Each month, we highlight members of GW Engineering's administrative team, whose tireless work keeps our school moving forward.
Diyora Shodmonova is a key member of the administrative team within the Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME). This team is essential to the department’s operations, acting as the backbone that keeps the BME community running smoothly. From coordinating events to managing academic processes and ensuring resources are available, BME team members like Dioyra play a crucial role in these efforts, thereby ensuring a seamless experience for everyone in the department. Get to know November’s Local Hero, Diyora Shodmonova, in the Q&A below!
Q: How long have you been working at GW, and what is your position?
A: I’ve been working at GW for about 2 years, and I currently serve as the Operations Assistant in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. In this role, I support faculty, students, and staff with a variety of administrative and academic processes, from coordinating events and scheduling to helping the department run smoothly day-to-day.
Q: What led you to this career?
A: I’ve always been passionate about helping people and creating organized, welcoming environments where others can succeed. My background in psychology and my interest in management made operations work a natural fit. It allows me to combine interpersonal understanding with problem-solving and structure.
Q: Why did you choose GW?
A: I completed my undergraduate studies here and saw firsthand how dedicated the university is to excellence, innovation, and community. During my time as a student, I experienced the supportive and collaborative environment that makes GW special, so when the opportunity came to contribute as a staff member, it felt like a natural next step.
Q: What is one thing you wish you'd known when you started working at GW?
A: I wish I’d known how important it is to reach out and build relationships early on. GW has such a collaborative and supportive community, and connecting with colleagues across departments opens up so many opportunities to learn, grow, and make an impact together.
Q: What is your favorite part about working at GW Engineering?
A: I love working at GW Engineering because I feel supported not only in my professional growth but also on a personal level. The people I’ve met, my coworkers and colleagues across different departments, make the workplace truly special. I also appreciate that GW Engineering encourages me to attend conferences and trainings, which shows how much they care about my development. I’m really grateful for the support I’ve received here, and it motivates me to give back even more to the community.
My recommendation to other staff members is to take advantage of the professional development opportunities available and don’t hesitate to submit your proposal to the SEAS Professional Development Committee for review!
Q: Why would someone want to work at GW Engineering?
A: GW Engineering is a place where you feel valued and supported. It’s a community that encourages growth, collaboration, and innovation. You get to work with inspiring people who are passionate about what they do and are always willing to help each other. There are also great opportunities for professional development, so you can keep learning and advancing in your career while being part of a team that truly cares about your success.
Q: What is your biggest work pet peeve?
A: My biggest work pet peeve is miscommunication. Clear and timely communication makes such a big difference in how smoothly things run, and when it doesn’t happen, it can cause unnecessary confusion. I’ve learned that a quick follow-up or clarification can go a long way in keeping everyone on the same page.
Q: What’s your ideal way to spend the weekend?
A: My ideal weekend is about recharging and learning something new. I enjoy attending cultural events around D.C. and exploring different traditions and perspectives. I also like taking long walks while listening to music or a podcast, and spending some time reflecting before the week starts.
Q: What's one of your favorite memories from the past year?
A: One of my favorite memories from the past year was attending the HPAIR conference and representing GW. It was such an inspiring experience to connect with passionate young leaders from around the world and exchange ideas about creating positive change. It reminded me how powerful it is when people from different backgrounds come together with a shared purpose.
Q: Tell us something people don’t know about you.
A: Something people don’t know about me is that I love learning new languages. I find it fascinating how language connects people and opens doors to different cultures and perspectives.