Through SLI, she has explored her evolving interests in STEM, from engineering and design to medicine and healthcare innovation. As an SLI student, Rhea has worked on a variety of projects, including the IRIS Calm Kit, a sensory-support kit designed to help patients manage overstimulation in emergency room settings. Her team pitched the project to the executive leadership team at Good Samaritan Hospital, where their work helped encourage the implementation of earplugs as a patient-support tool in the ER.

Beyond SLI, Rhea has taken on numerous leadership roles including serving as ASB President and class president for 3-years. Through student government, she has enjoyed bringing her school community together through events such as Homecoming Floats and Battle of the Classes, where she has watched her class grow, collaborate, and celebrate continuous victories. Rhea has also given back to her community by volunteering with the South Asian Heart Center, where she helps schedule patient appointments, and with the Belmont Senior Center, where she plans creative and engaging activities for seniors.

In her free time, Rhea enjoys swimming, spending time with friends and family, and exploring her interest in healthcare. She plans to further her academic interests by majoring in neuroscience on the pre-med track at UC Berkeley.