Neha Tokala
Student
Kelley School of Business
As a student entering her second year, Neha Tokalahas already made an impact as an intern to IU Student Body President Kyle Seibert, working to advocate for students and organizing meetings with student groups to hear feedback on the IUB 2030 strategic plan.
She has also contributed to 180 Degrees Consulting, an international organization that provides consultations and strategies for nonprofits, is a member of the IU Student Government’s Treasury Department where she aids in creating the monthly budget reports, and is the chief financial officer of IndianaMUN.
Neha is a Hutton Honors Scholar studying public policy analysis with a minor in political science and economics at the Kelley School of Business.
Q: How did you discover your interest in public policy and political science? Where do you see yourself in these fields moving forward?
A: I discovered my interest in policy in my hometown of Aurora, Illinois, where I was fortunate enough to intern at my local state representative’s office. From there, I also worked on political campaigns ranging from district to federal and found a passion for working one-on-one with individuals and engaging in collaborative settings. Coming here to IU, I continue to develop that passion for consulting, shifting from a legal or governmental perspective to more of a corporate one. With 180 DC and IU Student Government, I have been able to work with such a diverse group of individuals and clients. In the future, I hope to pursue my passion for consulting and advocacy while continuing to contribute back to my community.
Q: As a first-year student, what events, clubs, and communities at IU were supportive of you and your endeavors? Do you have any favorite faculty or staff members you’ve connected with?
A: The faculty and peers I have worked and connected with so far have been instrumental in helping me find my passions and furthering my interests here at Indiana University. Judy Failer, my political science professor, has encouraged me to think outside the box and led me to pursue political science as a minor. In terms of peers who have encouraged me, Kyle Seibert has served as a strong guide and helped me learn so much about IU! I have also found an overwhelming amount of support through other activities such as Indiana Model UN and going through the new member education process of the Phi Gamma Nu business fraternity, as well.
Left: Neha and friends celebrate Diwali at an Indian Student Association-sponsored event at Indiana University. Top: Neha’s class of PGN gathers for a charcuterie board night. Right: Neha and her team placed third at the annual Kelley Impact Competition that targets social issues in Bloomington, Indiana.
Q: What was your favorite part about being an intern to the IU Student Body President? What kind of work have you done to support students?
A: My favorite part about being an intern was getting to know and experience IU at a different level. I have been able to meet with various student organizations to understand what struggles they are facing here at IU and what solutions can be incorporated to help alleviate them. An issue I was particularly passionate about was that many students were unaware of the late-night transportation services available to them. Along with the Directors of Title IX and Sexual Prevention, we collaborated to make the services available on the IU mobile app. As I continue my involvement with IU Student Government, I hope to implement other helpful aid and assistance to students.
Q: You also work as a junior consultant with the 180 Degrees Consulting through Kelley, which aims to economically develop a nonprofit to help more people. What’s the most rewarding part of working with nonprofits?
A: Most of the time, nonprofit organizations have a dedicated team of individuals who strongly support the cause they believe in yet require assistance to further their outreach and mission. It is so rewarding to be able to use the knowledge and expertise I have gained through 180 DC and my courses to benefit these organizations with such strong missions. Even if the recommendations we make are smaller suggestions, it makes a lasting impact on the organization and serves as stepping stones for greater success in the future. I work with an incredibly talented team that helps me grow my professional skills while also collaborating with them to contribute to a greater cause.
Q: What do you look forward to at IU going forward?
A: In my first year, I was able to make many memories and friendships through my involvement in IndianaMUN, 180 Degrees Consulting, and more. I hope, as I continue forward, I develop more valuable relationships with my peers and strengthen my connection with the community as well. Most importantly, however, I aim to further my engagement with IU Student Government and strengthen my skills to better serve students.
