Alongside her acting career, Rafiyat Rashid Mithila has long been involved in the development sector.

Now, the actress has embarked on a brand-new professional chapter by joining Columbia University in New York as an "Associate Research Scientist," alongside beginning teaching at the City University of New York (CUNY).

Mithila shared the news of her new professional journey on social media, noting that she is stepping into this role after nearly two decades of experience with BRAC, which included 15 years working in international development with BRAC International.

At Columbia University, she will serve as an Associate Research Scientist at the Irving Institute for Clinical and Translational Research.

In her new role, she will lead the design and evaluation of the New York-based "Early Childhood and Family Hub" project.

The initiative focuses on early childhood development, family engagement, and community health.

A primary goal of the project is to connect families of children aged zero to five with the necessary opportunities and supportive environments for child development.

Mithila expressed optimism about contributing to the project by applying her extensive experience, aligning research goals with local community needs, and advancing evidence-based programming.

In addition to her position at Columbia University, Mithila has started teaching at the City University of New York as an "Adjunct Assistant Professor," where she will teach "Nonprofit Management."

One of her main pedagogical goals is to provide students with practical insights into the operations of real-world nonprofit organizations.

Expressing gratitude to BRAC for her foundational journey, Mithila views the research infrastructure at Columbia University and the opportunity to collaborate with fellow researchers as an exciting new milestone to enrich her professional experience.

Balancing her acting career with a long-standing footprint in international development, Mithila's professional journey in the United States has now expanded into the realms of advanced research and academia.