Bigyan Bista '07

Biology and Mathematics major

Bista, a native of Nepal, is a Presidential and Schuh Scholar.

How did you first learn of SPC?

I went to a Jesuit high school, St. Xavier's Campus, in Kathmandu, Nepal. My guidance counselor, Fr. Larry Brooks, told me about Saint Peter's and the location. A Presidential Scholarship made my pursuit of further studies in the United States possible.

What are some of the differences you encountered between Nepal and the United States?

I had never been to the United States before arriving at SPC. I was 18,000 miles away from home and had difficulties with food, language and the culture for the first couple of weeks. Thanks to the supportive college community, my transition was smooth.

Describe your experiences here at Saint Peter's.

SPC is my home in the United States. I find myself very fortunate to have extremely supportive faculty and friendly classmates. I have tried to give my best and make the most out of my four years here. In addition to academics, I have been involved in quite a few activities, including student senate. I am vice-president of Pi Mu Epsilon (Math Honor Society), a member of Tri-Beta (Biology Honor Society) and a mentor with the Emerging Leaders Program. I also tutor students in sciences and mathematics. I am assisting Dr. Len Sciorra with a brand new imaging facility on campus that will allow biology students to conduct cutting-edge scientific research at SPC.

Is it a comfort to have other students from your country here?

Yes. There are nine Nepalese on campus now, including seven from St. Xavier's. It is always fun to get together, cook Nepalese cuisine and talk about home. New York has a big Nepalese population and I was not surprised to find Nepalese restaurants scattered around New York.

What were some of your internships?

In 2005, I worked in Park City, Utah as an undergraduate participant in Mathematical Biology sponsored by Park City Mathematics Institute and the Institute for Advanced Study. I attended lectures by prominent scholars. Last summer as part of the Schuh Scholars Program, I went to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and participated in the Summer Program in Neuroscience (SPIN) sponsored by UAB's medical school and the National Science Foundation. Apart from spending countless hours in the lab, I attended weekly seminars where leaders in neurobiology briefed us on the latest advancements. I presented my summer findings at the university-wide poster session and won a prize. I realized that passion and patience are keys to being an outstanding scientist. The experience prepared me to devote my life to scientific exploration.

What are your plans after graduation?

I will take a year off before going to graduate school for neuroscience. In the meantime, I want to have some experience in an industry, such as pharmaceuticals or biotech.

What would you tell prospective students about SPC?

The diversity here is such that there is no feeling of isolation. Classes are interesting and challenging at the same time. There are many academic programs to choose from and the number of interdisciplinary programs increases every year. To the prospective students from Nepal, I would say that you have a chance to excel academically and to engage in multitude of activities. Manhattan is a 15- minute commute and has everything to offer.