Kumal Devi (’26)

Quick Facts

Program: Nursing, BSN
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Haryana, India

Background

I moved to the United States at 19 years old, having rarely left my small village of Sakra. In India, school runs Monday through Saturday, from about 7 or 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. When you get home, you’re so exhausted. I’d take a nap, do homework, some household chores and go to sleep. Growing up, I went to many family events and weddings, where I’d eat and dance with my brother, Anurag, aunt and cousins.

Why CBU?

My appreciation for nursing came from caring for my depressed mother after my father’s death. I regularly administered medication and cooked meals for her. It’s such a pure emotion to want to help people when they can’t help themselves.

I wanted to study nursing, whether in the United States or India. After some searching, it was my husband, Sandeep Taya, who found CBU.

CBU Experience

In India, I had so many relatives and I knew all my neighbors, but when I first came here, I didn’t know anyone. My husband couldn’t move to Riverside until my second year at the university, so despite being introverted, I made it a point to befriend those around me, such as my friend from Gujarat, India. We went to the International Center together and events like Woo Fest. I relied on the center to give me community and support. I’m also grateful for nursing professors who prepared me for a career, while including faith into every aspect.

Career Plans

My time in Riverside convinced me to apply for jobs in California following graduation. I’m going to take the NCLEX exam, get my license, then hopefully obtain employment that meets Optional Practice Training eligibility requirements.

Advice to Prospective Students

Include faith in everything you do. It’s easy to be overwhelmed by classes and everything that’s happening around you. But you can just say, God, I cannot handle it. It's up to You. You have to help me with everything. I cannot do it by myself. Just have faith and leave everything to him. It is OK to be overwhelmed. Have faith in God, have faith in yourself and you’ll do great.