Dr. Rama Bala of Chance to Change Lives (CCL): Bringing Undergraduate Research to Smaller Colleges.

Dr. Rama Bala of Chance to Change Lives (CCL): Bringing Undergraduate Research to Smaller Colleges.

Author: Venkat Raman September 11, 2024 Duration: 44:24

Subscribe to Receive Venkat’s Weekly Newsletter

Dr. Bala read “Comet” by Dr. Carl Sagan when she was probably in middle school. The book captured her imagination and she was fascinated by astronomy. Over time her curiosity led her to physics and ultimately becoming a Professor of Physics at Roanoke College, VA.

On our podcast, Dr. Bala joins us on our podcast to talk about her background in academia, Physics and Research, Importance of doing UG Research, About CCL and commitment to UG Research, and finally Advice for High Schoolers.

In particular, we discuss the following with her: 

  • Dr. Rama Bala’s Background
  • Academia
  • Importance of UG Research
  • About CCL

Topics discussed in this episode:

  • Introducing Dr. Rama Bala []
  • Hi Fives - Podcast Highlights []
  • Professional Background []
  • Why Physics? []
  • Choosing Academia []
  • Academic & Research Experiences []
  • Getting Students to do Research []
  • Benefits of UG Research to Students []
  • UGR & Career Trajectory []
  • Founding CCL []
  • What is CCL []
  • What’s Next? []
  • Advice for High Schoolers []

Our Guest: Dr. Rama Bala, President and CEO, Chance to Change Lives, Pittsburgh, PA. Dr. Bala  has more than 25 years of experience working in academia, most recently as Professor of Physics at Roanoke College in Virginia. Dr. Bala has taught at Stanford University, Harvard University, Georgetown University, and James Madison University. 

Memorable Quote: “I think research really exposes students to develop a new and unique way of thinking when there are no answers, they’ve got to discover for themselves.” Dr. Bala.

Episode Transcript: Please visit Episode’s Transcript.

Similar Episodes: UG Research

Calls-to-action:


Navigating the path from high school to college is filled with big questions and personal choices. College Matters. Alma Matters., hosted by Venkat Raman, offers a space for those stories, moving beyond dry advice to share real conversations. Each episode brings forward the voices of people who have been exactly where you are-alumni reflecting on their campus lives, faculty members discussing what they look for in students, admissions officers demystifying their process, and counselors offering grounded strategies. This isn't about a single formula for success; it's about hearing a diverse collection of journeys and practical insights that can help you shape your own. Tuning into this podcast feels like getting honest, thoughtful perspectives from a trusted mentor. The focus remains on authentic personal experiences, from the challenges of preparation to the transformative moments of actual college life. By presenting these narratives, the aim is to both inform and inspire, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of what lies ahead. For any student charting their course toward higher education, these conversations can be a valuable companion, offering clarity and encouragement for the road ahead.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

College Matters. Alma Matters.
Podcast Episodes