you every step of the way:
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Level 1: Ace Your Internship Hunt
Just starting out? This track is for you. It’s packed with strategies, tools, and encouragement to help you land your dream internship. We’ve seen students—especially those new to the U.S.—transform from nervous to unstoppable, and we can’t wait to help you shine too. -
Level 2: Conquer Full-Time Job Interviews
Ready for the next chapter? This advanced track builds on the basics, sharpening your technical skills and preparing you for even the toughest interviews. It’s like a personal coach for your career, helping you step into full-time roles with confidence.
What makes this program so powerful? It’s led by alumni like Rohan Pandey (Cisco), Sindhuja Ravi (Lucid Motors), and Muteeb Akram (NVIDIA)—real people who’ve walked this path and are now paying it forward. Their wisdom, passion, and insider tips are what set this program apart, and the success stories from students like you prove it works.
Rohan Pandey, an alumnus of Santa Clara University (SCU) and former Vice President of the SCU Kontagious chapter during his graduate studies, is currently a Senior Software Engineer at ThousandEyes (Cisco). With over seven years of professional experience from Tesla and Volvo, Rohan demonstrates a strong commitment to leadership as a dedicated trainer and mentor to many students.
As a dedicated Vice President for the Kontagious chapter from 2024-25, Parag Deshpande, a Master's student at SJSU, demonstrated excellent leadership qualities and made significant contributions towards improving student engagement. We deeply value his journey and his impact as a leader.
Ready to Shine? Join Us!
Your career journey is yours to shape, and Kontagious is here to help you make it extraordinary. If you’re ready to level up your interview skills and unlock your potential, don’t wait. Register today using the event tag: interview prep.
Master Your Interview Skills with Kontagious Prep!
Let’s take this journey together—your dream job is closer than you think.