Athlete, Author, Poet, and Musician: St. John’s Student Has Made Her Mark Across Several Disciplines

Mokshada Choudhary has plenty on her plate—and handles it with confidence and ease. 

A sophomore from India majoring in economics and minoring in international studies at St. John’s University, Mokshada is a member of the Red Storm Women’s Fencing team and the author of four published books. She is also a gifted pianist who has been playing since early childhood.   

“I followed a schedule like this throughout high school,” Mokshada said. “So, transitioning to college was not a big deal for me. Managing everything comes easily, and I see results from it. It makes me happy, and it makes my family and friends proud.”

Mokshada is also the founder of a nongovernmental organization in India focused on community service. The Care Takers Society organizes cultural and educational programs for orphanages, nursing homes, and children with special needs.

Managing a demanding schedule is nothing new for Mokshada. Structure has always been a part of her life, making the balance between academics, athletics, publishing, and civic engagement feel natural.

Mokshada began writing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her first book, The Musings of Chimera, is a poetry collection written during her high school years and published in 2022. Her second book, Arekhan, published in 2023, features a collection of original sketches. Her third and fourth books compile blog posts she previously published online.

She is actively involved on the St. John’s Queens, NY, campus, serving as an events coordinator for the International Students Committee and participating in several programs within The Peter J. Tobin College of Business. These include the Consult Your Community (CYC) chapter and the Thomas J. Cox Jr. Honors Program. She is also participating in two research projects with professors from Tobin. 

“Mokshada has a curious energy that is infectious to those around her,” said Tracey L. Freiberg, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Economics and Finance at Tobin and one of Mokshada’s professors. “We are thrilled she decided to come to St. John’s and are excited to see her contributions over the next few years.” Dr. Freiberg is working with Mokshada on a research project in developmental economics. 

“My goal is to work for the United Nations in the Economic and Social Council,” Mokshada said. “To get there, I need to showcase my abilities. That is why I joined the research projects with my professors where we attend conferences and present our work. CYC has been a great platform for connecting with businesses and practicing my communication and networking skills.”

Of course, it has not been easy. Adjusting to National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I fencing competition in the United States has been a challenge, she said.

“I am still adapting to this elite level of fencing,” Mokshada said. “In India, fencing is still a developing sport, and we do not have many facilities. So, coming here and seeing all these high-level athletes is a little intimidating.”

Mokshada’s transition to life in the US has been smoother—something she credits to her background. “Academically, the shift was pretty easy,” she said. “In India, we have a very rigorous education system, and my high school classes were quite hard core.”

Being apart from her family has been manageable. Mokshada said her frequent travel to fencing competitions in India prepared her for the distance.

Campus support has played a leading role in easing her transition. She praised St. John’s International Student and Scholar Services Office administrators and staff for their constant guidance. 

“I send them emails every day with so many questions,” Mokshada said with a laugh. “And fortunately, they reply to almost every one of them and are really helpful.”

“I really like my academic adviser, as well, who has been overseeing all my classes and fencing practices, helping me manage my schedule,” she added. “Coming to a new country can be overwhelming, but they really helped me through it.”

Mokshada enjoys being involved on campus and continues to discover all that St. John’s has to offer. She encourages fellow students to do the same. 

“Go out and explore,” she said. “There is always something happening on campus, and students should make the most of it.”