(she/her)
Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering

“If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It.” - Walt Disney

Mehdia was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan where she also attended medical school. Her passion for interdisciplinary science motivated her to explore various kinds of research early on as a medical student. With the Sulchek lab, she is using microfluidics (measures cell stiffness and other physical parameters) to predict chemotherapy drug responses in leukemias while accounting for cancer heterogeneity and rare mutations. Given her medical background and experience with Health tech, Mehdia is a big proponent of translational research which can be bootstrapped to address clinical needs. Mehdia looks to baking, reading, writing, trying out new coffee brews, petting cats and hiking for fun. Mehdia is excited to be a part of the GT6000 community and looks forward to welcoming the new graduate students whilst positively contributing towards their transition into the Georgia Tech community.

(he/him)
Ph.D. in Robotics

“Sometimes life is like this dark tunnel. You can’t always see the light at the end of the tunnel, but if you just keep moving… you will come to a better place.” - Iroh

Mikhail is a Florida suburbanite who received a B.S in Mechanical Engineering and a minor in Computer Science from the University of Florida and is now a Ph.D. student in Robotics. His research focuses on improving robot perception. His hobbies include frequenting the gym, practicing the violin, and playing competitive video games with friends. His advice for incoming graduate students is to always take the time to enjoy the pleasures of life but to never forget the vision you had coming into grad school.

(she/her)
Ph.D. in Biology

“I may not have ended up where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be.” - Douglas Adams

Paige is a 5th year PhD student in Biology. Her research focuses on the genetics and collective behaviors of social insects, mainly fire ants and yellow jackets (Go Jackets!). Originally from Maryland, she went to Bucknell University in Pennsylvania for her undergraduate degree, where she double majored in Biology and Creative Writing. Outside of school, she continues her hobby of creative writing, and also has a love for reading, running, and baking. Her advice for incoming graduate students is to never neglect their physical and mental well-being for the sake of their research and studies; happy, healthy graduate students are the most successful.

(she/her)
Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering

“You are capable of more than you know. Choose a goal that seems right for you and strive to be the best, however hard the path.” - E. O. Wilson

Katy is a Ph.D. student in Civil and Environmental Engineering and her recent research explores how robotaxi services are reshaping travel behavior. She earned her B.S. and M.S. in Urban Planning and Engineering from Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea. Outside the lab, she recharges by playing sports, going to the gym, and grabbing coffee with friends. Her advice for incoming grad students is to take things one step at a time. Graduate school can be demanding, but by approaching each task and milestone with focus and dedication, you can make the most out of every opportunity. Embrace the process, savor the small victories along the way, and let each step propel you forward on your academic path.

(she/her)
M.S. in Cybersecurity

"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." – Confucius

Vibhuti Dahiya is a Master’s student in Cybersecurity at Georgia Tech. She holds an undergraduate degree in Computer Science with a specialization in Cybersecurity and previously worked as a cybersecurity and IT risk consultant. At Georgia Tech, she serves as Vice President of Mental Health & Well-Being in the Graduate Student Government and Cybersecurity Chair of PPGSA. Outside the classroom, Vibhuti enjoys hiking, playing badminton and volleyball, and art. Her advice for incoming graduate students: don’t be afraid to start over, no matter how challenging situations get. You are more resilient than you think.

(he/him)
Ph.D. in Transportation Engineering

“Self-worth isn't measured by who loves you, who stays, or who chooses you - it's measured by how deeply you choose yourself.” - Jillian Turecki

Christian is a fourth year Ph.D. student in transportation engineering. His research communicates affordances and health disparities which may result from advanced vehicle technology. Christian was born and raised in Austin, Texas and previously earned his bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering and Economics from The University of Texas at Austin. As a GT6000 group leader, he helps incoming students transition to graduate school life both academically and socially.

(she/her)
Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering

“I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” - Thomas Edison

Zoe is from Columbus, Mississippi and is currently a fourth year Ph.D. student in Electrical and Computer Engineering, where her research focuses on machine learning for image processing. Besides research responsibilities, Zoe also serves as the Vice President and mentor for the graduate student chapter of Society of Women Engineers. Zoe enjoys biking, painting, cooking, and watching television shows. Her advice for incoming graduate students is to celebrate the small victories and learn to be kind to yourself.

