Why did you choose graduate school at IUPUI?
Choosing the Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM) for my PhD was an organic choice, primarily due to its distinguished reputation in pioneering research, coupled with its esteemed faculty and cutting-edge facilities. IUSM’s comprehensive umbrella program for incoming biomedical PhD students allowed me to explore diverse research subdisciplines, empowering me to select a lab best suited for my career development and research journey. The proactive engagement from school's administrative staff, providing crucial information before my decision-making process, solidified my confidence in choosing this academic endeavor at IUSM. The collaborative ethos here fosters interdisciplinary collaborations, heightening the potential for groundbreaking discoveries. Moreover, the school's strong ties to prominent healthcare and pharmaceutical industries offer unparalleled hands-on experiences and invaluable industry connections. The combination of this tailored approach to student exploration and the outstanding support system solidified my decision to embark on this transformative academic journey at IUSM.
What has been your favorite academic accomplishment since you’ve been here?
One standout academic milestone since I started my PhD has been attending The Obesity Society conference to present my research and engaging with pioneering figures in the field of neuroendocrinology. This experience broadened my horizons within the field and enabled insightful conversations with luminaries, marking a pivotal moment in my academic journey. Additionally, having started my research during the pandemic, and passing my qualifying exam and transitioning to an official PhD candidate amidst the post-pandemic challenges, holds a special place for my top academic achievements. I am now working on my first author research article and a review article. This is an exhilarating journey towards sharing new scientific insights with the wider academic community.
What do you enjoy most about life in Indianapolis?
In my downtime, I love walking along the Canal and the Indianapolis Cultural Trail and exploring the city's art scene. The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields is a peaceful haven with stunning art and gardens. The displays during Halloween and Christmas are especially magnificent. Eagle Creek Park is my go-to for outdoor relaxation with its scenic trails and lake activities. The Indianapolis Zoo and Children's Museum are also fantastic spots that I enjoy going to during the summer months. And when it's time to unwind, places like Downtown, Fountain Square, and Broad Ripple neighborhoods offer diverse dining and vibrant atmospheres for catching up with friends after a week of studies.
Please provide some details about your work/research as a graduate student and/or any activities you are involved in.
As a graduate student I delve into researching the brain's control over energy balance, focusing on targeted therapies for obesity and diabetes. My role involves investigating neural pathways in the hypothalamus that promotes energy expenditure, especially under changing feeding conditions. Alongside my research, I actively engage with my peers as part of the departmental student's social committee, organizing stress-busting events like our recent ice-cream social, which was a hit. I also dedicate my time to volunteer at the Girls’ STEM Institute at IUPUI, inspiring underrepresented girls in STEM education and at Longfellow Middle School's after-school STEM Club, to help inspire young minds and foster curiosity in STEM fields, which to me feels immensely fulfilling, aligning with my commitment to equitable education and empowerment beyond the scope of medicine. Additionally, I contribute monthly to Gleaners Food Bank, ensuring nutritious food reaches those facing hunger. I also try to dedicate my time working towards the well-being of the people in my homeland of India. I volunteer online with 2 non-profits: Pather Dishary and Swayam in India, advocating, supporting and helping arrangement of campaigns to provide education and medical aid to marginalized communities and survivors of domestic abuse. These diverse involvements resonate deeply with my passion for community empowerment and equitable education.