Biography

As an academic researcher and educator, I have dedicated my career to advancing health education, promoting inclusivity, and empowering underrepresented communities. My journey began in 2010 when I arrived in the United States from India, driven by a deep commitment to academic excellence and community impact. I earned dual Bachelor’s degrees in Forensic Science and Criminal Justice from the University of Central Oklahoma. My curiosity for understanding human behavior led me to pursue a Master of Arts in Forensic Psychology. During this time, I discovered a profound passion for teaching, which became the cornerstone of my professional and academic endeavors. My enthusiasm for education and public health inspired me to earn a Master of Science in Health Promotion Sciences in 2021, graduating with honors. As a Sexual Health Ambassador, I worked tirelessly to address the unique needs of international students, advocating for their access to resources related to sexual health rights, reproductive health, and sex positivity. These experiences solidified my mission to empower international students and bridge cultural gaps in public health education. I serve as Assistant Faculty in the School of Public and Population Health at Boise State University, where I am dedicated to fostering academic growth and championing health equity. My research addresses health disparities among minority populations, international college students, and children and adolescents. I am particularly passionate about investigating sexual health education, mental health outcomes, and the sociocultural challenges international students face in higher education. As an educator, I strive to create supportive learning environments, cultivate cross-cultural understanding, and empower students to become advocates for health equity. Through my teaching and research, I aim to build bridges between international and domestic student communities, ensuring all individuals feel valued, respected, and equipped to thrive. My work reflects my lifelong commitment to creating inclusive spaces and promoting well-being across diverse populations.