Page 45 - Digital Version For Web SDW Bridal 2015 (2)

Profile of a San Diego Woman

Keerti Sharma

Born in Delhi, India, and raised all over India, I was
always a shy and quiet child. I put all my energy and
attention into academics, art and athletics, yes the
three As. I was the middle child, and that definitely
influenced my being independent, hardworking and a
perfectionist.

I am a restless person by nature, who is constantly
seeking, and yearning to learn new skills and pursue
new hobbies. Being here, in the U.S., has definitely
made it easier for me to chase all my passions. I have
scratched the surface of quite a few things, taking
classes for photography, dance, tennis, golf, and
guitar.

Ever since I left home, at the age of 17, I have
been constantly reinventing myself. I trained as an
architect in my undergrad, and worked for two years
on a few interesting projects in Chandigarh, before
I moved to the U.S. In 2000, for my masters in
Computer Science. Soon after, I joined Qualcomm as
a Software Engineer. I have worked at Qualcomm for
12+ years now.
I feel the itch again, and now, I am dabbling with
writing and illustrating Children's books. I am
enrolled in a Certificate Program to do just that,
while taking other art classes at UCSD, like Figure
Drawing and painting. San Diego Woman
I thrive in challenging myself. I was always a track &
field person, growing up, but moved to badminton, in
9th grade and went on to play school Nationals,
winning gold. in 12th grade. 45
After my son was born, organized sports became
hard to continue. So I picked up running. When I
started, I could barely run a mile. I have since run 6
half marathons, 2 10 mile races and 2 10K races, all in
last 4 years. I am currently pursuing tennis and golf,
in full swing.

Becoming a mom has been a life changing experience.
It comes with its challenges, a balancing act that's
hard to achieve. But I have taken it as an opportunity
at a second chance at learning things I couldn't as a
child. My son, who is not only brilliant, affectionate
and has a wonderful ear for music, has inspired me
to pick up a musical instrument, and learn with him.
Having him, has inspired me even more, to work with
children through volunteer work at his school and
getting children together for various endeavors like
art, story telling, and fun in general.
I am on a journey. Turning 40 this year, has only
fueled my desire and urgency to do more. Doing a
bike-a-thon is the next thing I plan on
attempting.

Photo Credit: Monique Feil Photography