Finding Lehigh Wherever She Goes
Public Health Analyst, Katmai Government Services, contractor to CDC
B.A. Sociology and Cultural Anthropology, M.A. Sociology
Affinity or Alliance: Lehigh Asian Alumni Network (LAAN)
How did your Lehigh experience inform, help or influence your life now?
When I began at Lehigh, I had a plan and there was no deviating from it. I was to graduate with a degree in BioEngineering and go to medical school. I struggled with the academics in biology and engineering and realized that this plan may not work out. Dr. Judith Lasker in the sociology department introduced me to the field of Public Health and I realized that I could turn my passion for helping people into a career. If not for Dr. Lasker, I would not be where I am today. Lehigh showed me that there are thousands of ways to make an impact in the community.
What has been the most challenging thing you’ve faced since graduating?
After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with my Masters in Public Health, I moved to the city of Atlanta to start a position at the Georgia Department of Public Health. Moving away from my friends and family, to a state where I did not know anyone, was one of the most challenging things I have faced since graduating. Until 2013, I had not lived in a state other than Pennsylvania and was never further than one hour away from my family in Bethlehem. I was quickly connected with the Lehigh Club of Atlanta and got involved.
Lehigh showed me that there are thousands of ways to make an impact in the community.
What excites you right now?
Being a creator is one thing that has always excited me and continues to do so today. The possibilities are endless, whether it be creating new relationships, new recipes, or new projects. I am part of a few boards at Lehigh, mainly LAAN, LUAA, and the Lehigh Club of Philadelphia. Through these groups, I am constantly creating new connections for myself, but also creating connections for Lehigh alumni through various events.
What advice would you give current Lehigh students?
Take advantage of all that Lehigh has to offer. As a student, I did not try many activities outside of my comfort zone — and I regret that decision. Additionally, take the time to get to know other students. It is easy to stick to a group of people you feel comfortable with, but branch out and meet new people.
What keeps you connected to Lehigh?
Bethlehem became a home to my parents after emigrating from Sri Lanka in the 1970s. My mother was employed at Lehigh for 40 years before retiring in 2019. My father attended graduate school at Lehigh and my older sister also attended. The love for Lehigh runs deep in our family. It has provided many opportunities for my family and helped us become successful in our careers. Staying connected through alumni activities is my way of saying thank you to Lehigh for taking care of my family.