Student Scholar Blog & Graduate Community of Practice

Hello, and welcome to my blog!  

My name is Drashti Chikhalia, and I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in health data informatics and Analytics at the University of Denver in Colorado. My academic and professional experiences have been shaped by a profound desire to improve community health and well-being through data-driven insights and effective communication. 

My path into healthcare and data analytics began in India, where I earned a Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) from Ahmedabad Dental College, Gujarat University, in March 2015. This core coursework gave me a strong understanding of oral health and patient care. I pursued a Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) at the College of Dental Science, Bhavnagar University, and will graduate in September 2021. These early years in dental surgery helped me develop my skills in clinical practice, patient management, and healthcare research. 

I am now studying health data informatics at the University of Denver. Here, I'm honing the analytical skills and technological aptitude required to turn health data into actionable insights, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes. I expect to finish my master’s program in August 2025. In addition to my academic activities, I am honored to be a scholar at the University of Denver's Center for Community Engagement to Advance Scholarship and Learning (CCESL). This position allows me to actively participate in community development activities, which is a cause I am very enthusiastic about. 

At CCESL, my tasks are numerous and significant. I make interesting newsletters and eye-catching posters to promote a wide range of events and opportunities. These materials are intended to inform and inspire community members, encouraging engagement and developing a sense of community. Through these outreach programs, I hope to help people improve their quality of life, whether through educational workshops, health awareness campaigns, or community service projects. 

My work at CCESL is more than a job, it's a calling. I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to have a healthy and fulfilled life. By fostering health literacy and community engagement, I hope to make a positive difference in the lives of those around me. My objective is to connect individuals with the resources and knowledge they need to thrive, whether it's through a well-crafted newsletter that piques their interest in a local health event or a vivid poster that highlights a community service opportunity. 

As I continue my education and professional development, I am thrilled about what the future holds in the field of health data informatics. I am devoted to using my skills and experience to help develop healthcare systems and community health initiatives. My ultimate goal is to use my dentistry and informatics experience to develop creative solutions that improve patient care and community well-being. 

Thank you for visiting my portfolio site. I invite you to learn about my educational history, work experiences, publications, and reflections. If you share my enthusiasm for community health and data-driven solutions, please reach out via the contact page. Together, we can make a difference.