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WITI Women | Sonia Bhanot

4. Who has been the most influential person in your life? Why?
The two most influential people in my life are my father and my husband. My father was a tremendous man full of wisdom. He was an engineer who fueled my interest in technology and in helping people through the effective use of technology. Although he passed away six years ago, he also inspired me to be a straightforward, independent thinker in pursuit of my dreams.

My husband of over 11 years has also had an enormous impact on my life. We met while studying engineering in India and realized an amazing connection. We both strive to excel in whatever we do, but we help each other strive for new heights. He is my biggest fan and likewise, I am his. As a team, we constantly help each other as a two-way sounding board for ideas. I am privileged that my supportive spouse is also my best friend.

5. What lessons have you learned that would be valuable to women beginning their careers in technology?
Just do your best. Believe in yourself and do not give up.

6. What strategies do you use to maintain balance in your life?
Basically, I believe in working hard and playing hard.

My dog, Pebbles, is a wonderful listener after long or frustrating days. Conveniently, Pebbles is also a big fan and exuberant entertainer, my own personal stress relief!

Additionally, my husband and I love the outdoors. We hike, swim and ski at every opportunity. I must confess that my affinity for skiing was tested a few years ago when I fell and pulled a ligament. My leg was in a cast for 4 weeks. There I was rushing to make the last ski run (after all, there is always enough light for one more run). As I came down the hill, 'Big Foot' came across my path and I wiped out. The moral of the story is 'hit the guy and let him cushion the fall'!

I am also an avid investor. Reading to keep pace with daily market and technological developments keeps me busy until late at night. Some may find this activity monotonous and boring, but this is fun and relaxing for me.

7. What new technology do you believe will have the most positive impact on the world in the next 20 years? The most negative impact?
Internet technologies are shaping the world in which we live and will be the most important technologies with the most positive impact. I believe what we have seen so far with the Internet is just the tip of the iceberg. Global communications and online information access are the gold rush of the 21st century. The only difference is that the signs read, Cyberspace or bust!

Nuclear and biological weapons are the most destructive force that man has created. In the wrong hands, the consequences could be disastrous.

Sonia Bhanot answers these questions:
1. What was your first job in technology?
2. Who has been your most significant mentor? Why?
3. What has been your greatest challenge and what strategies did you use to overcome obstacles?
4. Who has been the most influential person in your life? Why?
5. What lessons have you learned that would be valuable to women beginning their careers in technology?
6. What strategies do you use to maintain balance in your life?
7. What new technology do you believe will have the most positive impact on the world in the next 20 years? The most negative impact?

On the lighter side:
1. If you could have dinner with any 2 people (living or not), who would they be?
2. Define success in 10 words or less.
3. If you could only subscribe to 3 magazines, what would they be?

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