Hometown: Washim, Maharashtra, India
Major: Entomology
Anticipated Date of Graduation: May 2025
Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
I always wanted an agricultural field related career and I feel lucky to be attending an institution with such a rich history in agriculture, with facilities and faculty to help with my journey as a scientist.
What is your favorite thing about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
East Campus is one of my favorite places in UNL, one can always enjoy pleasant campus and many student activities. Along with that, I enjoy how much support UNL gives its students for their personal and professional growth and discuss things they are passionate about.
What about diversity and inclusion is important to you when you think about your CASNR experience?
As an international student, making Lincoln my new home was no easy feat. I was lucky to have mentors, lab members, and friends who had experienced many of the difficulties I had getting started. I like to encourage new students who are now feeling those same things. People come from all over the earth to attend Nebraska carrying their own experiences. Sharing and listening to each other not only makes things easier, but I’ve been able to experience so many new things from others sharing as well. Thanks to CASNR for providing the platform and opportunity.
Exposure to cultural differences is a huge part of college. What activity have you recently participated in that is different from what you are used to in your culture? This could be something you read, listened to, watched, eaten or otherwise taken part in. What did you learn from this activity?
Once I attended a Multicultural night event at UNL, where I experienced a taste of food from different parts of the world, dance, music and attires of different countries. I met so many students from different part of the world and got to know about their culture.
What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?
Well, there are many, currently its “Insect identification and natural history” where I get to learn about different insects and as a part of course, have to submit my own insect collection. The interesting part is I have to catch different species of insect and for that we get to go camping where we set light trap for night and catch many bugs with so many fun activities.
What are your plans post-graduation?
Well, I think I will end up in a position working on sustainable agriculture development and keep working as a scientist to find ways for crop improvement.
What's life like outside of school?
While as a PhD student inside the lab can be filled with straightforward tasks, I like laughing and being creative with my friends outside of work. This can be drawing, Instagram stories, cooking, dancing or bonding over the latest Netflix show. Making new content and smiles feels important to me.
What scholarships, if any, have you received?
I have received the Chancellor’s fellowship for 2021 and the Myron H. Swenk Travel grant to attend 2022 Annual meeting of Entomological Society of America at Vancouver, Canada.