In the Four With a ‘Dore series, we’re getting to know VU students four questions at a time. Meet Aaditi Lele, a climate studies and political science major with a minor in South Asian language and culture. The Cupertino, CA native from the Class of 2024 recently participated in VU’s annual TedXVanderbiltUniversity event.
Q: What was your TedXVanderbiltUniversity topic?
A: My topic stemmed from my personal experience of growing up in India and moving to the U.S. It was about the way that compliments and comments we give immigrant people in our lives can often reflect the biases and assumptions ingrained in us as a society. For example, we affirm things like accents going away or fitting in more as models of success. That can reflect the assumption that we need to conform to be successful. It was validating to have the opportunity to research this topic because I was able to uncover facts and statistics that backed up my own experience.
Q: What did it mean to speak at the event?
A: It pushed me out of my comfort zone. I wanted to try something that was vulnerable and would expose me to a bigger audience than I’m used to. I wanted to talk about personal ideas that could hopefully make an impact. I really enjoyed discussing a topic that some people might be scared to talk about. After the show, it was so rewarding to have people approach me to say that my talk resonated with them.
Q: Where is your favorite coffee spot?
A: Local Java at Alumni. Sitting outside is a great way to be near food and caffeine and your friends, and you get a great view of Alumni Lawn.
Q: How have you carved your path as a VU student?
A: My idea of what I wanted to do has definitely shifted since I’ve been here. The climate studies major, which I’m super involved with now, didn’t exist when I got here. That has been such an amazing home for me and the perfect academic path. There have been so many opportunities in my first two years here that have allowed me to create my own path. Vanderbilt is such a supportive community and it feels like everyone can be in their own lanes. That’s what makes it so easy to support each other, none of those lanes are crashing and you can always create your own.