"My name is Nikash Harapanahalli, and I am an Accelerated Masters in Asian Studies student from Dallas, TX. I am blessed to have this unique opportunity to conclude my undergraduate career while concomitantly starting my graduate career. I have interned at various inter religious advocacy organizations, South Asia-focused human rights centers, and just finished a two-month US State Department Critical Language Scholarship in Lucknow, India. During my undergraduate career, I served as Georgetown University's South Asian Society President where I was instrumental in realizing the first-ever undergraduate South Asian Studies academic program.

I am passionate about inter-religious and cultural diplomacy, and my focus on South Asia is integral to my dream of becoming a career bridge-builder. I am passionate about creating intercultural and inter religious mutual understanding in South Asia. My goal is to promote conflict transformation between India and Pakistan, with a focus on utilizing religious actors to facilitate peace processes. As an Accelerated Masters student, I have had the opportunity to study South Asia in conversation with Southwest Asia. During my time in MASIA I hope to develop a robust transnational and cross-regional analysis of South Asia and Southeast Asia. I want to better understand how religious actors shape the development and future potential of societies across South and Southeast Asia. "

Concentration: South Asia

Hometown: Dallas, Texas, USA

Academic Background: B.SFS in Regional & Comparative Studies in South Asia and Middle East, Georgetown University