Sai Keerthana Chella, like many students at WSU, has faced financial challenges upon entering college.
Chella is a graduate student majoring in Data Science. For Chella, living on campus used to feel like the ideal way to experience American student life.
She imagined walking to class with friends, studying late into the night and being immersed in the intensity of residence hall life. However, as she estimated the cost, the dream slid out of reach.
"I really wanted to stay on campus with my friends. But when I realized how expensive it was, I had to refuse. I couldn't understand it, even though it would have made my life much easier," Chella said.
She had to deal with the financial constraints that prevent some international and domestic students from living and getting involved on campus.
"I think it takes more planning and money to get involved," Chella said. "I evaluate myself occasionally, wondering whether I'm experiencing the whole thing. My friends who live on campus have access to everything."
Early in her academic career, Chella saw the discrepancy between expectations and reality. At first, she thought living on campus would be feasible for her time at WSU. But instead, she had to manage the expenses of groceries, rent, transit and school supplies while also acclimating to a new nation.
"It is not just the housing fee. There are so many other expenses that come with living here. It all adds up very quickly, " Chella said.
Commuting adds an additional level of complexity for Chella. She has to prepare ahead to attend events, group study sessions or school activities, such as classes.
This includes making travel arrangements, organizing a timetable and allocating extra time just in case. Although Chella frequently has to decide between going to gatherings and remaining home in order to manage her schoolwork, her friends can stroll from their resident halls to activities in a matter of minutes.
"I'm learning to adapt. It is not always easy but I'm doing my best to stay connected and make this place feel like home," Chella said.
Her personal circumstances highlight a broader reality for some WSU students: a student's college experience is influenced by their financial condition. The impact is even more significant for international students who might not have the same access to financial aid or family support.
Chella anticipates that by sharing her experience, people will see that financial difficulties do not take away from a person's dedication or desire to fit in.
"Everyone's journey looks different. This is mine, and I'm learning to make the most of it," Chella said.
