Hometown: Madison, AL

Living in: Birmingham, AL

Current employer and job: UAB School of Public Health, Program Manager in the Office of Research

Q: What is your favorite UAB memory?

So many to choose from! One of my favorite things about UAB is the diversity. I love learning about different cultures and on the flip side sharing my own. My best friends and I created a Bollywood fusion dance team called “Namaslay” as our last hoorah of senior year. Another person and I were the only two South Asians on the team. We performed a Bollywood medley for Diwali of 2016. As someone who has been dancing since she could walk, I can proudly say that it was the best performance of my life.

Q: How has UAB impacted your life?

In so many ways. As cliche as it sounds, I found myself at UAB. My interests, passions, forever friendships, a top-notch education and so much more.

Q: What made you choose your current profession?

My road to public health has been rather unconventional. I always knew that I wanted to help people, but at the time, I assumed the only way to do so was by becoming a physician. I started my journey at UAB as a Biomedical Engineering, premed student, but ended up in public health along the way. My sophomore year, I submitted a grant proposal to construct latrines in rural India and was selected as a Clinton Global Initiative Commitment Maker. After trying my hand at starting a non-profit, I realized I needed a solid foundation first. This led to my getting an MPH in Healthcare Organization and Policy and a newfound appreciation for grant writing. I still hope to one day start a non-profit, however, I’m learning a lot in the world of grant submissions and research funding through my current position in the SOPH Office of Research.

Q: What lessons has your professional life taught you?

The importance of transparency in a company, especially if you hope to foster trust and loyalty. You don’t always have to keep work and your personal life separate - it’s important to find a balance that works for you and your team.

Q: If you were given the opportunity to spend 48 hours with absolutely anyone (living or dead), who would you spend it with and what would you do?

Zumba with Obama

Q: What song (if any) are you listening to?

Butter by BTS

Q: If you could have a new talent, what would you want?

Sing

Q: Describe your favorite pair of shoes you own now.

Wedge booties. I’m a short human, and these are a nice pair of boots that don’t make it look obvious that I’m wearing heels.

Q: I really wish __________ hadn’t been invented.

Women’s clothes with fake pockets! The biggest scam and a primary reason for my trust issues.

Q: Describe your day in a six-word sentence.

“Let me check my calendar first.”

Q: What do you love most about what you get to do every day?

Being around my fantastic colleagues. After a year and a half living alone, I can’t tell you how much I missed being around people.

Q: What’s the closest thing to you that is green?

Green UAB Sustainability water bottle, blanket, and baby Blaze.