Graduate Student Cross the Finish Line and K-State Alumni Association International Scholarship Recipient, Sheetal Choudhary from India, Shares Her Journey Pursuing a Ph.D. in Prevention Science at Kansas State University

Hello! My name is Sheetal Choudhary, and I am originally from India. I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Prevention Science at Kansas State University, focusing on understanding and preventing emotional teen dating violence perpetration among adolescent parents.

My path has always been guided by a deep commitment to teaching, mentoring, and using research to improve lives. Before beginning my doctoral studies, I completed a B.S. in Home Science and an M.S. in Human Development & Family Studies in India. I also earned a Post-Graduate Diploma in Guidance and Counselling, which helped me realize how much I wanted to combine research and practice to create healthier communities.

Coming to the U.S. for graduate education was not an easy decision. It meant leaving behind my comfort zone, but I knew this journey would allow me to grow personally and academically. Today, I am grateful to be teaching undergraduate students, conducting research on violence prevention, and contributing to statewide policy-relevant projects in Kansas.

Graduate Student Cross the Finish Line Scholarship Details

I received the Graduate Student Cross the Finish Line Scholarship in August 2025, which supported me with $2,000 to help cover tuition and health insurance as I progressed toward completing my Ph.D.

In addition, I was also honored with the K-State Alumni Association International Scholarship in April 2024, which recognized my contributions as an international graduate student.

These scholarships lightened the financial burden and gave me the freedom to focus more fully on my research and teaching.

Educational Background

My academic journey began in India, where I completed:

• B.S. in Home Science, Kurukshetra University (79.73%)
• Post-Graduate Diploma in Guidance & Counselling, Panjab University (64%)
• M.S. in Human Development & Family Studies, Kurukshetra University (CGPA 8.52/10)

At Kansas State University, I have maintained a 3.71/4.0 GPA in my Ph.D. program. Along the way, I have gained strong skills in both quantitative methods (SPSS, SAS, Mplus) and qualitative research (focus groups, thematic analysis).

How I Prepared to Apply to the Graduate Student Cross the Finish Line Scholarship and Kansas State University

When I was preparing to apply, I researched institutions that aligned with my interests in family science and prevention. Kansas State stood out because of its interdisciplinary program, strong mentorship, and opportunities to connect research with practice.

I also took the IELTS exam, practicing with sample tests and focusing on building my confidence in academic writing and speaking.

For scholarships, I prepared by clearly showing how my academic performance, teaching experience, and research aligned with the mission of the awards. I also explained how the funding would directly support me in completing my program.

My Experience at Kansas State

Kansas State has been an incredibly supportive academic environment. I have had the opportunity to serve as the Instructor of Record for undergraduate courses such as HDFS 301: Interpersonal Skills for Helping Professionals and HDFS 110: Introduction to Human Development. My student evaluations averaged 4.1/5.0, which I see as a reflection of my commitment to inclusive and engaging teaching.

As a Graduate Research Assistant, I’ve coordinated statewide focus groups and interviews on child care subsidy access, engaging with over 220 participants across Kansas. These experiences helped me translate classroom knowledge into real-world impact.

What Made My Application Stand Out

I believe my application stood out because it combined a strong academic record, practical teaching experience, international perspective, and community-driven research focus. My passion for linking research to real-world solutions came through in my personal statement and in the way I connected my goals to the mission of the scholarship.

What I Would Have Done Differently

If I could go back, I would apply for more external scholarships earlier in my program and explore fellowship opportunities to expand my support network.

Advice for Future Applicants

My biggest advice is: start early and stay organized. Prepare your documents ahead of time, practice for your English proficiency tests with dedication, and don’t be afraid to reach out to mentors for guidance. Most importantly, write your own story authentically—let your application reflect who you truly are and the impact you want to make.