‘I want to add something meaningful to my life’: Mithila on joining Columbia

Rafiath Rashid Mithila has won audiences over through her work in Bangladeshi and Indian Bengali films, as well as with several acclaimed projects on OTT platforms. Her journey began with modelling, followed by television acting, but alongside her career in showbiz, she spent many years working with international development organisation BRAC.

Now, Mithila has embarked on a new chapter in her life — one that is not only significant for her personally but also a source of pride for Bangladesh. Her latest achievement has drawn warm wishes from fellow artistes and colleagues across the country's showbiz community.

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Mithila joined the Columbia University, Irving Institute for Clinical and Translational Research as an Associate Research Scientist. She is currently based in the United States, from where she spoke to The Daily Star about her new journey.

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Mithila begins new chapter at Columbia University, CUNY

Speaking about her feelings after joining Columbia as a researcher, Mithila said, “I feel really good. It is a very respected profession. I will be doing something that I genuinely love, which makes it even more special.”

“Columbia University is one of the world's top 10 universities. I also want to do well as a researcher. I want to gain new experiences and add something meaningful to my life,” she added.

Her new achievement has brought immense joy to her parents as well.

“They are really happy and proud. Whatever I have achieved today is because of them. Their contribution to my life has been the greatest. They have always encouraged and inspired me. I have been able to come this far because of their support,” Mithila said.

Reflecting on her first day at Columbia, she described it as a memorable experience, despite not having any formal work on the schedule.

“There was no actual work on the first day. Still, I made some beautiful memories and had some wonderful experiences. I felt a different kind of happiness. I also spoke to the professor I will be working with. That was about it,” she said.

Mithila also looked back fondly on her long association with BRAC.

“To be honest, everyone at BRAC gave me a very warm farewell. I worked there for many years. I developed a deep emotional connection with the organisation through all the work I did there. I travelled to many countries and gained so many experiences,” she said.

“I have worked in many countries, and I will never forget the love I received from the people there,” she added.

As she begins this new chapter, Mithila has one simple request for everyone who has supported her journey.

“Please keep me in your prayers and shower me with your love. I hope I can do something good,” she said.