What made you want to get an advanced degree?

Pursuing a graduate degree was a culmination of my experiences in the aerospace field, especially as a recovery subsystem engineer at Team Antariksh. Working on complex projects like aerodynamic decelerators sparked my interest in the intricacies of atmospheric entry and high-speed aerodynamics. Collaborating with the Indian Institute of Science on hypersonic vehicles broadened my understanding and led me to explore more in this field of aerodynamics. I have always been intrigued by the application of optimization in aerodynamic designs. And the best place to test such multidisciplinary concepts is in grad school.

Why study at Illinois

I chose to study at Illinois for its renowned research facilities and esteemed faculty in aerodynamics, which aligns perfectly with my aspiration to specialize in fluid-structure interaction and contribute to groundbreaking aerospace innovations.

But the choice was also about the area’s vibrant community and rich engineering history. Illinois, especially Urbana-Champaign, offers a unique blend of academic focus and cultural diversity, creating an enriching environment for personal and professional growth. The region's connection to pioneering aerospace achievements and the presence of cutting-edge research institutions make it an ideal place for someone passionate about aerospace engineering. This setting provides a balanced life where I can pursue academic excellence while being part of a lively and diverse community.

What helped you choose your specialty?

My interest in specializing in aerospace engineering really took shape while I was working on aerodynamic decelerators for rocket recovery. The real spark came from NASA’s 7 Minutes of Terror video series about the Mars Curiosity rover’s dramatic landing sequence. The complexities of high-speed atmospheric entry fascinated me, and working on optimizing hypersonic vehicles at the Indian Institute of Science solidified my decision.

At Illinois, I immersed myself in the world of hypersonic aerothermodynamics and computational mechanics, which paved my path toward specializing in computational fluid dynamics and using the finite element method to analyze and solve CFD problems. Excited by the challenges, I transitioned to a thesis program under Prof. Fabien Evrard, tackling a project that perfectly blends aerodynamics with structural analysis. This fusion of disciplines under such expert guidance is turning my aspirations into tangible innovations in aerospace engineering.

Were you involved in any special projects during your graduate program? 

I was selected for the NASA L’SPACE Academy, where I collaborated on a proposal for a Mars re-entry vehicle design. This project allowed me to apply my aerodynamics expertise in a highly innovative context. Additionally, alongside my colleague Dave Sun, we developed a proposal for an in-space manufacturing project focusing on UV rigidizable reinforcement for deployable hypersonic decelerators, further expanding my experience in aerospace engineering solutions.

Tell me about the research for your thesis.

Under the guidance of Prof. Fabien Evrard, I am exploring the innovative field of peridynamics, a non-local extension of classical continuum mechanics used to model the behavior of materials without spatial derivatives. This method is particularly effective in simulating crack propagation and material failures, which are challenging to model accurately with traditional methods. The specific interest of the project is to model and analyze the behavior of solid composites in the presence of a defined flow. Prof. Fabien’s expertise has been invaluable, especially as this area is unique to both me and the university. We will apply this peridynamics model to study material ablation of composite surfaces at hypersonic speeds, crucial for enhancing aerospace materials' safety and performance under extreme conditions. Prof. Fabien's guidance is instrumental in navigating this complex research area, ensuring that my work is not only academically fulfilling but also practically relevant in advancing aerospace technology.

What were some of  the unusual challenges you experienced along the way?

As a first-generation college student venturing into the specialized field of aerospace engineering, I faced significant obstacles. Adapting to a new educational system, especially with limited resources tailored for someone from my background demanded proactive networking with experienced professionals and extensive use of university resources to bridge knowledge gaps. Additionally, as an international student, securing employment in the US aerospace sector was particularly daunting due to strict employment restrictions, making opportunities rare and pushing me to consider related fields in engineering.

Managing the intense demands of a non-thesis MS program while searching for jobs required meticulous time management and substantial support from career services, professors, and peers. The process of securing a thesis advisor also posed a major hurdle, and I am deeply thankful to Prof. Fabien for the opportunity to complete my thesis.

Being assigned as a graduate ambassador for aerospace engineering has given me a platform to share these experiences with students and the department. This role enabled me to guide and inspire students to fearlessly pursue new fields, such as a graduate degree in aerospace engineering.

 What do you do when you're not studying?

I'm passionate about watching movies, traveling, camping, and playing basketball. These activities have significantly contributed to my personal growth and effectiveness in my MS program. Watching movies provides escapism, stimulating creativity and relaxation. Traveling and camping have honed my planning and adaptability skills, which are invaluable in research environments. Playing basketball has not only kept me physically active but also fostered teamwork and strategic thinking. All of these hobbies have positively influenced my approach to my master's program and research work, allowing me to unwind, stay healthy, and foster skills that are beneficial in both team projects and independent research endeavors.

What are your career goals?

Progressing within an aerospace company to eventually become the chief/lead engineer of a project is a key career goal for me. I aim to lead in the design and implementation of innovative aircraft configurations, influencing the development and success of new aerospace technologies.

Like Prof. Bodony’s contribution to Marvel’s Black Panther movie, I am passionate about applying my aerodynamics and fluid mechanics expertise as a science advisor in the movie industry, helping create develop visually stunning artwork and sometimes scientifically accurate representations in movies. This dual focus will allow me to make significant contributions to both aerospace engineering and public understanding of science through entertainment.

What's on your bucket list for the next five years?

I have several goals that bridge my personal interests with my professional ambitions. Firstly, attending a rocket launch in the US would be a thrilling experience that aligns closely with my aerospace career goals. I'm also eager to witness the Aurora Borealis, merging my fascination with natural wonders and the physics that explain such phenomena. Furthermore, I aim to pilot both an aircraft and a jetpack (yes, a jetpack xD), which would not only fulfill my dreams but also enhance my understanding of flight dynamics. These experiences would enrich my professional capabilities and personal growth in meaningful ways.

 What advice would you give someone considering getting an advanced degree?

Pursuing an advanced degree is highly rewarding, not only for the specialized knowledge you gain but also for the comprehensive skill set you develop, which is invaluable in any professional setting. Be it a thesis or a non-thesis program, it enhances your ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and manage challenging projects. It also expands your professional network, connecting you to experts and mentors in your field. These experiences shape you for the real world, preparing you to take on leadership roles and contribute significantly to your field of expertise. For anyone considering it, I highly recommend diving into this enriching journey that fosters both personal growth and professional advancement.

What advice would you give younger self?

If I were to give advice to myself at the start of my graduate degree, it would be to remain persistent and never lose hope, no matter the challenges. The journey through graduate studies can be demanding, with setbacks and hurdles along the way. It's important to stay focused on your goals, maintain resilience, and continually push forward, knowing that every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. This mindset not only helps in overcoming immediate difficulties but also in building a strong foundation for a successful career.