Hi! My name is Ritika Asher. I am a first-year student at Princeton University, pursuing a major in Politics with a concentration in International Relations, and minoring in French and History. My passions lie in migration, international human rights, and the intersection of law, policy, and advocacy.

I am the author of Detained (2023), a book that sheds light on the inhumane conditions inside immigration detention centers through deeply moving personal narratives. Beyond writing, I actively engage in advocacy and support work. As a volunteer with Solidaridad Central Jersey, I assist asylum seekers with their applications, leveraging my fluency in French to serve as an ESL tutor for francophone migrants at El Centro NJ.

Art has always been central to my advocacy. I am passionate about using graphic design and video editing to raise awareness of human rights abuses and amplify the voices of marginalized communities. While interning at SOS Méditerranée in France, I created promotional videos and media campaigns that enhanced visibility and engaged donors for migrant rescue efforts. This creative outlet complements my commitment to storytelling and policy reform.

My professional experiences include interning at the Office of the Governor of New Jersey, where I drafted policy memos addressing police brutality and analyzed key local issues, and working as a Research Assistant at Princeton, studying refugee integration and border deterrence policies.

On campus, I am an Undergraduate Fellow at the Center for International Security Studies, a member of the Mental Health Committee within the Undergraduate Student Government, and a choreographer and leader in the Princeton University Ballet. These roles reflect my dedication to leadership, advocacy, and the arts.

I am always eager to collaborate on initiatives related to migration, human rights, or creative advocacy. Let’s connect!