Meet the GYMbassadors
Where graduates become guides. Where alumni become ambassadors.
The founding class of the GYMbassadors Club.
These Leadership GYM graduates kept going — staying connected, mentoring newer students, and carrying the GYM mission into their schools, careers, and communities.
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Aarush Reddy
Phoenix, AZ · Freshman, University of Arizona.
I am currently a freshman at the University of Arizona, studying Physiology and Medical Sciences, with a goal of becoming a physician. Advocacy for people who are often overlooked, particularly older adults, is what drives me as a leader.
Favorite GYM lesson: "The morning ritual helps motivate me and reminds me of my tasks for the day, which allows me to stay focused."
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Aashish Appakonam
Chandler, AZ · Software Engineer, Garmin.
I'm a software engineer developing automotive and outdoor mobile apps. When leading, my core motivation is watching people grow and take pride in what they create.
Favorite GYM lesson: "Writing down goals and tasks, and breaking down larger tasks into smaller chunks."
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Akhilesh Appakonam
Metz, France · Grad Student, Georgia Tech-Europe.
I am pursuing my Master's in Aerospace Engineering while building on my experience as a Modeling & Simulation Engineer.
Favorite GYM lesson: "Leadership is rooted in service. Making a lasting impact is shown through consistency and integrity."
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Pranavi Vuppala
Minneapolis, MN · P2, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy.
I am in pharmacy school, passionate about patient education and ensuring patients stay compliant with their meds.
Favorite GYM lesson: "Stepping out of my comfort zone is what's stayed with me most — it's led me a thousand miles from home, doing what I love."
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Pranjal Kumar
Dallas, TX · Legal Analyst, Goldman Sachs.
I work as a legal analyst on Goldman Sachs' equities team, advising on high-stakes stock offerings.
Favorite GYM lesson: "The law of serendipity: faith in hard work, and the belief that the outcome will come when you devote yourself to the process."
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Sai Sailam
Edison, NJ · Sophomore, Muhlenberg College (7-yr Penn Dental Program).
I am conducting research on possible therapeutics for Alzheimer's Disease alongside students and faculty at Muhlenberg.
Favorite GYM lesson: "Improving your lifestyle doesn't have to be difficult; even a small five-degree turn can make the biggest difference if you're consistent."
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Shreya Guggilla
Amherst, MA · Junior, Amherst College.
I’m currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Law, Jurisprudence, & Social Thought. I aspire to be a criminal or civil rights attorney to advocate for those who are silenced and face barriers to justice.
Favorite GYM lesson: "The confidence lessons from GYM have helped me most, with my self-esteem and my public speaking skills."
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Sruthi Sudalaimuthu
Phoenix, AZ · Medical Student, Midwestern University.
I'm a first-year medical student with a background in public health and a passion for health equity and mentorship. I founded an AANHPI student advocacy organization.
Favorite GYM lesson: "Continually working toward the 'best version of myself' — always asking how I can use my strengths to serve others."
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Sruti Sailam
Edison, NJ · GPR Resident, Overlook Hospital.
I am a GPR Dental resident and will start my Endodontics Residency at Tufts University next year.
Favorite GYM lesson: "Creating work-life balance and prioritizing hobbies while working towards my goals."
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Laya Reddy
Favorite GYM lesson: "Eat your frogs first! It's a reminder to tackle the biggest, most daunting tasks even when they seem the least appealing."