Alisha Flexwala is a 2026 dean’s distinguished graduate from the University of Texas at Austin, where she earned a BS in psychology. She pursued an interdisciplinary education in psychology, neuroscience, and communication, thereby shaping her aspiration to become a physician who values both science and compassionate care. At UT Austin, she contributed to neuroimaging research at Dr. Franco Pestilli’s lab, working on clinical MRI data and white matter analysis. She is now a co-author on two of the lab’s research publications. As a Gilman scholar, she also participated in cognitive neuroscience research at the University of Geneva during her study abroad program in Switzerland.
Alongside research, Alisha is actively engaged in mentorship, clinical service, and education. She has mentored students to support their academic and personal growth, and has served as an undergraduate teaching assistant for an upper-division psychology course on cognitive development. At UT Austin’s Health Services, she supported the physical therapy team in patient care and recovery. Her lived experiences have shaped her commitment to advancing equitable healthcare and improving patient outcomes through global collaborations.
Alisha’s Fulbright-Nehru research project is examining how traditional Rajasthani Kathputli puppetry can be adapted to support maternal health education among underserved communities in India. Through interviews and collaborations, the project is exploring culturally grounded approaches to communicating health information in accessible and engaging ways. Using qualitative research methods, the study is also evaluating the effectiveness and broader potential of integrating traditional art forms into health initiatives. Ultimately, the project aims to demonstrate how cultural innovation can promote maternal well-being in sustainable ways, thus contributing to healthier mothers and babies.