I chose to attend the Asian University for Women to pursue my interest in the economic development of South Asia. I completed my B.A. in Economics and Development Studies with distinction in May 2015, which laid the groundwork for my understanding of this region’s complex challenges. But my time at AUW was about much more than academics—it was about seeing firsthand how education can transform lives. Being surrounded by women from diverse backgrounds, each with their own struggles and hopes, opened my eyes to the power of education in breaking cycles of poverty and violence. The mission of AUW, to empower women to become change-makers in their communities, deeply resonated with me and continues to shape my work today. It’s why I’m committed to using my research and teaching to advocate for women’s rights and social justice. The women I met there, and the stories we shared, are what keep me grounded in my goal to push for policies that can help create a safer, more just world for women across South Asia. 

​

          After that I earned my M.A. in Economics from Eastern Illinois University in 2018,  

where my work focused on the political and economic issues affecting South Asian countries. I quickly realized that

understanding these challenges requires more than just economic training; I needed to dive deeper into the political

landscape as well. This led me to pursue a PhD in Political Science at the University of Kentucky, where I could

combine my background in economics with political theories.

 

                                                                One of my main research interests is violence against women, particularly

                                                       in illiberal countries like Bangladesh. In these contexts, political power and

                                                       cultural norms often normalize such violence, making it crucial to address these issues

                                                       head-on. Throughout my life, I’ve encountered numerous South Asian women who have faced various forms of VAW,                                                             reinforcing my belief that true empowerment comes from education and freedom from violence.                                                                                     

                                                                 In my dissertation, I explore how identity politics—a deep-rooted issue in South Asia— shapes attitudes toward                                                             violence against women (VAW). By understanding these attitudes, I believe we can push for better policies and create a                                                           safer environment for women. I am deeply committed to using my research and  teaching to advocate for comprehensive                                                         policies that support women’s rights and social justice.​ 

                                                                 My main scholarly interest lies in exploring both foreign and domestic policies that can enhance democratic                                                                    conditions in various countries and in understanding the institutional and systemic challenges that need to be addressed                                                          to improve democracy and human rights.

​

  Gardening has become my little sanctuary, a place where I can reflect and grow. I love spending my summers in the garden, growing a mix of South   

    Asian vegetables like eggplants, okra, and bitter gourds, along with different varieties of spinach.

I often find inspiration in the works of 20th Century Poet Kazi Nazrul, whose poetry speaks to me on so many levels—celebrating resilience and

passion in the face of struggle.

​

 

​

​