Sadie Green, MA in Asian Studies, 2015

While at UH, how did you engage with South Asia? (examples: coursework, thesis, study in South Asia, working for the Center, working closely with a CSAS faculty member)

During my time at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa (UHM), I engaged with South Asia in various ways. Firstly, I pursued South Asia and Nepal-specific coursework consistently throughout my program, delving into the region’s historical, cultural, social, and political dynamics. I also worked closely with CSAS faculty who actively supported me as a student of South Asia. Beyond the classroom, I immersed myself in extracurricular activities dedicated to promoting South Asian culture, including participating in dance and theater performances. Additionally, I was actively participating in South-Asian-focused research and events with several academic, cultural, and not-for-profit organizations, including the East-West Center (EWC), the Society of Nepalese in Hawaii (SNEHA), and Friends For Nepal (formally FoVIN). I also contributed to various South Asia-focused academic conferences during my time at UHM, both locally and internationally, enriching my understanding and involvement in the region’s scholarly discourse and cultural exchange. The culmination of my engagement was the production of my thesis titled “Publics of Dress: Rethinking the Political Economy of Women’s Fashion in an Urbanizing Neighborhood in Nepal.” This project involved conducting ethnographic research in Nepal, which I undertook during the summer of 2014 while concurrently living with my extended Nepali family and participating in a Nepali language program in Kathmandu. My academic journey at UHM, particularly within the CSAS, offered ample opportunities to engage with South Asia and fostered a profound understanding and appreciation of the region’s complexities, with a special emphasis on Nepal.

What do you do now?

Since graduating in 2015, I have been employed as a nonprofit consultant, primarily collaborating with the US-based nonprofit organization Himalayan Children’s Charities. Additionally, I serve on the board of another 501c3 organization, Friends For Nepal, which conducts work in Nepal. I also volunteer with various Nepal-based organizations and initiatives. Furthermore, I am currently involved in launching the next generation of our family business, Nepal Outdoor Center, dedicated to female-led, regenerative travel and tourism in the region.

What are some of your fond memories of engaging with South Asia at UH? For example, South Asia related coursework, events, programming, Spring Symposia, scholarships, fellow students and professors?

I fondly recall my engagement with South Asia at UH, particularly through coursework, events, and the relationships I built during that time. My classes were memorable experiences. I found my professors and coursework to be incredibly engaging, and the small classroom environments facilitated intimate discussions and meaningful interactions. I was fortunate to receive mentorship from my wonderful advisor and benefit from the exceptional instruction provided by each professor and thesis committee member I had. Their guidance deepened my knowledge and inspired me to pursue academic excellence. I am also immensely grateful for the scholarships I received during my time at UH, which made my academic pursuits financially feasible and affirmed my commitment to Nepal. Participating in a theatrical production through CSAS and performing with local dance troupes allowed me to creatively engage with South Asian culture. Additionally, attending events like the Spring Symposium and a conference in London broadened my perspective and enriched my academic experience. Overall, my time at UH provided invaluable opportunities to immerse myself in the study of South Asia, cultivate meaningful relationships, and contribute to vibrant communities. These experiences have profoundly influenced my personal and professional journey, shaping my understanding of South Asia and inspiring continued engagement with the region in my current endeavors.

Which faculty members did you work closely with, and how were they influential for you?

Dr. Anna Stirr served as my advisor and provided invaluable mentorship throughout my academic journey, even customizing specialized courses for me, for which I am deeply grateful. Additionally, I had the privilege of taking classes from Dr. Cathryn Clayton, Dr. Miriam Sharma, Dr. Barbara Andaya, and Dr. Hōkūlani Aikau, all of whom I greatly enjoyed working with. I was fortunate to have exceptional professors throughout my program, and the mentorship I received from my thesis committee members, including Dr. L. Ayu Saraswati, was instrumental in my academic growth. Dr. Monisha Das Gupta also played a significant role in my decision to attend UH and study South Asia at the CSAS, providing valuable guidance and support during my time at the university.

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Are you an alumni from the Center for South Asian Studies and would like to featured? Please contact: csas@hawaii.edu