Dartmouth

From Dhangadhi to Dartmouth: A Journey Across Worlds

There's something poetic about how life's most transformative journeys often begin with the simplest of moments. For me, it was a quiet morning in Dhangadhi, Nepal, coffee in hand, scrolling through the news—a ritual I've maintained for nearly a decade now.

The Headline That Changed Everything

It was 2016, and I was in 10th grade when I spotted a headline that would alter my trajectory forever: a student had been accepted to all eight Ivy League universities. Two questions immediately surfaced in my mind:

Why was this student's achievement front-page news on what I considered the world's most prestigious news outlets?

And more fundamentally: ke ho yo "Ivy League"? What exactly was this "Ivy League" that warranted global attention?

Curiosity ignited, I began researching. These weren't just good schools—they represented educational excellence on a global scale. In that moment of discovery, a quiet determination took root: if this person could achieve such recognition, perhaps I could too.

The Beautiful Obsession

What followed was my first taste of true obsession—a focused dedication that transformed my approach to education. The Nepal government curriculum suddenly felt like merely a foundation rather than a ceiling.

I immersed myself in SAT preparation, expanded my English writing abilities beyond basic proficiency, and methodically researched every aspect of the American college application process. Each night after completing my regular schoolwork, I'd dive into this parallel education—learning about recommendation letters, personal statements, and the nuanced differences between these prestigious institutions.

My first SAT attempt yielded a 1380—kasto niraasha lagyo—what disappointment. But failure simply meant another opportunity to improve. The second attempt: 1510. Subject tests followed: Mathematics 780, Physics 730. With minimal TOEFL preparation (perhaps an excess of confidence), I scored 113.

Finding Purpose Beyond Admission

Princeton ranked first in my dreams, primarily because of my passion for economics and international development. But when Dartmouth—my second choice—offered admission, I recognized it as the ideal environment for my growth.

The journey from Dhangadhi to Hanover represented more than geographical distance—it spanned cultural worlds, educational systems, and personal transformation. Navigating this path required not just academic preparation but emotional resilience and cultural adaptability.

The Foundations of Success

None of this would have been possible without two essential pillars:

My parents, whose unwavering support manifested in both emotional encouragement and practical sacrifice. In a society where educational paths are often predetermined, they embraced my unconventional ambitions with open hearts.

And my dearest Taba..

Reflections on Transformation

Looking back from my current vantage point, I see how this journey shaped not just my educational path but my approach to challenges. The process of getting to Dartmouth taught me more about determination, research methodology, and self-belief than perhaps any formal education could.

When people ask how a kid from Dhangadhi ended up at an Ivy League institution, the simple answer is through hard work and luck. But the deeper truth involves cultural bridge-building, intellectual curiosity, and the courage to envision possibilities beyond the visible horizon.

This story remains a work in progress—just as I continue evolving through each new chapter of my professional and personal life.

To be continued...