Being an immigrant means leaving your entire world behind to pursue what’s best for your family. For children, it means growing up too soon, taking on responsibilities far beyond their years, and navigating the challenges of finding their place in a new and unfamiliar world. It means being the bearer of your family’s hopes and dreams, a role that is both a privilege and a heavy responsibility. For me, being an immigrant has been emotionally and mentally straining, but it has also shaped me in ways that I wouldn’t trade for anything. It has taught me resilience, gratitude, and the value of opportunity. I come from Nepal, a country known for its stunning landscapes but also marked by limited resources and opportunities, especially for women. Growing up, I had a passion for astronomy. I loved looking up at the night sky, wondering about the stars and planets, but I also knew my dreams were out of reach in a place where women in STEM faced immense cultural and societal barriers. My family’s decision to immigrate to the United States was a leap of faith—a chance to rewrite our futures. Arriving in America, I quickly realized how much I had to catch up on. Everything felt overwhelming, from the language barriers to adapting to an entirely new way of life. At the same time, I felt a profound sense of gratitude. For the first time, I had access to resources that made my dreams feel achievable—libraries full of books on science, schools with technology and teachers who encouraged curiosity, and the chance to participate in STEM programs. These opportunities weren’t just a gift; they were the result of my parents’ sacrifices and hard work, which motivate me to this day. Immigrating wasn’t without its challenges. I often felt isolated, caught between two identities—one rooted in the traditions of my homeland and the other shaped by the independence of American culture. However, this duality has taught me to navigate different worlds and appreciate the strengths of both. Nepal taught me the importance of community and perseverance in the face of adversity, while the U.S. has shown me the power of individual ambition and determination. Together, these lessons have molded me into someone who values hard work, gratitude, and the importance of giving back. This journey has profoundly influenced my life and career choices. The hardships I faced growing up instilled in me a determination to succeed, not just for myself but for my family and the countless young girls in Nepal who dream of breaking barriers. My passion for astronomy has grown into a clear goal: to pursue a career in STEM and contribute to advancing our understanding of the universe. As a woman and an immigrant, I want to inspire others to believe that with determination and opportunity, even the biggest dreams can become reality. Whenever I feel discouraged, I remind myself of how far I’ve come and how much I have gained through my journey. Being an immigrant has its share of struggles, but it has also given me a unique perspective on life. It has taught me to appreciate opportunities that many take for granted and to work tirelessly to achieve my goals. To me, being an immigrant means carrying the dreams of those who came before me while paving the way for those who will come after. It means growing up early but also growing stronger. Most importantly, it means embracing the challenges and opportunities that come with building a new life and striving to make the most of it every day.

I am drawn to astronomy because it exists at the intersection of wonder and precision. It is a field where the infinite becomes tangible—where humanity dares to ask questions about the origins of the universe, the possibility of life beyond Earth, and our place in the cosmos. My fascination began with childhood stargazing sessions, lying in the grass and marvelling at the Milky Way stretching overhead. Over time, this awe evolved into a hunger to understand not just what we see in the night sky, but the mechanisms and mysteries that lie beneath it. Astronomy appeals to me because it is inherently multidisciplinary, weaving together physics, mathematics, chemistry, and technology to tackle some of the most profound questions imaginable. I am particularly fascinated by the study of exoplanets, a frontier where science and imagination converge. These distant worlds challenge us to expand our definition of “home” and to consider the possibilities of life in forms we have yet to conceive. The process of piecing together faint signals from distant stars to unveil the secrets of alien worlds is nothing short of thrilling to me. In 10 years, I envision myself as a leading researcher in planetary science, specializing in the atmospheres and compositions of exoplanets. My ideal role would combine theoretical modelling with observational work using advanced space telescopes and ground-based arrays. I would thrive in a position where I could analyze the chemical fingerprints of distant worlds, searching for biosignatures and understanding the conditions that make planets habitable. This work, I hope, would contribute to answering one of humanity’s oldest questions: Are we alone in the universe? Beyond research, I imagine my career encompassing collaboration and mentorship. I want to work with diverse, international teams, contributing to ambitious projects that unite the global scientific community. I also dream of serving as a mentor to students and young scientists, fostering their curiosity and helping them navigate the challenges of academic research. Outreach would also be a key component of my career. Communicating the beauty and relevance of astronomy to the public—whether through writing, speaking, or hosting stargazing events—would allow me to share my passion and inspire others to look up and wonder. Astronomy represents, to me, the ultimate intellectual adventure. It challenges us to confront the unknown, to explore without guarantee of an answer, and to revel in the discoveries we make along the way. I am eager to dedicate my life to this pursuit, driven by a curiosity that knows no bounds and a deep desire to contribute to humanity’s understanding of the cosmos.

