Sport: Cross Country, Indoor Track, Outdoor Track
Class year: 2025
Major: Double major in Anthropology and Neuroscience
Meet Sohini Sarkar: Runner, Scholar, Cultural Advocate
Sohini Sarkar is a dedicated member of Bryn Mawr College's cross-country and track & field teams. As an Indian American scholar-athlete, she seamlessly blends her cultural heritage with her athletic pursuits, embodying the spirit of perseverance and community both on and off the track.
Now a graduate, Sarkar is pursuing a Master of Public Health at the University of Columbia. 
Embracing Heritage Through Athletics
Sarkar's identity and heritage plays a major role in the way she moves about the world.
"Being Indian American has shaped me as a person and the way in which I experience the world," she reflects. "My culture has molded my work ethic and taught me to embrace a strong community."
It's this connection to community that initially drew her to Bryn Mawr—a place where cultural values like mutual respect, perseverance, and inclusivity are more than just ideals. "It made Bryn Mawr a great place for me to grow and explore my culture."
The Philosophy of Karma in Training
A central tenet of her cultural philosophy, Karma, plays a pivotal role in her athletic mindset. 
"Karma speaks to the cycle of energy and how the energy that you put into something will return," she explains. "Each action has consequences."
This belief motivates her to invest wholeheartedly in every race, workout, and training session, understanding that her efforts will yield corresponding results. "It makes dealing with the confusing aspects of the sport easier and helps highlight the best aspects."
Staying Connected Amidst Commitments
Balancing academics, athletics, and cultural engagement is no small feat. However, Sarkar finds ways to stay connected to her heritage. "Going to school so close to a large city like Philadelphia makes it a bit easier in terms of ordering cultural food or finding festivals," she notes.
Leadership in Cultural Organizations 
Beyond athletics, the senior actively contributes to the South Asian Students' (SAS) association at Bryn Mawr, serving as the treasurer. "Having an active role in fostering a safe space has made me more cognizant of how much goes into making sure students have a place of belonging," she reflects. Through organizing events and creating inclusive spaces, SAS brings various Asian cultures to campus and provides South Asian students with a sense of home.
A Message for AANHPI Heritage Month
In honor of AANHPI Heritage Month, Sarkar encourages the campus community to delve deeper into the origins of everyday practices. "Supporting your AANHPI friends and teammates starts with a little bit of initiative, but a little goes a long way," she advises. By acknowledging and appreciating the diverse cultural contributions that enrich daily life, the community can foster greater understanding and inclusivity.
