So you’re packing your bags for America—passport, clothes, Wai Wai noodles for emergencies. You’re scrolling TikTok and Instagram, picturing yourself living your best life in Boston or New York.
But before you hop on that flight, here are 10 things I really wish someone told me when I moved here:
🍛 1. Dal Bhat Is a Luxury Here
Say goodbye to mom’s perfectly spiced dal. In the U.S., cooking dal bhat feels like a full-time job. (And don’t even get me started on finding decent basmati rice at Walmart.)
Pro Tip: Learn ONE easy Nepali recipe before you leave. Your homesick self will thank you later.
🥶 2. Winter Isn’t Cute
The snow looks magical on Instagram… until you’re walking to class at -10°C with frozen eyebrows.
Bring good boots. Like, really good ones. And don’t assume your Kathmandu hoodie will save you. It won’t.
🍟 3. Portion Sizes = Shocking
“Small” drinks are HUGE. “Medium” fries could feed your whole family. And yes, Americans actually take leftovers home. (Weird at first, but kinda genius.)
💸 4. Everything Costs $$$
That $5 coffee? $6 now with tax. $7 if you forget your reusable cup.
Welcome to America, where you’ll question every purchase.
📚 5. Studying Here Feels… Different
Forget cramming an entire book the night before finals. Here, it’s all about group projects, presentations, and participation.
Heads up: You’ll spend hours pretending you’re okay with group work.
🥟 6. Find Your Momo Spot ASAP
Your first homesick day will hit HARD. Knowing where to get decent momo (or frozen ones to steam) might just save your soul.
👋 7. Making Friends Takes Effort
No one’s going to magically show up and say, “Hi, let’s be BFFs!” You have to start the conversation. Scary? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.
🏃♀️ 8. Burnout Sneaks Up On You
You’ll want to join every club, take every shift, say yes to everything. Don’t. Chill. Pick what actually excites you.
📞 9. Homesickness Is Real
There will be days you miss the sound of street dogs barking at 2 a.m. That’s normal. Call home. Eat Maggi noodles. You’re allowed to feel it.
❤️ 10. You’ll Be Fine (Promise)
Even when it feels hard, you’ll figure it out. You’ll meet people who make you laugh till your stomach hurts. You’ll find spots that feel like home. You’ll grow.
Final Words
So pack your Wai Wai and your winter boots. America isn’t perfect, but it’s an adventure worth taking. And trust me—you’re way more ready than you think.