My Biography
What first sparked your interest in anthropology?
My interest in anthropology was inspired by my Sourashtra heritage, a community shaped by centuries of migration. Observing how movement influenced our traditions, livelihoods, and language sparked my curiosity about the intersection of culture and economy, which I examined through my research on the anthropological and economic dimensions of migration.
How do you utilize anthropological skills in your current position?
In my bibliometric research on migration, I use an anthropological lens to interpret migration’s effects on economic systems and culture. By combining ethnographic insights with quantitative methods, I aim to understand how people negotiate identity and belonging through movement. This interdisciplinary lens strengthens the relevance and depth of my findings.
Why did you become a AAA member and how has it enhanced your professional development?
I joined the AAA to engage with a community that values cultural understanding and diverse perspectives. Access to its publications and discussions has refined my theoretical grounding and introduced me to emerging research in migration studies, helping me situate my own work within broader anthropological conversations.
What tips do you have for the next generation of student anthropologists?
Stay curious about the everyday. Some of the most meaningful insights come from listening closely to people and questioning your assumptions. Read widely, blend methods, and let your own experiences inform your research. Anthropology is most powerful when it connects human stories to larger social and economic systems.
"I joined the AAA to engage with a community that values cultural understanding and diverse perspectives. Access to its publications and discussions has refined my theoretical grounding and introduced me to emerging research in migration studies, helping me situate my own work within broader anthropological conversations."