After completing my Class 12 exams from a Hindi-medium school in the Uttar Pradesh board, I became the pride of my family by achieving the highest marks in the area. My success led my family to see a future for me in engineering, though sending me away for studies was a tough decision. In an extraordinary act of support, my uncle and aunt moved to Delhi with me so I could pursue a BTech in Aeronautical Engineering at a private college. This was a significant sacrifice for them, and while the financial strain was considerable, it only strengthened my resolve to succeed.
In 2013, I decided to take the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE), recognizing it as the gateway to higher education in India's top institutions. With the help of friends and coaching materials, I cleared the GATE exam and secured admission to Punjab Engineering College (PEC) for a master’s in engineering. This opportunity opened up new horizons for me, expanding my understanding of problem-solving and nurturing my passion for research. It was at PEC that I discovered research was my true calling.
Life at IIT Madras: A New Beginning
After completing my master’s, I was offered a chance to work on a DRDO project at IIT Madras in 2017. This exposure to cutting-edge research allowed me to interact with numerous scientists and explore various DRDO labs, refining my approach to research.
Moving to Chennai came with its own set of challenges. Adapting to the intense heat and humidity after coming from Uttar Pradesh was tough, and the cultural differences, particularly language barriers, were overwhelming at first. But over time, I embraced the diversity of the IIT Madras community, which fostered a deep sense of belonging and offered countless opportunities for growth.
In January 2018, I got married. My husband, who was also pursuing his master’s at IIT Madras, joined me on this journey. He has since launched a startup in the energy storage sector alongside his studies.
The PhD Journey: Balancing Life and Research
In 2021, I officially joined IIT Madras as a PhD student, working under the guidance of Prof. Tiju Thomas from Metallurgical and Materials Engineering and Prof. Satyanarayanan Chakravarthy from Aerospace Engineering. My research focuses on solid propellant rocket fuel—a challenging yet thrilling field.
Balancing academic and personal life has been both rewarding and demanding. Shortly after starting my PhD, I realized how crucial it was to pass the comprehensive exams to continue in the program. At the time, I was pregnant, so I aimed to complete my coursework as quickly as possible. In just six months, I finished everything with a CGPA of 9.23 and passed the comprehensive exam. Two days later, in February 2023, my daughter was born.
Even during maternity leave, my drive to stay active remained strong. I joined various clubs, became the head of Hindi Mitra Mandal, and took on an executive role in the Research Affairs Council, organizing workshops and events. I also participated in entrepreneurship training, joined the G20 program as a cyber volunteer, and was honored by the Home Minister—all while carrying my newborn daughter along. This period pushed me to challenge limits and embrace new roles.
Leadership and Breaking Barriers
In 2024, I made the bold decision to run for the position of Research Affairs Secretary (RAS) at IIT Madras. This choice raised many eyebrows—could a mother with a toddler lead such a significant student body on campus? With the unwavering support of my husband, parents, and brothers, I campaigned to challenge the stigma surrounding working mothers. Winning the election was a testament to my determination, and now I oversee key initiatives at IIT Madras, including the Placement & Internship Cell, Skill Development Cell, and Outbound Training (OBT) Program. Contributing to the institute's growth and student welfare brings an indescribable sense of fulfillment.
Future Plans: Beyond the Lab
Looking ahead, my dreams are twofold—excelling in rocket science research and giving back to my community. After completing my PhD, I aspire to contribute to aerospace either as a researcher or academician. I also have entrepreneurial aspirations, aiming to use my knowledge to create jobs and opportunities for the younger generation.
Additionally, I am passionate about addressing the educational challenges that persist in my village. I plan to establish a career consultancy focused on empowering rural girls, helping them overcome the limitations I once faced. With the support of my mentors, family, and the IIT Madras community, I am confident in taking on the challenges that lie ahead.
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