Bhutanese Connection with Karma

Transcript

Here at UTEP, many students are from right here in El Paso. Meet Karma. She grew up almost as far away from UTEP as you can get, the kingdom of Bhutan. What’s more? UTEP has a special relationship with that far away country. Karma, tell us about what it’s like to be a UTEP student coming from the other side of the world. Take it away.

– Thank you for the introduction, Alex. As an international student from Bhutan, a small country in Asia near Nepal, I chose UTEP for its renowned Nursing program and its beautiful Bhutanese architecture, which reminds me of my homeland. I feel like I belong here. The supportive Bhutanese student community here adds to the feeling of familiarity. Starting out as an international student and being naturally introverted, making friends at the beginning was quite a challenge. However, navigating my journey became easier because everyone was incredibly friendly, helpful, and welcoming. In addition to my studies, I also work as a Student Assistant in the Office of International Programs where my wonderful coworkers and I strive to make everyone feel welcome. I am an active member of Bhutanese Student Association, which celebrates and share our culture with the UTEP community. UTEP and Bhutan have had a special connection for more than a hundred years. Each year, during the third week of April, we host a week long event called Bhutan Days to showcase our rich culture to the students and faculty. And several traditional Bhutanese dishes are always included at the popular International Food Fair each fall. Coming to UTEP has been one of the best decision I’ve ever made. Since arriving, I have grown in responsibilities and independence. Meeting people from diverse spectrum and experiencing so much has broadened my perspective in ways I never could have imagined back at my home country. I hope you’re enjoying UTEP’s beautiful, Bhutan inspired campus Alex. It’s one of a kind. Back to you.

– That’s great Karma. Even though you’re tens of thousands of miles away from your own country, you feel right at home at UTEP and that feeling goes way beyond this campus’s incredible architecture. Thank you for sharing the story of your journey to UTEP. That was incredible.