Florida State University freshman Aashutosh Pokharel’s journey from the Himalayas to Tallahassee is a story of academic pursuit, resilience and cultural exploration.
As the only undergraduate student from Nepal on FSU’s campus, his discovery of the university was serendipitous. While studying fundamental particles in physics, Pokharel learned about Paul Dirac, the renowned physicist who earned a Nobel Prize in 1933 for his contributions to atomic theory.
Known as the “father of modern physics,” Dirac accepted an appointment at FSU in 1972 after retiring from his position at Cambridge University in England. Dirac continued active research, teaching and travel through his appointment at FSU up until his death in 1984.
FSU’s connection to Dirac stayed in Pokharel’s mind when he started applying to colleges in the U.S. After learning more about FSU’s rich scientific legacy and high caliber of academics, he was inspired to pursue his undergraduate studies at Florida State.
“Studying in a different country has been eye opening for me,” said Pokharel, who is pursuing a degree in chemical-materials engineering at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. “Along with the top-class academics, I have learned several new life lessons that I could not get back home.”
Pokharel cherishes his memories of community festivals back in Nepal and the mountainous scenery of his country, some of the things he misses while living in the United States. Despite this, Pokharel holds onto his Nepali identity through the Nepalese Student Association at FSU, which celebrates Nepali festivals like Dashain, Tihar and the Nepali New Year.
“Growing up in Patan, I was always a part of the several community festivals (jatras) that occurred,” Pokharel said. “Enjoying these festivals is something I miss here in the U.S. Additionally, living in Florida makes me miss the beautiful mountainous scenery of my country.”
Homesickness aside, Pokharel has embraced life at FSU, volunteering on EngageTLH trips with FSU’s Center for Leadership & Service and making use of available resources on campus. While it’s not hiking in the Kathmandu Valley, Pokharel has found similar fulfillment participating in recreational activities at FSU’s Lakefront Park and Retreat Center.
He’s also been a participant in the Center for Global Engagement’s Global Ambassadors Program (GAP), which gives international students and visiting scholars at FSU the opportunity to engage in speaking opportunities throughout Tallahassee and present to community organizations, K-12 students and FSU students, faculty and staff. This year, Pokharel gave presentations at Pineview Elementary School and at Maclay School’s World Language and Culture Festival.
“Most people don’t know anything about Nepal,” Pokharel said. “The best way for me to help others recognize my country is by using Mount Everest. I explain to the people that Nepal is a small yet beautiful country that is between India and China.”
Looking ahead, Pokharel believes his experience at FSU will greatly impact his career choices. After completing his studies at FSU, he plans to pursue a Ph.D. in chemical engineering.
“As a result of studying abroad, I’ve been able to identify the minute differences in teaching and learning techniques that vary from place to place,” he said. “I believe I have adjusted well to these differences, and I am now confident in my ability to excel in academics no matter where I go.”
