Moving to Boston at 18, Heena didn’t know what to expect. Six years later, she’s collected moments she’ll never forget—some that made her smile, others that made her want to give up.
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Here’s her honest take on the ups and downs of life as a Nepali student.
Best Moment: Personal Growth
“The biggest win wasn’t academic—it was realizing how much I’d grown. Back in Nepal, I was just a regular kid following the crowd. Here, I learned to think for myself.”
✅ She switched majors twice and still excelled.
✅ Joined Honors College and crushed critical thinking classes.
✅ Discovered her passion for healthcare leadership.
“I came here unsure of everything. Now I know exactly what I want and how to get there.”
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Hardest Moment: The Lonely First Year
Heena’s first two years in Boston were quiet—too quiet.
“No Nepali friends. No social life. I’d go to class, take notes, and come straight home.”
The isolation hit hardest during festivals like Dashain and Tihar.
“Everyone back home was celebrating together. I’d scroll Instagram and feel so far away.”
How She Turned It Around
✅ Joined the Nepali Student Association (NSA) in her third year.
✅ Made friends in research labs and Honors College.
✅ Started seeing Boston as home—not just a temporary stop.
“Finding community changed everything. You can’t do this alone.”
Takeaways for New Students
🌟 Your first year might feel lonely. That’s normal. Keep showing up.
🌟 Seek out clubs, events, and people who share your culture—it’s healing.
🌟 Don’t forget to call home. The little things keep you grounded.
Her Final Reflection?
“The US pushed me out of my comfort zone. It wasn’t always easy, but every hard moment shaped the person I am today.”