ASU Alumna Anisha Hindocha Helps Students Across Borders to Participate in Global Robotics Competition

Many individuals find themselves working with others across cultural barriers and national borders in today’s world that has been transformed by globalization.

This global cooperation in the business world has become increasingly important due the shift in the social dynamics existing between the Leaders of the United States and the rest of the world in the modern era.

Anisha Hindocha, ASU Alumna and Director of logistics at FIRST Global, works everyday with international corporations and governments in order to ensure that Students from more than 140 countries have the opportunity to participate in a global robotics competition.

Dealing with countries with varied social norms, Hindocha had to adapt — and the years she spent at Arizona State University's School of Politics and Global Studies (SPGS) has helped her to take it in stride. According to Hindocha, the aspect of getting used to the work schedule of different cultures was one of the challenges that she faced.

Before this job I knew that the Muslim world doesn't work on Fridays but I had never been affected by it. Now, though, I know I can't make calls there on Fridays, which means changing my schedule a lot.

Anisha Hindocha, ASU Alumna and Director of logistics at FIRST Global

While working at FIRST Global, dealing with the State Department and various other international groups, Hindocha also had to handle the trickiness of global politics. This refers to that aspect of coping with policies, such as the proposed travel ban on Muslim-majority nations by President Trump, and also guaranteeing that Students in nations that are economically sanctioned have access to the robotics kits important for the competition.

“My learning experiences at SPGS have taught me to be detailed and meticulous which are key to my job," Hindocha said. "Additionally, I have learned to communicate best with people from around the world, who are of my faiths, creeds and cultures.”

Hindocha completed a junior fellowship with Political Science Lecturer Gina Woodall during her time at ASU.

I think that opportunity helped me a lot. It taught me to be dedicated to students, which has translated into what I do now.

Anisha Hindocha, ASU Alumna and Director of logistics at FIRST Global

Talking about her time at FIRST Global, Hindocha stated the most rewarding part of the job was helping the Students, whether by ensuring their robot was received or with visa applications.

“[It’s] about the kids and giving them the opportunity to build a robot, and when one of those things becomes a reality, nothing is more rewarding.”