Kshitija S. Kulkarni

Master of City and Regional Planning, Class of 2026

Areas of Interest: Transportation policy & planning
Hometown: Mumbai, India
Activities at Rutgers: Mentorship Program Coordinator, Bloustein Graduate Student Association; Writing Assistant, Rutgers School of Management and Labor Relations

Kshitija S. Kulkarni was fascinated by how people moved in cities, on roads, or on buses and trains. “I was astounded by the connections between people and places,” she said. “The extensive transit system of Mumbai made me interested in transit route planning, how they connect to different locations, and the issues that influence limited movement.”

During her architectural studies and as a junior in Mumbai, Kshitija developed a foundation in how urban design influences the process by which people move through cities. “Even though my work experience did not directly pertain to transportation planning, it helped spark my interest in understanding the larger systems that connect cities and people,” she said

“I had the opportunity to work on real-life projects and started honing my design and problem-solving skills. I began to understand how planning and infrastructure impact people’s daily lives.”

At some point Kshitija’s perspective shifted, becoming centered around the idea of inclusive planning and creating better, livable cities. She began to think more about transportation planning and pursuing a MCRP program.

She discovered the Bloustein School while researching urban planning programs in the United States. “I was impressed to discover that Bloustein was ranked among the top programs nationally,” she said. “I was also drawn in by the diverse and inclusive student community and extensive professional and alumni network. The chance to learn directly from experienced faculty members, especially those who are engaged in innovative transportation research, was also a positive.”

Introduction to Transportation Planning with Professor Kelcie Ralph has been one of her favorite classes so far. “She was engaging and organized with every class, regardless of how complex the material was,” Kshitija said. “She allowed the class to discuss topics openly, brought real-world stories into discussions, and made it dynamic and exciting. She helped strengthen my passion for transportation planning and helped create a solid foundation for future classes.”

Beyond the classroom, Kshitija recently took on the role of Mentorship Program Coordinator for the Bloustein Graduate Student Association. “This has been a significant experience for me,” she said. “I am excited to take on a leadership role that connects new students to mentors and helps the school build a robust, supportive community.”

The Bloustein School’s collaborative environment, challenging academic rigor, and support from both faculty and fellow students have exceeded Kshitija’s expectations and shaped her academic experience and professional growth. She knows prospective students will have similar experiences.

“Bloustein offers great resources, helpful professors, and a welcoming community. Be open to learning anything and everything you can. Even if you have some concrete ideas on the area of planning you’d like to focus on, it is helpful to be exposed to the different aspects of planning,” she said. “Be willing to participate and get involved. That will help you feel like a member of the school, thus aiding your own experience. Most importantly, try to enjoy every moment.”

After graduation, Kshitija hopes to work in transportation planning to support the development of more sustainable, safe, and accessible transit systems. “I want to work on projects that enhance public transit, walking, and cycling,” she said. “I feel invigorated to apply everything I’m learning at Bloustein to foster better urban connectivity.”

In her free time, Kshitija enjoys exploring cities, trying new foods, and connecting with people through travel, photography, and playing badminton. “I enjoy learning about new cities and cultures through their food,” she said. “It connects me to my roots, reminds me of growing up in Mumbai, where each neighborhood had its own unique feel, its own food, and its own sense of community. That connection to everyday life and city life is what inspires my interest in planning better, more vibrant cities for the future.”