I've been asked this question many times throughout my life. Coming from a small city in India, I had little to no exposure to the broader world, and I certainly didn’t know what a future in mathematics looked like. I was always good at math, but not so great at other subjects. Naturally, I developed a sense of security with mathematics. Whenever my parents urged me to study, I would reach for my math textbooks and conveniently ignore every other subject.

During my school years, around eighth or ninth grade, I learned that Delhi University offered an undergraduate program in mathematics—and the best part? You didn’t have to study any other subject. From that day on, Delhi University became my goal. However, like many science students in India, I also prepared for engineering entrance exams. It was during that preparation that I realized I had no interest in studying physics or chemistry. That’s when I made the decision to pursue an undergraduate degree in mathematics.

Once I arrived at the university, I quickly realized that mathematics at this level was nothing like what we studied in school. It was much deeper—it was epsilon-delta definitions! But I adapted, and from there, I went on to pursue a master's degree and then a Ph.D. My journey has always been about taking one step at a time. When I began my undergraduate studies, I had no idea I would go on to complete a Ph.D. It just unfolded naturally, one decision leading to the next.

Throughout my years as a mathematician, I've often heard the stereotype that girls aren’t good at math. I’ve always wanted to prove those people wrong, and that’s been a strong motivation for me as well.

My aim as a mathematician is to change people's perspectives on this beautiful subject. If I can succeed in math, so can anyone else.