From Kolkata to Princeton

My journey at Princeton started under a gloomy 4 a.m. sky after a grueling 30-plus hour red-eye flight. Confused and a bit nervous, while searching for the Dinky train – a connecting train to the University and New Jersey Transit, I met Nic, who quickly became my first friend at Princeton. Thanks to Nic, settling into Princeton was easier than expected. He guided me to Public Safety, helped with my luggage, and even took me to lunch at a Chinese restaurant which brought back fond memories of my days in Taiwan, where I completed my master’s degree.

Gradually I found my rhythm, although sometimes I found myself nostalgic for Taiwan and for home in India. I wondered whether I could find similar companionship here. Yet, the stunning beauty of Princeton’s campus and the warmth of its people soon captivated me. Along with Nic, I met incredible friends like Viola, Ana, and Yigit, and before long, the students, staff and the faculty became an integral part of my life.

Adapting to a new country always involves understanding its culture. I come from India, where there are diverse cultures across different states, and studied in Taiwan, where I had to grow accustomed to new cultural norms and language. With these experiences, I expected the transition to the United States to be straightforward. Yet, it took some time to get used to the simple fact that a common “how are you?” could be more of a greeting than a genuine inquiry. Despite these small challenges, my experience settling down in the United States has been relatively easy — thanks to the supportive community at Princeton.

Living in the Graduate College means frequent trips to the Engineering Quadrangle, often through Tiger Transit. That was where I met one of the most jovial people I have yet encountered, the bus driver. We quickly struck up a friendship, and he would often share tips on secret spots perfect for practicing my driving. Another highlight of being in the Graduate College is the Procter Dining Hall; not just for the good food, but also, and most importantly, for the kind and fun-loving staff. A memorable initiative was the “Recipes from Home.” I had the chance to cook chicken biryani as one of the meal dishes for dinner, which was my first time venturing behind the scenes into the bustling kitchen where the dedicated staff work tirelessly to make sure the students are well fed after a long day.

When asked, “why Princeton?” I responded, “why not?”

The community here comprises some of the smartest, most humble and kindest people I have ever met. I always call the Imaging and Analysis Center (IAC) my second home, thanks to the friendly support of all staff and Professor Nan, including during after-hours. The IAC even offers couches, which are a blessing when working late at night. If you are ever concerned about catching an early Sunday morning flight from the John F. Kennedy Airport in Queens, New York, don’t worry, someone would definitely help you get there on time. One of my cohort mates,  Sam, once sacrificed his precious weekend sleep to drive me to JFK during finals week. The bonding among the cohort mates is unparalleled to anywhere else; from helping each other to organizing happy hours, the entire cohort unites.

My experience at Princeton has been deeply enriching, not only professionally but also personally. My advisor, Craig B. Arnold, and lab mates like Marco and Shu, have fostered a safe, diverse and healthy community, making every challenge result in reward.