Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my keen interest in the Academic Engagement Manager position at Swissnex
in India, as advertised. With my diverse academic background, extensive experience in project
coordination, research, and communication, along with a fervent enthusiasm for fostering
interdisciplinary collaborations, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team and
further Swissnex's mission.

Having pursued a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism, with a focus on gender caste and
media, I have honed my skills in research, analysis, and storytelling. My academic journey has
equipped me with a nuanced understanding of societal dynamics and the power of narratives in
shaping perceptions and driving change. Furthermore, my thesis work on food as a gendered message
in popular Hindi cinema exemplifies my ability to delve into complex topics and extract meaningful
insights—a skill that I believe is directly applicable to this role.

My professional trajectory, spanning roles such as Project Coordinator, Founder, and Journalist, has
provided me with hands-on experience in project management, stakeholder engagement, and
collaboration. My stint as a Resident Researcher with The Digital Everyday highlights my capacity to
navigate digital spaces and address issues related to social justice—an area of increasing relevance in
today's global landscape. Additionally, as the Founder of Wine and Wasabi, I conceptualized and
organized literature-themed dinner experiences, fostering dialogues on food, identity, and culture—a
testament to my creativity, organizational skills, and ability to engage diverse audiences.

I am particularly drawn to the multifaceted nature of the role at Swissnex, which calls for not only
project coordination and development but also a keen understanding of academic ecosystems and a
proactive approach to stakeholder engagement. My experience in managing academic projects,
coupled with my research background positions me well to contribute to the strategic objectives of
Swissnex, having experienced first-hand internationally collaborative work as part of the Room
Where It Happens project, as well as my Summer School experience. Moreover, my exposure to
diverse cultural contexts, grassroots engagement and unique career trajectory highlights my ability to
thrive in an international, multicultural environment—a quality essential for effective collaboration
within the team.

What excites me most about this opportunity is the prospect of working at the intersection of
academia, innovation, and international relations—a space where I believe my interdisciplinary
background and passion for communication research can truly make a difference. I am eager to
leverage my skills and experiences to not only support Swiss researchers in their collaborations with
India but also to facilitate enriching experiences for budding Indian researchers on the global stage.

In conclusion, I am enthusiastic about the possibility of contributing to the dynamic and inclusive
culture at Swissnex and am committed to driving impactful initiatives that advance the organization's
goals. I am confident that my blend of academic rigor, professional expertise, and cultural fluency
makes me a strong candidate for the position. Thank you for considering my application. I look
forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background and aspirations align with the vision of
Swissnex.

Sincerely,
Sulagna Maitra.
+91-8910939353
sulagnasays@gmail.com