Life as an international student can be a daunting challenge. The process of acclimating oneself to a new environment often comes with a sense of isolation and homesickness. However, finding small fragments of familiarity can significantly ease the pangs of homesickness amidst such struggles.
Sishwa Thoka is a dedicated graduate student at Northeastern University who intimately understands this sentiment. While pursuing her master’s degree in information systems in Boston, Sishwa lives independently without the comforting presence of family. For her, singing and dancing are more than just a hobby; it transforms into a lifeline in her new surroundings. She reveals that through its opportunities and events, Northeastern plays a crucial role in cultivating a sense of belonging.
In a parallel narrative, Gaurav Chouksey, a 23-year-old master’s student studying engineering management at Northeastern, who hails from India, echoes Sishwa’s sentiments. He acknowledges the initial adjustments required when transitioning to life in the United States but emphasises the strength and warmth of the Indian community within Northeastern. Gaurav, too, has found solace and a sense of home within the vibrant cultural events facilitated by organisations like NU Sanskriti and the Indian Cultural Association. These groups offer a platform for artistic expression and serve as a source of camaraderie among like-minded individuals.
NU Sanskriti is a cultural organisation that unites Indian undergraduate and graduate students to celebrate their heritage. It has a history of more than two decades and has grown to become one of the largest student groups on campus. NU Sanskriti is an excellent example of how student groups can provide a sense of belonging and community to international students.
The club comprises students from various parts of India and offers a welcoming space where individuals can embrace their cultural identity and express themselves freely. Through a range of events and activities, members can connect, learn, and celebrate together. Examples of the organisation’s functions span from vibrant traditional festivals like Holi and Diwali to educational lectures on Indian history and culture, as well as artistic showcases featuring dance, music, and theater performances. NU Sanskriti’s core mission is to create a sense of belonging among its members, many of whom are navigating life in a new country. The club organises events that resonate with the cultural traditions and values of its members, creating opportunities for students to form lasting friendships and support networks. Through collaborations with campus departments, local businesses, and other student organisations, the club continues to expand its reach and impact, ensuring that its cultural legacy lasts for generations to come.
Another example of an organisation that provides a sense of home at Northeastern is the Indian Cultural Association (ICA). Similar to the transformative impact observed within NU Sanskriti, ICA provides a welcoming space for students to engage with Indian culture. It aims to connect international students and Indian Americans, promoting unity and dialogue. The idea is to foster an inclusive environment where members can explore and appreciate their cultural heritage. The activities encourage community building through events such as Chai chats and Bollywood movie nights, offering avenues for students to connect. By joining ICA, students embark on a journey of cultural exploration, personal growth, support, and friendship.
Both Sishwa and Gaurav emphasize the transformative impact of these communities on their overall experience as international students. The shared love for dance and cultural expression has brought color back into their lives and created a tight-knit support system. As international students, adapting to a new country and academic life comes with its own set of challenges, and while they are not eliminated, organisations like NU Sanskriti and ICA help students navigate these difficulties.
Students, amidst their unique struggles, find comfort in collective experiences. In this shared dance of resilience, international students like Sishwa and Gaurav are not alone; they are part of a diverse, beautiful, and interconnected global community here at Northeastern.
