Simran Kaur Sandhu

My name is Simran, and I am a junior majoring in Biology at UW and I’m pursuing certificates in Environmental Studies and Global Health. I was born and raised in Madison, WI. I’m a proud Baby Badger. My parents immigrated from Punjab, India to join my aunt and uncle who were here in the United States in the early 90s, along with my mom’s parents and the rest of her siblings. I grew up in a Sikh household and was surrounded by my big extended family. Instead of two siblings and two parents, it was like growing up with seventeen siblings and twelve parents. I like to bike and run, paint, read, and eat lots of food (I’m a big foodie). Being a Sikh has always been an integral part of who I am and has been the guide for who I’d like to become. The word ‘Sikh’ means ‘student’ and this philosophy is the essence of my desire to understand what life is about. Becoming a CRGC Fellow was something I chose to pursue because it brings together individuals with diverse beliefs and creates a space for interfaith dialogue, which makes for a unique and enriching learning environment. I’m excited and grateful to share life stories with my fellow students and hope that we connect in deep and inspiring ways.