Hari Sharma, PhD, is an associate professor in the Department of Health Management and Policy. He joined the program in 2018.

Q: Congratulations on your promotion to associate professor! How has your journey since 2018 shaped your perspective on research and teaching?

A: Stepping into a faculty role right after my PhD was both exciting and overwhelming. What made all the difference was the welcoming environment in the department and the college. That sense of support helped me find my footing. My work with the RUPRI Center has played a major role in shaping my research. It gave me the opportunity to explore rural health issues in depth and connect them to broader policy questions on long-term care. Throughout these years, teaching has been a very meaningful part of my journey as well. I have enjoyed working with students across different levels and hearing how course contents show up in their everyday lives. I have also learned to listen more closely to what students need. Their feedback helps me grow, and I believe it also creates space for them to grow.

Q: What initially drew you to focus your research on nursing homes and long-term care?

A: Mentors shape our paths in powerful ways. During my time at the University of Chicago, I worked closely with my advisor, Dr. Tamara Konetzka, an expert in long-term care and aging policy. As I learned more about the care needs of older adults, I was struck by how our healthcare system often overlooks long-term care. Despite its importance, it remains underfunded and disconnected from broader national health policy. I realized this is a space where research can make a real difference. That motivation has stayed with me ever since.

Q: What do you find most rewarding about mentoring students as they navigate their academic and professional paths in public health?

A: Mentoring is one of the most fulfilling parts of my role. It is inspiring to see students arrive with big ideas and then grow into those ambitions over time. I value the conversations we have about research, career paths, and sometimes just life. Students often bring fresh perspectives that challenge and motivate me as well. More than anything, I try to be honest and supportive. Mentoring is not just about advice. It is about helping students find their own voice and confidence.

Q: What’s something students might be surprised to learn about you?

A: During my undergraduate years, I worked three part-time jobs on campus at the same time. Whether typing up catalog entries for books/music dating back several centuries using an old typewriter, or sorting mail in the campus post office, I valued these jobs as they taught me how to manage time, stay focused, and show up even when things felt challenging. So, if you are ever struggling, whether with deadlines, balancing time, or just feeling overwhelmed, please come talk to me. I have been there, and I am happy to support you.