Opening Doorz

By Purva Kashyap | Opening Doorz Editorial | September 02, 2024

Opening Doorz to Purva Kashyap, her story of moving to the United States of America and her perspective on migration. Anyone planning to make a move out of India can take something out of Purva Kashyap’s story and #StoriesFromOutOfIndia.

We at Opening Doorz are making an effort to help you in making an informed decision (through stories like these) if you are one of those who are looking to making that move.

From India to America: Purva Kashyap’s Story

Moving from India to another country is no small feat, and adapting to new environments, cultures, and people can be even more challenging. For Purva Kashyap, now a retired occupational therapist, this transition was met with enthusiasm.

Having spent over two decades in India and over thirty years in the United States, Purva has witnessed significant growth and change in both nations. She pursued her studies in occupational therapy at the Institute for the Physically Handicapped, affiliated with Delhi University, and later completed her Master’s degree in Rehabilitation from Bombay (now Mumbai). At 23, she made a career move to the United States in the early nineties.

Purva’s journey took an interesting turn when she met her future husband through her parents, five years after moving to the U.S. They married in Hawaii in 1998. Her husband works as a business consultant in Information Technology.

Although Purva did not pursue further studies in the US, she made a substantial impact in the healthcare field, working primarily in hospitals. She spent 22 years at Valley Hospital in New Jersey and has worked with various health and travel companies across the US for over five years. For the past year-and-a-half, she has been involved in home health care.

Purva and her husband have two daughters, aged 21 and 18, who are currently studying at the University of Wisconsin—one majoring in finance and the other on a pre-law track.

Excerpts:

When did you first decide you wanted to move out of India?

I graduated from college in 1991, and as soon as I graduated, I knew I wanted to explore the world beyond India. Seeing my friends embark on adventures abroad, I was inspired to follow suit. After much deliberation and planning, I moved to the United States in 1993.

How were the initial years? Did you find the place welcoming, or were you missing India?

The initial years were a whirlwind of emotions. While I missed the familiar comforts of home, the excitement of exploring a new country and building a life from scratch far outweighed the homesickness. I vividly remember missing home-cooked food and my own home. Despite the initial challenges of adjusting to a different language and culture, the warmth and kindness of the people I encountered made my transition much easier. It was a truly unforgettable adventure, one that shaped me into the person I am today.

In the initial years, how did you manage to keep in touch with friends and family back in India, given that mobile phones (and other modes of communication) were not very common in those times?

Back in 1993, we were not exposed to mobile phones and other modes of communication. So, it was extremely tough to keep in touch with everyone back home. We had to talk via landlines at the agreed time. Telephonic communication was exorbitant in those times. Eventually, the price was reduced to Rupees 17 from Rupees 30. And of course, communication was facilitated by the occasional letters and emails, but that was a time-consuming process. Gradually things got better once all of us started owning mobile phones.

Initially, what did you miss most about India?

Being so far away from home for the first time, I felt excitement and apprehension. The novelty of living in a new country quickly wore off, and I was soon pining for the familiar comforts of India. The lack of reliable communication made it difficult to stay connected with my loved ones, exacerbating my homesickness. Even today, I occasionally find myself missing their warmth and presence. One thing I’ve never been able to replicate in the United States is the taste of my mother’s cooking. There’s something special about the love and care that goes into a home-cooked meal; it’s an experience I cherish.

How would you rate the quality of life in the United States, as opposed to that in India?

The quality of life is better in the States. The neighbourhoods are cleaner and safer. You have more independence and plenty of opportunities to do whatever you wish, education or career-wise, no matter your age. Along with this, the infrastructure in the US is also way better. Don’t get me wrong, there is indeed no place like home, and I will always cherish my Indian roots. However, the United States offered a different life altogether. It gave me the chance to spread my wings and explore my potential, beyond the constraints that living in India had at that time. My working life was good; I never faced discrimination at work. I was also able to maintain work-life balance and flexibility which I would not have been able to if I was in India.

Why did you decide on the US and not New Zealand, Australia, or Canada?

At the time, the USA had better job opportunities and the salary was much better, as compared to other countries. Also, career growth in the US was better.

Would you recommend the United States of America to anyone contemplating a move?

Absolutely! The United States offers ample opportunities for those seeking a fresh start or a new adventure. However, it’s important to be realistic about the challenges that may arise. Moving to a new country requires a significant amount of preparation, both academically and professionally. It’s essential to have a clear plan and the necessary skills to succeed in your chosen field. Additionally, life in the United States can be fast-paced and competitive, so it’s important to be independent and self-motivated. If you’re up for the challenge and are willing to put in the hard work, the rewards can be immense. You have to have the drive to succeed.

What are the minus points of living in the US?

One of the most significant downsides of living in the United States is the distance from family and friends. Being away from your support system can be emotionally challenging, especially during difficult times. The lack of familiar faces and cultural touchstones can also contribute to isolation and homesickness. While technology has made it easier to stay connected, it can never fully replace the comfort of physical presence. Your sense of security is taken away when you are living in a different country all by yourself.

Apart from the US, which other country would you recommend for a shift, for those planning to move abroad?

I believe that happiness ultimately comes from within, the choice of country can certainly play a role in shaping one’s overall experience. As long as you are happy where you live, I don’t believe the country matters. It is all about one’s mindset. Ultimately, the best country for you depends on individual preferences, goals, and lifestyle.

What should students or families who want to migrate to a foreign country keep in mind before making the shift?

I would advise them to move for the right reasons. One has to be prepared to work hard and keep an open mind. One has to be prepared for the sacrifices and leaving the comforts of their home. You cannot live in two places at the same time. You must be happy where you are, only then will you be successful.

Also Read: Moving to the United States of America is every IT professional’s dream!

Also Read: Reeva Kulkarni… stepping out of paradise!