“I grew up in Nepal and came to Mississippi State in 2016 to study genetic engineering and learn more about DNA. I want to work in a lab finding cures and Nepal doesn’t have a good university for this. I am graduating this semester with my master’s degree. I hope my parents can get their Visas and travel from Nepal for the ceremony. They couldn’t come to my undergraduate graduation because of COVID.

It was a culture shock moving from Nepal to Mississippi, but I have been here for six years. Everyone has been kind to me. I met a great couple who have helped me with everything including finding an apartment and setting it up. I like it here with the peaceful, calm, healthy environment.

When I ask people where they think Nepal is, they usually say India or China. Nepal is a small country in Asia full of mountains and natural beauty. It’s not a rich country, but the people are warm like they are in Mississippi. Everyone should visit Nepal.”

Shraddha