When Mukesh Khati arrived at Missouri State University in fall 2024, he came prepared for academic challenges. However, a quieter, more personal need quickly emerged.

Though Nepali students were present on campus, there wasn’t a shared space to bring them together. No central platform, no organized community. For Khati, that absence stood out immediately.

Mukesh Khati celebrates Dashain in the U.S. before founding NSA.

“You’re in a new country, and in your first semester especially, you don’t really know anyone.”

That experience became the starting point for something bigger.

From Medicine to Public Health

Before coming to the U.S., Khati had already built a career in healthcare. After earning his medical degree in the Philippines, he spent nearly six years practicing at Devi Kalika Medical Hall in Nepal. His work, particularly in community and rural health settings, shaped his long-term goals.

He chose to pursue a Master of Public Health to expand his impact and move into leadership roles within nonprofits and international organizations.

“I wanted to experience a global standard of higher education,” he said, explaining his decision to study in the United States.

Among his options, Missouri State stood out for its affordability, strong public health program and practical, real-world approach to learning.

Building the Nepalese Student Association

Khati’s early experiences at Missouri State led to the creation of the Nepalese Student Association (NSA). With support from advisor Dr. Raju Mainali, he worked to establish a community that would bring Nepali students together while also sharing their culture with others.

His vision was simple: create a space where students could feel at home.

“We can celebrate our festivals together and also invite others to learn about our culture,” Khati said.

“At the same time, we want to support each other in adjusting to life here.”

In March 2026, NSA hosted its first event, an informal gathering centered around tea, conversation, and Nepali food. The event brought together students, faculty, and members of other cultural organizations.

Attendees at NSA’s Chiya Guff gather for Nepali tea, food, and cultural exchange.

A Growing Community

What started as a small initiative quickly gained momentum.

On April 19 2026, NSA hosted a Nepali New Year celebration that drew around 100 attendees. The turnout reflected both the enthusiasm of the campus community and the dedication of NSA members.

Today, the organization includes more than 40 students across undergraduate and graduate programs. Rather than requiring formal registration, NSA embraces an inclusive approach, meaning any student from Nepal is considered part of the community.

The executive team reflects that same diversity, with members from both graduate and undergraduate levels. Leadership includes Vice President Milan Bashyal, Treasurer Mansa Aryal, and General Secretary Bona Dhital. The broader board is made up of Abhi Giri, Sushan Adhikari, Maya Kaucha, Apekshya Paudel, and Madhusudan Ghimire.

Executive board members of the Nepalese Student Association pose for a group photo.

Looking Ahead

Khati envisions NSA as more than just a cultural group. While collaborations with international and South Asian student organizations are ongoing, he hopes to expand partnerships across campus with student government and programming bodies.

“We want to grow this into something that’s not just for Nepali students, but for everyone to feel welcome.”

Beyond campus, Khati’s goals remain rooted in public health. After graduation, he plans to work on family planning and maternal-child health initiatives, building on his experience in rural healthcare.

His journey, from practicing medicine in Nepal to building a student community in Missouri, reflects a consistent theme: creating meaningful impact wherever he goes.

The Marketing Department recognizes Mukesh Khati for his leadership and contributions to building community at Missouri State University.