Being away from home while chasing my tech dreams in Kathmandu? Easily one of the toughest things I’ve done right up there with pretending I actually understand half of the code I write! The excitement of learning and growing in the tech community is great and all, but the loneliness? It sneaks up on you. I miss the little things my mom’s warm hugs (and her ability to magically know when I’m not eating well), my dad’s advice (even when it’s disguised as a 30-minute life lesson), and my brother’s laughter. No amount of chiya from Baneshwor or wandering around Patan Durbar Square trying to be deep and reflective can fill that void. I’ve tried turns out even historical monuments don’t offer emotional support!

Kathmandu is alive, always buzzing with people chasing their own dreams, especially in places like Newroad. But even in these busy areas, I often feel like an outsider, far from the comfort of home. Nights spent studying in my room feel heavy, not just because of the workload, but because of the memories I’m missing mom’s cooking, family conversations, the warmth of home.

Yet, my parents have been my rock. They’ve always supported my decision to pursue tech, even though it meant leaving home. Their belief in me pushes me forward, but it also brings pressure pressure to succeed, to prove that the sacrifices we’ve all made are worth it. Sometimes that weight feels unbearable, especially when I’m sitting at Patan Multiple Campus, knowing I’m miles away from the people I love.

But I remind myself why I’m here. Every tough moment, every lonely night, is part of the journey toward something bigger. Kathmandu, with its chaos and challenges, is shaping me into who I’m meant to be. And though I miss home more than words can say, I know that this journey is worth it. I’m not just doing this for me, I’m doing it for my family, for the dreams we all share.

So, if you’re feeling the same whether you’re dodging traffic on Maitighar or people watching at Jawalakhel, missing home—just know, you’re not alone. We’re all out here trying to figure out life, missing mom’s cooking while pretending instant noodles are a legit meal. We’re all in this together, building something for ourselves and the people we love. One day, we’ll head back home, with big dreams in one hand and probably some momo in the other :)