Harshitha Gajula has long loved solving problems and understanding the “why” behind people’s actions.
Her passion drove her to pursue her first degree in forensic science and onward to The University of Baltimore for a master’s degree in Cyber Forensics.
She spent her graduate studies researching an illicit drug called medetomidine that has been found in street samples mixed with fentanyl. She wants to help law enforcement better understand what’s behind the active ingredient to help them find connections to common sources.
There was no better way for Harshitha to culminate her master’s studies than by attending a conference where she could present her research and kickoff her future in the field she’s long worked toward.
“At the national Eastern Analytical Symposium conference, my research was very well-received—several people even approached me afterward to talk more about it,” Harshitha said. “It made me realize the real-world impact of my work and pushed me to communicate science in a simple and clear way.”
Harshitha was thankful for the experience, which was one of two conferences she participated in as a UBalt student. Earlier in her academic program, she presented at the Maryland Consortium of Criminal Justice College Educators (MCCJCE) conference.
The University gave her a Student Professional Development Grant so she could attend both the local and national conferences. Additional funding through the Turner Research and Travel Award covered her costs for the national conference, held in New Jersey.
“These grants made a huge difference—they allowed me to attend conferences, connect with professionals, get feedback, and grow my skills and confidence,” Harshitha said. “UBalt didn’t just give me a classroom experience, it gave me real opportunities to grow as a student and researcher.”
She was grateful, too, for the support she received from Ioan Marginean, the associate professor who served as her research adviser.
“Dr. Ioan Marginean influenced me the most,” she said. “When I first approached him, he was very supportive. Since my field is cyber forensics, I thought the science part of the research would be challenging, but he guided me patiently and taught me the basics. His encouragement and guidance helped me gain confidence and succeed in my research.”
Harshitha hopes to continue research work while pursuing a Ph.D. in the future.
Harshitha chose UBalt for its M.S. in Cyber Forensics program. Her undergraduate program helped her learn how much evidence can shape an investigation. Realizing that technology is increasingly involved in crime, she wanted a stronger foundation in the digital side of investigations.
“When I looked at the cyber forensics program here, it felt very hands-on and career focused. And honestly, when I first visited, the faculty seemed really approachable, so it felt like the right fit for me,” she said.
The program was exactly what she had hoped for: a mix of technical skills and practical experience.
“The faculty introduced us to tools used in real investigations, and my research gave me hands-on lab and analytical skills,” she said.
While she worked toward her degree, Harshitha held an internship and a job. Balancing everything was difficult, she said, but it taught her time management.
And her parents motivated her every step.
“They were with me on my good and worst days, even though they were miles away,” she said. “They always used to call me. They always supported me. They always used to cheer me. They are proud of me right now. I can never forget the sacrifices they made and the hard work they put in for me—that kept me motivated whenever I felt like giving up.”
Harshitha found a summer internship with the Maryland Department of the Environment through the Schaefer Center for Public Policy’s NextGen for Leaders for Public Service program at UBalt. Her work focused on the lead poisoning prevention program.
She also worked as a student assistant in the dean’s office for the College of Public Affairs and as a graduate assistant for the Second Chance College Program.
The work opportunities helped Harshitha build some confidence in speaking with others and helped her feel more welcome in the community.
Now on the brink of her graduation, Harshitha knows she will miss the people at UBalt the most.
“When I first came from India to pursue my master’s at UBalt, I was nervous and unsure if I had made the right choice,” she said. “Over the past two years, I’ve grown in so many ways—academically, professionally and personally. From attending conferences and conducting research to completing internships and receiving support through grants, every experience helped me gain confidence and skills I never imagined I could have. UBalt gave me opportunities, a supportive community and the chance to push myself beyond my comfort zone. I feel proud of how far I’ve come and excited for the next chapter of my journey.”