2

Where the mysteries of the cosmos meet the warmth of community, you’ll find Shikha Rani, ISA’s Treasurer, charting her unique course through both the celestial and social spheres at Michigan Tech. An aspiring astrophysicist by day and a vibrant community builder always, Shikha embodies the fascinating intersection of scientific precision and human connection.

Drawn to Michigan Tech’s distinguished Physics program, Shikha’s academic journey is propelled by a profound curiosity about the universe’s deepest mysteries. Her pursuit of a PhD in Physics, specializing in Astrophysics, represents more than just an academic goal—it’s a passionate quest to understand the fundamental forces that shape our cosmos.
But Shikha’s impact extends far beyond the physics laboratory. As ISA’s Treasurer, she brings the same precision and dedication she applies to studying celestial bodies to managing the organization’s financial health. Just as she tracks the movement of stars across the night sky, she meticulously monitors the resources that fuel ISA’s vibrant community activities.
Her journey with ISA began as a member, where she discovered a second home that matched the warmth and enthusiasm of her celebrations back in India. “ISA has always felt like a second family,” she reflects, describing how the organization transformed potentially lonely festivals into joyous communal celebrations. This experience of finding belonging thousands of miles from home deeply influenced her decision to join the E-Board.

The precision required in physics mirrors Shikha’s approach to community building. Just as every calculation in astrophysics must be exact, every member’s voice in ISA must be heard and valued. Her vision for the organization emphasizes creating a safe, welcoming space where cultural celebrations bridge geographical distances and ease the ache of homesickness.

As Treasurer, Shikha’s role embodies this perfect balance. During the day, she might be calculating the trajectories of celestial bodies, but come evening, you might find her keeping beat on the dance floor at ISA’s cultural nights. This duality—the analytical mind of a physicist combined with the warm heart of a community builder—makes her a unique asset to ISA’s leadership team.

Looking ahead, Shikha’s goals for ISA reflect the expansive nature of her academic pursuits. Just as the universe is constantly expanding, she envisions an ever-growing, increasingly inclusive community where diverse perspectives are celebrated and new connections are forged. Her approach to fostering collaboration and open communication draws parallel to the interconnected nature of cosmic phenomena—every part playing its crucial role in the greater whole.