In a universe where stitches weave together the fabric of creativity, and stars embroider the cosmos with brilliance, I have found my passion at the fascinating crossroads of sewing and astrophysics. Like a cosmic dance, these seemingly disparate interests have merged to form a symphony of understanding that highlights the beauty of art, science, and math. Just as my sewing ideas embark on a nocturnal marathon, sprinting through my mind's runway, astrophysical concepts dash through the corridors of my imagination, fueled by curiosity. Much like my unconventional approach to sewing, where I forego meticulous patterns for a more intuitive design process, my exploration of the universe starts with a vague silhouette of an idea. Instead of measuring and calculating, I embrace the uncertainty, weaving together celestial narratives without rigid boundaries. As a seamstress, my love for sewing is rooted in turning visions into tangible realities. Conversely, my passion for astrophysics is fueled by the desire to unravel the mysteries of the universe to make sense of it. Whether I'm coaxing fabric through a sewing machine or analyzing astronomical data, I'm drawn to the process of creation and discovery, each stitch representing a piece of the puzzle that contributes to a larger, intricate whole. In sewing, I've learned that embracing imperfections can lead to unexpected beauty. Just as my patterns evolve organically, the universe defies predictability, presenting phenomena that challenge our understanding. One such challenge is the Great Filter, a concept I encountered through Kurzgesagt's video. This notion, while unsettling, mirrors the unpredictable nature of sewing—an unexpected snag in the fabric that forces a creative twist, resulting in a distinctive masterpiece. In the tapestry of astrophysics, statistics act as the loom on which we weave our understanding. Much like sewing patterns that provide structure, statistics unveil patterns and trends in astronomical phenomena, guiding us through the intricate threads of the cosmos. These threads, both in sewing and astrophysics, illustrate that while a straightforward path exists, it's often the detours that lead to innovation and growth. Kode with Klossy and Girls Who Code, radiant stars in my educational voyage, bridged the realms of technology and art. These platforms showcased the fusion of creativity and innovation, inspiring me to view technology as a canvas for diverse expression. These experiences cultivated inclusivity and reinforced the belief that technology can be woven with the threads of artistry, enriching the mosaic of cultures. Guided by the GeoFORCE program at UT Austin, my educational North Star for the past five years, I've learned the power of community support. This journey and my own experience as a Nepali living in the most remote parts of the country have kindled my resolve to amplify voices from remote communities, bridging the gap between science and the underserved. As conversations about underrepresented groups gain momentum, I aspire to be a bridge between these communities and the opportunities that STEM affords. In this cosmic dance of sewing and astrophysics, I've discovered that true beauty resides in the synergy of creativity and inquiry. The convergence of these disciplines has taught me to embrace imperfections, navigate uncertainties, and recognize the interplay between art, science, and math. Just as my stitches create garments, and celestial phenomena shape galaxies, the fusion of sewing and astrophysics has shaped me, stitching together a passion that reaches for the stars while remaining grounded in the artistry of creation.

