The life struggles Keshari Kharka '16 witnessed and the support she received when she came to the United States motivated her to spend her life helping others. "I love this country and so appreciate all of the kindness, support, and opportunities shown to me when I arrived here. Being part of a system that not only accepts you, but also provides opportunity to fulfill your dreams is a blessing."
Kharka's parents grew up in the country of Bhutan which is located in south-central Asia. When they were forced to leave in 1992, they landed in a refugee camp in Nepal which is where Kharka was born and raised. At age 15, she came to the U.S.
She entered Syracuse's Henninger High School with very limited English language skills. She took English as a Second Language courses and quickly learned how to get by. "There were many times when I was in the lunch line, I would watch what the person in front of me ordered and ask for the same thing so I wouldn't expose myself!"
As the oldest of four siblings, and with parents who had no formal education, Kharka became the primary interpreter for her family. That dynamic also played a role in her continuing desire to help others.
After receiving her diploma from Henninger, Kharka came to Onondaga Community College. The support she received on campus played a significant role in her development. "Between the professors, my advisors in EOP (Educational Opportunity Program) and CSTEP (Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program), it was more of the family atmosphere I needed. OCC gave me the attention and awareness I needed to become more of a well-rounded person when I transferred."
After completing her associate degree Kharka continued on to Le Moyne College, then Binghamton University for her master's degree in Social Work. Her professional journey helping others began at Hillside Family Agencies where she worked as a care manager, and also served as a legal and medical interpreter.
For the last two years Kharka has worked at SUNY Upstate Medical University as a Licensed Social Worker. She helps people in the hospital's emergency room, ensuring those with language barriers have the necessary care and guidance they need. She loves helping others, but admits it takes a toll on her. "There are durations of struggle that occur because of the amount of pain and suffering you see on a day-to-day basis."
When she's not at work she keeps herself centered and healthy by cooking, cleaning, taking dance classes, burning scented candles, and writing poetry in her native language.
