I began my journey practicing as a dentist in India, where my clinic was located in a suburban community. Yet, surrounding those suburbs were many people who could not afford even the most basic dental care. Growing up in a humble household, my parents taught me that education is the one thing that can lift you and allow you to lift others. With that belief deeply rooted in me, I made it my mission to serve those who needed care the most. I kept my clinic open on weekends and provided free or low-cost treatment to families who could not afford it. As the practice grew, so did my connection to the community.

After moving to the United States, I completed my Master of Public Health (MPH) through A.T. Still University's College of Graduate Health Studies (ATSU-CGHS). I am forever grateful to the Vice Chancellor of Academic Support, Don Altman, DDS, DHSc, EdD, MPH, MBA, MA, for giving me the opportunity to begin this chapter. During the program, I met my academic advisor, Marsha Presley, PhD, MPH, MA, who guided me through every step with wisdom and compassion. Her mentorship has remained one of the most meaningful influences in my academic life.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I worked as a Program Coordinator at a Title I school through a program led by the Arizona Governor’s Office of Faith and Community Initiatives. Students were returning to classrooms after months of disruption, and many were struggling academically. I collaborated with administrators and teachers, used data to track student progress, and helped develop strategies to support grade-level advancement. Despite the challenges, the program not only succeeded but also expanded to other schools in the valley.

I continued to serve with AmeriCorps and later joined Arizona State University's (ASU) Public Allies program. There, I worked in program development for an organization supporting individuals and families transitioning out of homelessness. What began as an eight-month role grew into a full-time Program Manager position, and today I proudly serve as a Program Director in a public health organization. My passion for supporting underserved communities, from dentistry to public health, has remained the thread connecting each chapter of my career.

During this time, I also pursued my Doctor of Education in Health Professions Education (EdD) at ATSU-CGHS. While in the dissertation phase, my father passed away. I had just completed the first dissertation course and returned home after his final rites, filled with uncertainty about continuing. On the first day of the second course, overwhelmed with grief and responsibility, I felt that I could not go on. Then I received an envelope in the mail, a handwritten note from Dr. Presley. Her words brought me strength when I needed it most. That single act of kindness changed everything. I pressed forward and completed my dissertation.

The EdD program did more than teach me how to design and conduct research; it prepared me to publish, contribute, and lead in the world of academic inquiry. I am grateful to professor Joshua Bernstein, PhD, CHES, whose excellence in teaching, empathy, and ability to bring out the best in his students left a lasting impact. My journey with ATSU has shaped not only my career but also the person I am today. The education I received opened doors I never imagined and inspired me to continue my path in public health and educational research. I am deeply thankful for this transformative experience and excited to continue making a difference in the communities I serve.