As I reflect upon my journey thus far, it is impossible to detach my identity from the circumstances that have shaped me. Dance was once my refuge, a source of joy and accomplishment until life took an unexpected turn at the tender age of six. The departure of my father and the severe injury to my mother propelled me into a role I never imagined – that of a caretaker for my family, including my infant brother. These challenging circumstances unveiled the harsh realities of our financial struggles, igniting a fervent determination within me to ensure my family's future security. For a decade, I assumed responsibilities beyond my years, a role I fulfilled with unwavering resolve. Even when my father returned and we embarked on a new life in the United States, the shadows of adversity continued to linger. It was during these trials that I encountered a photograph that would alter my perspective forever. Gazing at the image of my younger self, I realized that my quest to fulfill familial needs had led me away from nurturing my own aspirations. I vowed to rediscover my identity and embrace the dual journey of self-growth and familial support. Returning to dance, I found solace in movement, embracing both my past and present self with newfound kindness. This journey of rediscovery has rekindled not only my passion for dance but also astrophysics. My fascination with the universe was ignited hen I was 11, by a video on the Great Filter, a concept that weaves the fabric of rarity and uncertainty through the cosmos. This profound realization that our understanding of the universe is a dance between the known and the unknown spurred my interest in astrophysics and mathematics. The inexorable link between astrophysics and statistics captivates my imagination. Just as statistics attempt to unveil patterns in everyday life, they endeavor to unravel the mysteries of our universe. My choice to major in physics with a minor in mathematics is a manifestation of my desire to harmonize these two disciplines. A Ph.D. in astrophysics stands as the next step in my journey, a pivotal milestone enabling me to contribute to the field of astronomy while nurturing the dreams of aspiring women of color. The prospect of conducting research in high-energy astrophysics at institutions such as CERN holds an allure that propels me forward. My future aspirations remain tethered to uncharted realms of knowledge. The mysteries surrounding the gravitational dynamics of interstellar bodies and their implications on the universe's expansion fuel my determination to propel the boundaries of human understanding. As I continue my research journey, these enigmas beckon me with the allure of untamed frontiers. I recognize that my path will be fraught with challenges and uncertainties, mirroring the cosmic dance of existence itself. Yet, with unwavering tenacity and an insatiable hunger for discovery, I am poised to venture forth. In profound gratitude, I express how this scholarship stands as a transformative force in my journey. Coming from a humble background, where financial constraints have often cast shadows over my aspirations, this support holds immeasurable significance. As an international student unable to access conventional aid, your generosity is a beacon of hope, allowing me to transcend barriers and pursue my passion. With this scholarship, you are not merely facilitating my education; you are empowering a fervent pursuit of knowledge that transcends borders and financial constraints. I am truly grateful for this opportunity, as it reinforces my resolve to make the most of every academic endeavor, ensuring that your investment in me ripples far beyond the classroom, ultimately shaping the universe of possibilities.

Nestled beneath the Swiss-French border, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) emerges as a beacon of technological wonder, inviting us to delve into the mysteries of the cosmos. Situated at CERN in Geneva, this monumental creation transcends its physical form, igniting inspiration for a better world. As an aspiring astrophysicist with a fervent focus on the enigmatic realms of dark matter and black holes, the LHC's revolutionary impact acts as a driving force behind my passion and unveils technology's immense potential for global betterment. At the heart of the LHC lies humanity's gateway to the origins of the universe. Through the intricate dance of superconducting magnets and potent particle beams, it masterfully reenacts the primordial moments that followed the colossal event known as the Big Bang. This bold endeavor resonates deeply with my personal quest to explore the profound mysteries of dark matter and black holes, as if the LHC itself is a key that unlocks the universe's deepest secrets. A cornerstone of the LHC's success is the spirit of collaboration. Scientists, engineers, and researchers hailing from diverse backgrounds converge at this modern marvel, embodying the unity necessary for humanity to achieve monumental discoveries. This collaborative spirit serves as a guiding light for my own aspirations. It is a poignant reminder that the unraveling of cosmic enigmas requires the harmonious symphony of global cooperation, transcending geographical boundaries for a common purpose that transcends our individual endeavors. In a manner reminiscent of the LHC's processing of petabytes of data generated by particle collisions, my journey in the field of astrophysics underscores the importance of innovative data analysis. In a world driven by technology, the role of managing and making sense of complex datasets is paramount. This symbiotic relationship between data and discovery promises a better world, advancing our insights and understanding of the universe's intricacies. Beyond its status as a scientific marvel, the Large Hadron Collider is a wellspring of inspiration that nourishes the spirits of dreamers and thinkers alike. Its unwavering pursuit of knowledge, collaborative ethos, data-driven approach, and transformative discoveries fuel my chosen path. Just as the LHC propels humanity into an era of enlightenment, I am determined to wield the power of technology to unveil the hidden facets of the universe, playing a part in creating a brighter world for all.

