Rhitamvara Pokharel

Rhitamvara Pokharel, MSW, is a doctoral student focused on advancing research in the areas of interpersonal violence, with a specialization in intimate partner violence among South Asian immigrant women residing in the United States. She is keen on exploring the intersection of immigration, domestic violence, sexual assault, and the mental health implications in women, specifically in women of South Asian descent for her thesis. Her broader research focus would investigate the matter of migration, trafficking, and the interpersonal violence experience of women and how cultural norms influence their emotional and mental well-being. She currently serves as an active member of the South Asian Social Work Educators’ Association (SASWEA) Board of Directors. Prior to beginning her doctoral program, Rhitamvara held various leadership positions, including serving as an active member of the student government as a student senate at the University of Wyoming, as a representative of the International Student Association, and as a representative of Multicultural Affairs at the university. She enjoys networking, expanding both her professional and personal networks, sharing about her culture and heritage, and spending as much time in nature as possible.