Global Ambassador: Shivani Ramoutar

Shivani Ramoutar, from Trinidad and Tobago, is a Ph.D. student in Curriculum & Instruction. Her present research is in Learning Design & Technology focuses on using inclusive classroom practices in STEM education with a specific emphasis on geospatial technology for connecting people, places, and stories in higher education.

Ambassador Q & A (Questions and Answers)

Briefly describe your research.

My present research in Learning Design & Technology focuses on using inclusive classroom practices in STEM education, with a specific emphasis on geospatial technology for connecting people, places, and stories in higher education. I view technology in education as a way to improve student outcomes, enhance communication between teachers/students, and increase diversity and inclusion, when combined with sound pedagogy and design principles. 

Why did you choose Purdue?

In 2019, I was looking for a graduate school where I could be supported in the work I wanted to do and also feel like I was accepted and belonged. As a Fulbright scholar, I was accepted into several top institutions. What really sold Purdue for me, is the level of support offered by my advisor and the wonderful conversations I had with graduate students who told me of their positive experiences within my program. Purdue just felt like home before I even got here.

How did you decide what to study?

I was intrigued by the Learning Design and Technology program since it was quite novel and interesting to me. I had never heard about this before – it combined all the things I loved, teaching, education, design and technology. My department was open and accepting of diverse perspectives and supported me through the development of my research plan, before arriving here.

Where do you spend most of your time on campus?

I like open spaces and good lighting, so I spend a lot of time at Marriott Hall, which is right next to Beering Hall where I work. I love grabbing a coffee there, eating a croissant, and preparing for the class I teach.

What was your process for selecting a graduate school?

My Fulbright advisor assisted me with narrowing my list to five schools. I applied to some geography programs and some curriculum programs after months of research. I used an excel spreadsheet to organize my information. I reached out to professors, and graduate students, engaging in long, honest conversations about the culture, diversity, and work, at each institution. I also reviewed publications, grants, and research coming out of the different departments. From there, I went through submitting references, writing essays, transcripts, GRE scores. I put my best foot forward and was accepted into four out of the five schools. Since Purdue was my top choice, it was an easy yes for me!

What's the biggest difference between your home country Trinidad and Tobago and Purdue?

Trinidad and Tobago is a beach country, a tropical country, so the sun and topography is perhaps the biggest difference. I do miss the beaches, of course, but I compensate by spending a lot of time on the West Lafayette hiking trails. Trinidad is also a very culturally rich nation, so you can find a little piece of most cultures in my home country. This is also something I like at Purdue, making new global connections, sharing stories, and good food.

How do you keep yourself organized?

I am a very neat person, and I think if I keep my physical surroundings clean and tidy, mentally I am prepared to work or relax. I always leave a couple of days free to make sure I do errands, stock the refrigerator, make snacks, and clean. These things are important to my overall functioning and well-being. I also allow myself flexible time to do anything I want to do, like looking for new houseplants or going bowling with friends and checking out on-campus cultural events. This free time helps keep the rest of the week organized.

What does your typical day look like:  commute, work/research, study spots, places to eat?

My typical day looks like: wake up at 6:45 am, check my emails, organize my teaching material, catch the 8:15 am bus from my apartment, and arrive at Marriott Hall by 8:45 am. From here, I grab a coffee, croissant and chat with my mom while having breakfast. I teach at Beering Hall until 11:30 am, catch up with my friends, and say hi to our department staff secretaries. Then I make a stop at the HSSE library, catch up on my own studying, and leave campus at around 2 pm. Then I head to Chauncey, grab some bubble tea or snack, and take the bus home where I cook lunch for myself. I continue working from home and around 6 pm I either check in with a friend for a walk or exercise on one of the trails near my apartment complex.

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