(he/him)
Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering

"See I got GPS on my phone." – Jon Bellion, Human | "But if you don't, look for 'the pencil.'" – Georgia Tech community

Hey everyone! I'm Anant, an Aerospace PhD student in my nth year (where n >> 1). I've had the honor of being with GT6000 in various roles since Fall 2017. For my thesis, I'm currently trying to comprehend the chemistry of combustion using computer simulations. When I'm not working or teaching, you can find me lost in a logic puzzle, trying to cook without having all the ingredients, exploring Atlanta and the great outdoors, or hacking together some kind of command line utility (possibly to engage in some recreational mathematics). For the past two summers, I lived in the mountains of Los Alamos, taking pictures of chipmunks, doing science-y things, and eating apricots off the tree in Oppenheimer's backyard! I'm excited to see Tech play some [American] football this Fall (and maybe we'll even win a few games :P). Looking forward to meeting y'all! :)

(she/her)
M.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” — Ralph Waldo Emerson

Himanshi is a master’s student in Electrical and Computer Engineering at Georgia Tech, with a focus on computer architecture and digital VLSI design. She earned her B.Tech from NIT Trichy, India, and spent three years at Micron as a DRAM Design Engineer. She loves reading, dancing, and stargazing, and is an avid fan of sci-fi and astronomy. Himanshi believes the start of grad school can be both overwhelming and exhilarating, and that GT6000 offers a valuable foundation to ease the transition. She encourages new students to explore Tech’s diverse community, build strong connections, and embrace every moment of the journey. GT6000 is where many lasting friendships and memories begin.

(she/her)
Ph.D. in Biology

“When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better, too.” - Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

Marina is a Georgia native, and received her B.S. in Biology from the University of St Andrews. She is a PhD candidate in Biology, studying the social lives of bacteria. Outside of work, she enjoys vintage clothing, native plants, and exploring around Atlanta. Her advice to incoming graduate students is to be willing to do things badly rather than not at all.

(he/him)
Ph.D. in Cybersecurity

“Embrace challenges; they’re stepping stones to success.” - Anonymous

Karan is a second-year CS PhD student in the School of Cybersecurity. Born and raised in India, he earned his B.S. in Information Technology at VIT, Vellore. Before coming to Georgia Tech, he was in the startup ecosystem for 3 years. He loves good movies and music and enjoys playing sports and interacting with people from diverse backgrounds. As a GT6000 group leader, he seeks to help incoming students transition to graduate school life both academically and socially.

(she/her)
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

“You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” - Christopher Robin

Anika grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana and received her B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University. She is currently a Ph.D. student in Mechanical Engineering where her research focuses on fault tolerant control for fixed-wing aircraft. She loves complicated boardgames, Kermit the Frog memes, and recently got involved in the Ballroom Dance Club at GT. Her advice for incoming graduate students is to find a fun thing outside of class and research. She is very excited to lead her 4th GT6000 group this fall.

(she/her)
Ph.D. in Ocean Sciences and Engineering

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams" - Eleanor Roosevelt

Hi y’all! My name is Luisa Lopera — born and raised in the mountains of Medellín, Colombia, but an absolute sea lover at heart. I hold a degree in Environmental Engineering and a Master’s degree in Physical Oceanography from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia. Currently, I’m a 5th-year PhD student in Ocean Sciences and Engineering, working on numerical modeling and small-scale processes in the ocean. When I’m not in the office, you’ll probably find me practicing sports, reading, enjoying the outdoors, or trying to make new friends. Let’s take advantage of GT6000 to build a strong and supportive community. Don’t forget to prioritize work-life balance — and remember, taking things one day at a time goes a long way.

(he/him)
Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering

"Sometimes the best way to solve your own problems, is to help someone else" - Uncle Iroh

Mostafa graduated with a B.S.E in Biomedical Engineering and Neuroscience from Tulane University, then received an MPhil in Engineering from the University of Cambridge, before starting at Emory/Georgia Tech in the MD/PhD program. He is interested in tissue engineering and neural organoids to develop more advanced models of neurodevelopment and disease. In his spare time, Mostafa enjoys rock climbing, playing soccer, cooking, and having coffee or tea. His advice for incoming graduate students is to stay curious—it’s the best way to keep learning and finding cool stuff you didn’t even know you were looking for.

(he/him)
Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering

“There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t.” - John Green

Tavish Pattanayak is currently pursuing his PhD in Aerospace Engineering at Georgia Tech. He completed his Masters in Aerospace Engineering from Georgia Tech and Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering from India in 2021 before working as a department manager with Flipkart in supply chain for a brief period. His research interests are aerodynamics, system design optimization, and human factors. Outside work, Tavish loves volunteering, hiking, reading novels, and playing badminton. He took GT6000 in Fall 2021 and is excited to give back by serving as a group leader. He encourages everyone joining GT to take this course and, more importantly, find their tribe to shine through grad school!

