Current Student Spotlight: Nepal
My name is Bijay Regmi, and I am a Global UGRAD exchange student studying at North Central College (NCC) in Naperville, Illinois. During my spring break, I had the awesome opportunity to participate in a service trip to Loveland, Colorado through the NCC Breakaway program. Coming from Nepal, where community involvement is deeply valued, I was eager to experience how service projects function in the United States. This trip allowed me to complete my community service requirement while immersing myself in American culture beyond the classroom.
Our group partnered with Habitat for Humanity, an organization dedicated to providing safe and affordable housing for those in need. On the first day, we visited the Habitat for Humanity store, which sells household items at affordable prices to support their mission. I helped with organizing and cleaning the store, gaining insight into how such initiatives contribute to community welfare. It was inspiring to see how small efforts could make a big impact on people’s lives.
The next two days were dedicated to hands-on service, where we actively participated in home-building projects. We installed doors in newly constructed homes, worked with various tools like drills and saws, and engaged in carpentry, timbering, and painting. One of the most inspiring aspects was working alongside elderly American volunteers who dedicated their time and energy to helping others. Their commitment to service left a lasting impression on me, showing that community work transcends age and background. Additionally, we shared meals with the homeowners, hearing their stories and learning how Habitat for Humanity had transformed their lives. Witnessing their gratitude reinforced my belief in the power of collective effort to bring positive change.
Beyond volunteering, we also explored Colorado’s stunning natural landscapes. Visiting the Rocky Mountains and Rocky Mountain National Park was a memorable experience, as those snowy mountains and frozen lakes reminded me of the Himalayas back home in Nepal. Hiking through the trails, I felt a deep connection to nature and appreciated the breathtaking beauty of the region. Another highlight was hiking along the Devil’s Backbone trail near Loveland and seeing the Keyhole, a naturally-formed rock arch, which offered breathtaking views and unforgettable moments. As part of our trip, we also visited the Loveland Museum, where I gained a deeper understanding of Colorado’s history and its artistic representations of love.
This trip was more than just a volunteering experience—it was a journey of cultural exchange, personal growth, and meaningful connections. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to a cause that aligns with my passion for community service and development while exploring a beautiful part of the United States. The friendships and memories I made during this trip will stay with me for a lifetime.