I am a Mechanical Engineer by training with an interest in Solid Mechanics, Applied Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence. I graduated from the Pennsylvania State University with dual degrees: a Ph.D. in Engineering Science and Mechanics and a Master of Arts in Mathematics. Prior to attending Penn State, I earned a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. I also hold Master of Technology and Bachelor of Technology degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, India.

Over the course of my graduate studies and current work, I have acquired a measure of understanding in Pure and Applied Mathematics, Machine Leaning, Deep Learning, Solid Mechanics, Computational Mechanics, Heat Transfer, Quantum Mechanics, Non-Linear Control System and Uncertainty Quantification. I also have many years of experience with Computer Programming and FEA simulation software including MATLAB, ANSYS, COMSOL Multiphysics, SolidWorks, etc.

As teachers, we have an opportunity to influence the mindset and the thinking of the next generation, which will play a crucial role in determining the success of our whole society. While it is important to teach useful skills to our students, it is also very important that in our teaching, we cultivate a mindset that encourages engagement, creativity and a commitment to excellent performance; we do this by recognizing and rewarding these traits.

As a Teaching Assistant in the Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics at Penn State University for over 5 years, I have experienced first-hand the impact of challenging and inspiring students. Based on my educational experience which includes more than 100 undergraduate and graduate level courses, I have come to realize how important it is for the students to be motivated to deeply understand the content of their course material.

How shall I motivate my students; two things are necessary:
1. Revealing the relevance of course material for our lives
2. Understanding the role of a course in both the short-term and long-term goals of the student