How Bhavana Ginjupally found her calling in computer science 

In 2016, like any teenager, Bhavana Ginjupally found herself unsure about her future academic path.

Growing up in India, her decision to study computer science was not driven by a lifelong passion, but rather curiosity and circumstance. Ginjupally’s brother was studying in the same field, and, as she said,  "computer science sounded cool." Today, Ginjupally is not just a computer science graduate—she’s a full-time instructor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, inspiring the next generation of tech professionals.

“It all started with helping my friends’ study,” Ginjupally says. “They were smart but lazy, and I’d explain topics to them before exams. It was my way of contributing, and it gradually led me to realize that teaching was my calling.”

Ginjupally's journey from a college student in India to an instructor at the University of South Carolina is marked by her passion for teaching and a love for computer science. Her first exposure to programming came during a C programming (language) course in her second semester of college, where solving logical problems through coding sparked a passion that has remained with her.

Ginjupally finds great joy in seeing her students succeed. “When a struggling student finally completes an assignment and does a little dance of joy, it’s incredibly rewarding,” she says. “Knowing I played a role in helping them understand—that’s what makes this job so fulfilling.” 

But her teaching career has not been without challenges. Starting as a full-time instructor at just 23, Ginjupally had to navigate being taken seriously by students, including some who were older than her. 

“There were times when students didn’t see me as a full-time faculty member because of my age,” she says. “But I’ve learned to set boundaries while also being approachable.”

Ginjupally also stresses the importance of staying current in computer science. To keep up, she attends seminars and webinars and engages with trends on social media. “The logic to solve a problem doesn’t change, but the methods can vary,” she says.

Her connection with students is strengthened by her ability to relate to their interests, whether using the latest Marvel movie or an NFL game as a teaching example.

“I love USC, and I’d love to continue here. But even if I move back to India, I’ll always find a way to teach,” she says. “I was once a clueless kid, and now I’m here. Just jump in and see where it takes you. Ask for help, and don’t be afraid to ask stupid questions. That’s how you learn.” 

Ginjupally’s journey is a testament to the power of curiosity and the impact of passionate educators. Her story is a reminder that sometimes, taking a leap of faith can lead to the most rewarding paths.