About me
I am an educator, researcher, and lifelong learner focused on expanding access to Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence education. My Ph.D. in Computer Science from Mississippi State University focused on enhancing AI literacy among middle school students through hands-on tools, such as board games and playing cards.
My work connects pedagogy, human–computer interaction, and K–12 STEM education, reflecting my belief that students learn best through active, collaborative, and playful exploration.
Professional Philosophy & Approach
I view learning as a creative and iterative process. My goal is to design experiences that engage, challenge, and inspire, not just deliver knowledge.
I emphasize student-centered methods, adapting lessons to individual needs and learning styles.
I prioritize equity and inclusion so underprivileged and underrepresented students can engage meaningfully with CS and AI.
I believe educators should be supported and upskilled. I invest in curriculum development and teacher training to scale innovation beyond individual classrooms.
Teaching, Mentoring & Instruction
I have held a range of instructional roles over time:
As a graduate teaching assistant and lecturer at Mississippi State University, I have taught courses in algorithms, software engineering, AI, robotics, and cybersecurity. I have covered many more subjects.
I tutored student-athletes in computer science and mathematics using interactive, strategy-based techniques to build their confidence and skills.
I coordinated tutoring programs and workshops to ensure learners received individualized support.
I guided students through the college application process, including personal statements and interview preparation.
These experiences strengthened my ability to shift between curriculum planning and daily teaching adjustments.
Research & Innovation
My research work has multiple dimensions:
Dissertation Research: I developed and tested game-based interventions using tangible tools to teach AI and computational thinking to middle school students.
Graduate Research: I explored ways to integrate AI pedagogy into K–12 curricula and trained teachers in these new approaches.
Prior Research Topics:
Social and therapeutic robotics
Multi-agent systems, path planning, and patrolling algorithms
Parallel/distributed computing, graph algorithms, and abstraction techniques
I co-facilitated and mentored in outreach programs, such as cyber camps and summer institutes, bringing research into real-world classrooms.
Education & Credentials
I earned my Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Computer Science from Mississippi State University, USA, in 2025, where I focused my dissertation on enhancing artificial intelligence literacy among middle school students through the use of tangible objects.
I completed my Bachelor of Technology, Computer Science & Engineering from West Bengal University of Technology, India, in 2014.
I hold certifications in Responsible Conduct of Research and Human Subjects Research. I have additional certifications in compliance and ethics.
Honors, Service & Leadership
I have received teaching and scholarship honors, including the "Top Dawg" tutor award.
I won third place in the Graduate Student Elevator Pitch competition at the ACM/IEEE International Conference on Human–Robot Interaction.
Awarded full scholarships to attend CRA-Women Grad Cohort Workshops, PRIDE SUMMIT, and similar programs.
Active in leadership and service roles:
Volunteer tutor, co-facilitator, and organizer in CS outreach camps
Social media officer, secretary, and treasurer in ACM-W and Women in Cybersecurity.
Served as a TrevorChat/TrevorText crisis counselor (2023–24), supporting youth beyond academia.
Aspirations & Outlook
I aim to transform CS and AI education for young learners by creating accessible, inclusive, and inspiring environments.
I work to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring pedagogical innovations have a lasting impact in the classroom.
I hope to help cultivate a generation of learners who are literate in technology and confident, creative thinkers ready to shape their futures.