Photo of Pritika Sharma
Doctoral Candidate, Department of Anthropology, Boston University
LA ’20
She/Her
Pritika Sharma has always believed that to understand what makes us human, it is essential to get to the core of the interpersonal and intersubjective relationships humans have with one another. Her research as a doctoral student at Boston University centers on family, marriage, and romance in South Asia. Sharma explores those themes by studying middle-class Indian weddings in New Delhi.
“My research interests stem directly from my relationships with family and friends and conversations with them about what it means to be human,” expressed Sharma. “It is that belief that has shaped my research interests through which I explore what it really means to be a person today who experiences romance, marriage, and family life.”
Sharma spoke fondly of her doctoral journey, describing her experience at Boston University as tremendously positive.
“I receive not only full support and guidance from my advisors and faculty mentors, but also the space and opportunities to pursue my interests and get involved in academic and professional endeavors that best suit those research interests,” described Sharma. “I am grateful to also be part of a strong academic cohort wherein people are hardworking, driven, brilliant, and supportive. Often Ph.D. programs can feel isolating; however, at [Boston], I feel that I am part of a strong community, so this path becomes all the more fulfilling.”
Sharma credits a long list of faculty and staff across Tulane’s campus with her introduction to anthropology. She also credits Newcomb Institute with preparing her to thrive in new environments and survive the unexpected challenges that come along the way. Sharma received several grants from the Institute, was a Newcomb Little, and served as Co-Producer for Hers, Theirs, Ours.
“Tulane and Newcomb prepared me so well that I am able to compete with other individuals in my program who have more degrees and experience than I do,” discussed Sharma. “In addition, I also learned teamwork, management skills, patience, interpersonal communication, and professionalism, all of which have been useful not just in my professional life but also beyond.”
Sharma remains open to all opportunities that stem from a doctorate. She enjoys teaching as part of her program and is open to becoming a professor in the future.
“As someone who is doing a doctorate also as a path to better self-understanding, I am quite positive that I will be involved in doing the things I am doing today even in ten years,” said Sharma. “In addition, I see myself being happy, healthy, and surrounded by people I love at home, wherever that may be. Family and friends are incredibly important to me, and they are the constant inspiration for my work. My future would be incomplete without them.”