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Why did you choose Aeronautics and Astronautics?

I chose Aeronautics and Astronautics because space has always been my calling. The idea of venturing beyond Earth's limits, of contributing to the exploration of worlds unknown, fuels my passion every day. It is my dream to be the first Indian woman to land on the Moon, and that dream drives me forward no matter how impossible it may seem.

As an international student, pursuing this field has come with its share of challenges. In many ways, it's almost impossible to major in this area given the restrictions of my passport and visa status. Yet, I see those obstacles as opportunities—opportunities to break boundaries and redefine what’s possible for women in STEM and beyond. I’m not just chasing a dream; I’m paving the way for others who dare to follow.

I believe that by pushing through barriers, we inspire others to do the same. We show the world that no matter where we come from, no matter what challenges we face, we can reach for the stars—literally. The impossible is only impossible until we make it happen.

Best event or organization you’ve participated in within AAE?
AIAA conference

Best event or organization you’ve participated in outside of AAE?
Heart & Soul ( Purdue Musical Organization)

Why did you want to be an AAE Ambassador?

Becoming an astronaut and the first Indian woman to land on the moon is my ultimate dream. Despite the international barriers I face, I have not given up. Instead, I am using my passport and visa as tools to break barriers and soar higher. As an AAE Ambassador, I want to share my journey and inspire others to pursue their dreams, no matter the challenges.

My passion for aerospace engineering drives me to contribute to the Purdue community by engaging with prospective and current students, faculty, and industry professionals. I aim to highlight the incredible work being done at Purdue and showcase the diverse and dynamic field of aerospace engineering. Through this role, I hope to:

Develop Leadership Skills: Being an ambassador will allow me to enhance my leadership abilities by organizing events, leading tours, and representing the AAE department at various functions.

Improve Communication Skills: Interacting with a wide range of individuals will help me become a more effective communicator, a crucial skill in both my professional and personal life.

Expand My Network: Connecting with students, faculty, and industry leaders will broaden my professional network, opening up new opportunities for collaboration and career growth.

Inspire Others: I want to motivate other students, especially women and international students, to pursue their dreams in aerospace engineering and beyond.

Favorite place on campus?
WALC 

Favorite class you’ve taken thus far and why?

My favorite class so far has been AAE 251 : Introduction to Aerospace Design. This course introduced me to the world of aerospace engineering and provided a solid foundation in the key areas of the field. It was here that I discovered my passion for design, structures, and materials, helping me narrow down my focus within aerospace.

What is one piece of advice you would give to a potential AAE student?

"Embrace the turbulence." Just like an aircraft encounters turbulence but still soars, your journey in aerospace engineering will have moments of uncertainty, challenge, and struggle. Instead of resisting them, see these moments as opportunities for growth. Every bump in the road is shaping you into a more resilient engineer and leader. Aerospace isn’t just about mastering the science of flight—it’s about mastering the art of perseverance. If you can learn to navigate through turbulence with confidence, there's no limit to how high you can fly.

Who is someone you look up to in the Aero/Astro industry and why?
Someone I deeply look up to in the aerospace industry is Kellie Gerardi. She is not only a trailblazing woman astronaut but also a mother and a prominent influencer, proving that it's possible to balance a demanding career in aerospace with family life and personal passions. Her journey is inspiring because she breaks down stereotypes about what it means to be a woman in STEM, showing that you don’t have to choose between being an astronaut, a mom, or an influencer—you can be all three. I admire her ability to share her story with the world, making space exploration accessible and inspiring to people everywhere. Like Kellie, I want to pursue my dreams of becoming an astronaut while also sharing my journey, breaking barriers, and inspiring others along the way.

What motivates you to succeed?
My ambition to be the First Indian Woman to Land on Moon.

What is your ultimate career goal?
Astronaut 

What do you like to do when you’re not studying/in the lab or classroom?
Singing / Playing the guitar, Working out and Cooking.