On Wednesday, Nov. 15, the student organization TEDxJHU hosted their annual fall salon with the theme “A Carousel of Ideas.” The event featured four Hopkins students who delivered talks on topics ranging from menstruation’s power to reshape medicine, innovation, and equity; living an inquisitive life; and the future of space epidemiology. In his TEDx talk, First-year MS in Engineering Management student Devothama Gundugurki Narasimhamurthy’s explored how life’s unexpected turns can serve as powerful catalysts for self-discovery and transformation.
In his talk, he discusses how his full-time position after graduation left him unfulfilled and disconnected. After undergoing surgery, Devothama realized he needed a change, so he quit his job to travel and rediscover a meaningful hobby—photography. Through his travels, he learned that life does not always follow a single, straight path.
We spoke with Devothama, who is pursuing a technical track in electrical and computer science engineering, to learn more about his journey of self-discovery and how his time in the MSEM program influenced his TEDx talk.
1. What is your TEDx talk about and how did you develop the idea?
My TEDx talk, titled “Life Is Not a Straight Line,” explores how life doesn’t always follow a set blueprint. It’s about the unexpected detours we experience and how, in hindsight, every event and person we encounter plays a role in shaping who we’re meant to become. I developed the idea from my own journey of realizing that things eventually connect in ways we might not initially see.
Devothama, Julie Reiser, and MSEM students at the “Carousel of Ideas” TEDxJHU event.
2. How did Julie Reiser’s Professional Presentations course assist you in developing your presentation?
Julie Reiser’s Professional Presentations class helped me learn how to craft a story in a natural, genuine way. Her feedback encouraged deep self-reflection and helped me grow in how I speak, listen, and carry myself. That process made me a more confident communicator and person overall.
3. You also mentioned that Reiser’s Intro to Zen Meditation course helped you develop your talk. Can you tell us more about that?
Julie’s Zen practice, staying aligned in the moment and maintaining calm regardless of circumstances, has been one of the most impactful lessons for me. It taught me to stay centered and deliver my best in every situation. Her feedback in every class is something I truly admire because it’s genuine, thoughtful, and always helps me grow, not just as a speaker, but as a person.
4. Where do you think these varied experiences will lead you after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to move into a product management role that allows me to blend my technical background with my passion for photography, creativity, and storytelling. I want to build products that genuinely make the world a better and more connected place.