Student Spotlight: Palak Narhari Vaidya ‘24
September 2024
“I am happy to be a Kean student and a Kean employee!”
Palak Narhari Vaidya joined Kean University as a transfer student from Middlesex College, after arriving in the United States from Zambia, Africa in 2004 to pursue an education. Choosing Kean turned out to be a pivotal decision, as the university provided her with invaluable opportunities and set her on a path to academic and personal success.
Vaidya said Kean University had a profound impact on her life, motivating her to continue her education and pursue a career in counseling. The knowledge gained from faculty and the relevance of the coursework were crucial to her development. She found Kean’s diverse community, supportive faculty and staff, and eco-friendly campus deeply enriching.
Now, as a Kean employee working in the psychology department, she draws inspiration and guidance from the very people who were once her professors. She said her work with faculty and staff has enhanced her patience and drive and allowed her to offer valuable assistance to the Kean University community.
Vaidya describes her experience at Kean as “tremendously marvelous” and feels honored to be part of the Kean family, both as a student and an employee. In her role within the psychology department, she connects with students on a personal level, understanding their needs and concerns through the lens of her own experiences. She is grateful to Kean for recognizing her skills and dedication. Reflecting on her educational journey, Vaidya has learned the importance of advocating for others and continues to apply this value in both her personal and professional life.
At one point, Vaidya’s educational progress was threatened by financial challenges. Juggling full-time work, part-time studies and personal expenses became overwhelming, and she considered halting her education. However, faculty members Dr. Jane Webber and the late Dr. Barry Mascari introduced her to the Kean University Foundation. The scholarship support she received eased her financial burden, allowing her to focus more fully on her studies and balance her home life.
One of Vaidya’s most cherished memories at Kean is her induction into Chi Sigma Iota in 2015, a special honor bestowed by the Department of Counselor Education. It meant a lot to her that her family, especially her cousin and role model Amit Vaidya, who was battling a serious illness, was able to attend the event. Despite his illness, Amit made it a priority to attend family events and she deeply treasured sharing that special moment with him.
As a future counselor educator, Vaidya aspires to motivate students and help them achieve their goals. She is deeply thankful to her family, friends and the entire Kean University community for their support, which has enabled her to enhance her skills and assist other students in realizing their potential. She is committed to continuing her efforts to guide and empower future Kean students on their journeys to success.