Kranti Budhathoki is a graduating student from Kathmandu, Nepal. He is completing a degree in Business, and has been involved with many campus activities, including PLUS team, Associated Students of Western Oregon University, and working for WOU’s Strategic Communications and Marketing.

What has your experience been like as an international student?
I loved being here at Western. It was really great. Oregonians always embraced and loved me as their own, especially here at Western Oregon University.

Why did you choose WOU?
First of all, I wanted to start from a small campus and learn about the culture as I have a long way of education goals.

What has been your favorite annual event at WOU?
I think all of the events were great for me because my job as a student employee in Strategic Communications and Marketing was to cover videos for most of the events that were happening on campus. But Homecoming and Casino Nights are my favorite.

What have some of your extracurriculars been?
Haha. I think I worked a lot of jobs here at Western. Strategic Communications and Marketing as a News Flash team was my first one which I ended up working until my last day as a student. I really want to give a shoutout to Lisa Catto. She was my supervisor, as she was the first person to hire me in the west and has helped me grow in the social media aspect. I also worked as an Academic Excellence Showcase Student Representative. I was also a PLUS Team member and Director of Business and Finance [for ASWOU]. I was very active in international clubs where I made a lot of friends. I got to learn different cultures, traditions, and backgrounds which was very interesting for me. I think jobs and other activities and events in this campus have helped me gain confidence, sharpen my leadership skill and help me grow in many aspects of life.

Do you have any advice for current and prospective students?
Get active and manage your time well. Make friends, get good grades, party, workout, explore, love what you do. This is the golden time.

What is your favorite building on campus?
Health and Wellness Center. I think health should always be the top priority in life.

What will you miss the most about WOU?
Strategic Communication and Marketing Department. Health and Wellness Center too.

What has been your biggest achievement, success or accomplishment in college?
I think I was very fortunate to receive Outstanding International Student. I am also graduating with Cum Laude. Being selected for all the above jobs that are mentioned above because all the jobs were exactly what I love to do. I also gained lots of friends/family.

What do you know now that you wish you knew your first term in college?
Rate my professor.

What are your plans for after graduation?
Find a job that I will love doing while simultaneously looking for graduate schools for international relations.