Taylor Swift's music has been a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals, transcending the boundaries of age, gender, and background. As I reflect on her transformative Eras Tour, I find a profound connection between her journey and my own discovery of resilience, empowerment, and determination. Through her unwavering commitment to her artistry, her defiance in the face of adversity, and her consistent support for those around her, Taylor Swift's influence has illuminated new facets of my identity and my journey as a woman in a male-dominated field. One of the remarkable aspects of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour is her sheer resilience. Performing frequently is a demanding feat, requiring not only physical stamina but also mental fortitude. As I grapple with the challenges of my own profession as a woman in physics, a field historically dominated by men, I draw strength from her ability to embrace challenges and perform flawlessly on stage. Her unyielding dedication resonates deeply, reminding me that perseverance in the face of obstacles is not only possible but necessary for success. Beyond her remarkable performances, the impact of Taylor Swift's tour on the music industry cannot be understated. Amid the legal turmoil surrounding her master recordings, her decision to re-record her earlier albums reflects her determination to regain control over her own artistic legacy. This act of reclamation speaks volumes about her resilience and refusal to succumb to adversity. Her actions have broader implications, underscoring the importance of artists asserting their rights in an industry that often exploits their creative output. In a gesture that exemplifies her generosity and appreciation for her team, Swift's gift of $100,000 to each of her truck drivers highlights her recognition of the collective effort that fuels her success. This act of kindness is a testament to her character, demonstrating her commitment to uplifting those around her. This resonates deeply with me as a woman in a male-dominated field, where camaraderie and support among peers can be crucial in navigating challenges and shattering barriers. Taylor Swift's Eras Tour set numerous records, not only in terms of revenue but also in breaking gender barriers. Being the first woman to headline at the Allegiant Stadium marked a monumental achievement in an industry that often marginalizes female artists. Her accomplishments signify her trailblazing spirit, reminding me that carving out space for women in traditionally male-dominated spaces is an essential step toward progress. Swift's legal battle against her former record label manager, who displayed blatant sexism, showcases her fierce advocacy for herself and for women as a whole. This resonates profoundly with my experiences in physics, where the gender gap persists. Her refusal to be silenced, her determination to confront injustice, and her ability to effect change illustrate the strength that women can wield when they stand united against discrimination. As a woman in physics, Taylor Swift's journey becomes an even more poignant source of inspiration. Her Eras Tour showcases her resilience, defiance, and generosity, all of which mirror the qualities required to thrive in a male-dominated field. Swift's ability to navigate challenges, reclaim her narrative, and champion the rights of artists and women alike speaks to her tenacity and unyielding spirit. Her story encourages me to push boundaries, embrace my own resilience, and continue striving for success in the face of adversity. Just as Taylor Swift has redefined the music industry's landscape, her influence empowers me to redefine my own narrative as a woman in the world of physics.

Throughout our lives, we encounter various individuals who leave a profound impact on our personalities, perspectives, and actions. Among these, some individuals are not just our educators but also mentors who inspire us to do great things in life. For me, one such person is my physics teacher, who played a pivotal role in shaping my outlook on women's empowerment in astronomy and astrophysics. During high school, I had the opportunity to be part of an astronomy club that my physics teacher, Ms. Wakefield, moderated. She was passionate about astronomy and astrophysics and always encouraged her students to pursue their interests in these fields. However, what stood out about her was her advocacy for women's inclusion in these male-dominated fields. She not only taught us about the contributions of women scientists and astronomers but also provided us with opportunities to learn from and work with women in the field. Ms. Wakefield's passion for gender equality was not limited to her classroom. I was fortunate enough to have her as a teacher and mentor, which inspired me to take on a leadership role in the astronomy club when I became its president. As the president of the astronomy club, I was determined to make it a more inclusive space for women. Ms. Wakefield's passion and dedication toward women's empowerment in this field inspired me to adopt a similar approach. I wanted to create an environment where every member, regardless of their gender, felt comfortable and encouraged to participate in activities and discussions. I believed that an inclusive space would not only benefit women but also enhance the learning experience of all members by bringing diverse perspectives to the table. To achieve this goal, I introduced several changes to the club's structure and activities. Firstly, I encouraged more female students to join the club and take on leadership positions. I believed that having more women in leadership roles would not only inspire other women to participate but also provide a sense of representation to those who felt underrepresented in the field. Secondly, I made sure that our club's activities and discussions were gender-inclusive and did not promote any stereotypes or biases. We emphasized the contributions of women scientists and astronomers and encouraged discussions about the challenges they faced in the field. Finally, I organized several workshops and talks in collaboration with female scientists and astronomers to provide our members with opportunities to learn from their experiences and perspectives. These initiatives not only helped us create an inclusive space for women in astronomy and astrophysics but also enhanced our understanding of the field by bringing diverse perspectives to the table. Looking back, I realize that my actions as the president of the astronomy club were a direct result of the inspiration and lessons I learned from Ms. Wakefield. Her passion for women's empowerment in astronomy and astrophysics taught me the importance of creating an inclusive space for women and promoting gender equality in male-dominated fields. Her dedication to creating opportunities for women in these fields inspired me to take on a leadership role and create similar opportunities for my peers.