(he/they)
Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering

“It is difficult to bet on yourself, especially when it means turning against the tide, but it's always worth it”

Neel Puri is a Graduate Research Associate in the Aerospace Systems Design Laboratory at Georgia Tech. He has a bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Minnesota, and a Masters degree in Aerospace Engineering from Georgia Tech. He is currently in his 4th year of his Ph.D. and pursuing a thesis in Space Sustainability and Space Traffic Coordination.

(she/her)
Ph.D. in Biology

“Kindred spirits are not so scarce as I used to think. It’s splendid to find out there are so many of them in the world.” - Lucy Maud Montgomery

Carli is a Ph.D. student in Biology studying bacteriophages as an alternative treatment for antibiotic resistant bacterial infections. She grew up in Kentucky and earned her B.S. in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology from Yale University before coming to Georgia Tech. Outside of research, she enjoys knitting, crocheting, making music, and shamelessly watching trashy TV. Carli’s advice for incoming students is to focus on making connections with your peers and explore the resources available to you at Georgia Tech.

(she/her)
Ph.D. in Chemical and Biomedical Engineering

“One must imagine Sisyphus happy” - Albert Camus

I’m a Graduate Research Assistant in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at Georgia Tech, where my research focuses on yeast metabolism and its applications in biotechnology. I earned my undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering from SRM University in India. Outside the lab, I enjoy solving puzzles and reading, especially fiction and science writing. My advice for incoming graduate students is to build a strong support network early and not hesitate to seek help—grad school is challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone.

(she/her)
Ph.D. in Physics

"Life is either a great adventure or nothing." - Helen Keller

Khushi is currently a third-year Ph.D. student in physics. She grew up in Arkansas and completed her undergraduate degree at Georgia Tech before continuing onto graduate school. Her research in astrophysics focuses on studying accretion flows around black holes. Outside of academics, she enjoys reading, travelling, hiking, and generally being outside. Her biggest piece of advice for incoming students is to be open to new opportunities, in and out of the classroom. Grad school is a time of discovery!

(she/her)
Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering

“We must not wish for the disappearance of our troubles but for the grace to transform them.” ― Simone Weil

Phuong (pronounced “foo-ong”) is a fourth-year PhD student in Biomedical Engineering with a research focus on AI applications to neuroimaging. Originally from Hanoi, Vietnam, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Bioengineering from the University of Pennsylvania in 2021. Outside of academia, Phuong enjoys attending concerts, gardening, and exploring nature, particularly the serene walks among the trees in Atlanta. As a dedicated traveler, she is on a mission to visit all 50 US states by the time she turns 30. Phuong is excited to be a part of GT6000 and looks forward to meeting new people and building connections within the Georgia Tech community. Her advice to incoming graduate students is to embrace every adventure and have the courage to explore beyond the familiar.

(he/him)
Ph.D. in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

“Man cannot remake himself without suffering, for he is both the marble and the sculptor.” - Alexis Carrel

I was born in Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico. I obtained my bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Guanajuato that is a public state school. After graduating, I worked for 3 years as Metallurgy Engineer and 2 years as Process Technology Engineer in the polymeric materials area. I decided to study a PhD in Chemical Engineering to contribute with my knowledge to society and gain more knowledge about materials synthesis and design for specific applications. The focus of my research is on direct capture of carbon dioxide from air using porous metal organic frameworks. My advice is to try and participate in everything you would like to be a part of since we cannot relive the present and it will not come back once it has passed.

(she/her)
Ph.D. in Chemistry

“When you’re chasing a big goal, you’re supposed to feel good a third of the time, okay a third of the time, and crappy a third of the time…and if the ratio is roughly in that range, then you’re doing fine.” - Alexi Pappas

Eunice A. Lazau is from Buford, Georgia and currently is a third-year PhD student in the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry. She graduated with a BS in Biochemistry from Georgia Institute of Technology. After graduating, she worked as an ORISE fellow at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) analyzing cardiovascular biomarkers using mass spectrometry. Eunice is interested in using analytical chemistry to unveil intricate biological mechanisms and improve human health. When not in the lab, Eunice loves to hike in nature, try vegan restaurants, attempt new recipes, and explore cities. My advice is that everyone who is an expert was once a beginner!

(he/him)
Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

“The only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt

Jake, originally from Chicago, Illinois, is pursuing a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering studying energy systems. His current research focuses on optimizing distributors for air conditioning and refrigeration systems. He began studying at Georgia Tech in 2018, earning his B.S. and M.S. also in mechanical engineering. Away from school, Jake enjoys running, reading, baseball, and Formula 1. Last year he served as a group leader but will transition to a community engagement leader this term. His advice to incoming students is to find your people and spend time with friends! Class work will always be there, enjoy the community!