Gargi chose UK due to professors' research interests and their openness in talking with her as a prospective student. "They were great ... I always felt like they really wanted me to come," she said. When she was offered a Teaching Assistant position, she knew that she would gain valuable teaching experience for a career in academia.

 

Presenting at academic conferences this past year has been a highlight for Gargi. She also passed her comprehensive exams in Spring 2019, a milestone in her journey. In addition to securing UK funding for conference travel, Gargi received a fellowship that has allowed her to dedicate two semesters solely to research. She has also enjoyed being a part of the UK community, volunteering at the Feast for Equality with the Office of LGBTQ* Resources. 

 

Before attending UK, Gargi did her undergraduate work at the University of Richmond, double majoring in Political Science and International Studies. She initially started as a Physics major. "Back home, I had to choose what I wanted to do after 10th grade, and I chose the science stream. I liked the idea of going to undergrad (in the U.S.) and being able to explore for a bit before finalizing a topic," she said.