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College In Nepal Confessions Of An Nrn: A Rollercoaster Journey of Culture Shock and Self-Discovery

Ken Simmons

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Nepal, known as the land of the Himalayas and birthplace of Lord Buddha, has always held a special place in my heart. Growing up as a Nepali living abroad, I had always heard stories about the beautiful landscapes, diverse culture, and warm-hearted people of my homeland. So, when the time came for me to pursue higher education, I decided to take a leap of faith and enroll in a college in Nepal.

A Cultural Rollercoaster

Being a Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) and having lived outside the country for most of my life, I thought I was well-prepared for the cultural differences I would face in Nepal. However, nothing could fully prepare me for the rollercoaster ride of emotions I experienced during my time in college.

The first few weeks were overwhelming. The hustle and bustle of the busy streets, the spicy aroma of street food, and the constant honking of vehicles all added to the culture shock I was experiencing. But as days turned into weeks, I slowly started finding my place in this new world.

College in Nepal: Confessions of an NRN

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Language Barrier and Adaptation

One of the biggest challenges I faced was the language barrier. Nepali, being the national language, was not something I was fluent in. Understanding and speaking the language became a necessity for survival, as most of my professors and fellow students communicated in Nepali.

Despite the initial difficulties, I seized every opportunity to improve my language skills. I enrolled in language classes and made friends who were willing to patiently teach me the intricacies of the language. Slowly but surely, I started feeling more confident in my ability to express myself and connect with the Nepali community.

The Nepali Education System

Another aspect of college life in Nepal that took some getting used to was the education system. Coming from a foreign education system, I found the emphasis on rote learning and memorization quite different. However, I soon realized the importance of adapting to the local system and understanding the cultural context in which education was valued.

Despite the challenges, I found the Nepali education system to be holistic and rigorous. Professors were knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, pushing us to think critically and question the status quo. The emphasis on practical skills and real-life application of knowledge was refreshing and helped me develop a well-rounded skill set.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

College life in Nepal was not just about adapting to a new culture; it was also a journey of self-discovery. Being away from the comforts of home and the familiarity of my previous life forced me to confront my fears and step out of my comfort zone.

Embracing Diversity

Nepal, despite its small size, is a diverse country with over a hundred ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions and customs. Interacting with people from different backgrounds exposed me to the richness of this diversity, enabling me to appreciate the many shades of Nepali culture.

From celebrating festivals like Dashain and Tihar with my Nepali friends to participating in cultural events showcasing traditional dances and music, I immersed myself in the beauty and depth of Nepali culture. It was through these experiences that I not only gained a deeper understanding of my own roots but also developed a greater appreciation for the world around me.

Becoming a Global Citizen

College life in Nepal also opened new doors for me to connect with the wider global community. Through various international conferences, exchange programs, and multicultural events, I had the opportunity to meet students from different parts of the world, each with their own unique perspectives and stories to share.

These interactions broadened my horizons and challenged my preconceived notions about the world. I learned to appreciate the interconnectedness of global issues and the importance of collective action. As an NRN, this experience was particularly valuable as it helped me bridge the gap between my two worlds and fostered a sense of global citizenship.

The Power of College In Nepal

College life in Nepal has been a life-changing experience for me. It has taught me resilience and adaptability, it has challenged my worldview, and it has given me a newfound sense of identity and purpose.

So, to all the NRNs out there who are contemplating studying in Nepal, I urge you to take the plunge. Embrace the unknown, embrace the challenges, and embrace the beautiful chaos that is college life in Nepal. It might just be the best decision you ever make.

As I reflect upon my time in college in Nepal, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences and opportunities it has provided me. It has shaped me into the person I am today, with a deep love and appreciation for my homeland and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

College in Nepal truly is a rollercoaster journey of culture shock and self-discovery, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.