The Pehli Peedi Fellowship presents the first in a series of stories highlighting the experiences of first-generation students across India.
Nandani Badgotra Devi, a first-generation learner from Jammu, embodies resilience and quiet determination. With her parents’ unwavering support, she became the first in her family to step out of her hometown in pursuit of higher education. Her journey reflects both the struggles and triumphs of navigating an unfamiliar academic world while staying true to her roots. Nandani’s story is one of courage, belonging, and the transformative power of education.
“Believe in yourself, even when it feels like the world is questioning your place.”
Read her full story below. Profile by Deepa.
Deepa: Nandani, thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. To start, could you tell me a little about where you grew up, your family background, and what education looked like in your early years?
Nandani: I’m from Jammu, a city known for its scenic beauty and cultural diversity. Growing up there was a mix of traditional values and slowly expanding modern perspectives. Ours was a close-knit community where everyone knew each other’s lives, and while resources were limited, there was a warmth and resilience in the way we lived. I attended a private school, which meant access to English-medium education and extracurricular activities, but the academic pressure was intense.
My father, an ex-serviceman, completed high school, and my mother, a homemaker, finished her schooling but could not pursue higher education. Even so, she has always encouraged me to study further and aim higher. Education was taken seriously in my family—especially by my father—but in the wider community, girls’ education often came second. Moving away from home for studies was considered bold, sometimes even unnecessary.
Deepa: What role has caste played in your life and education?
Nandani: I belong to the General category, but I’ve never resonated with the caste system. I believe it creates unnecessary divisions in society. While I understand its historical role in shaping social structures, I feel that in today’s world it can still unfairly influence opportunities and perceptions. I prefer to be seen for my values, my work, and my effort, rather than any caste identity.
Deepa: Did you always know you would go to college? What was that journey like?
Nandani: Yes, it was always certain, thanks to my father’s belief that education could transform my life. He was my biggest inspiration, pushing me to dream bigger than my circumstances. But the journey was full of hurdles—financial strain, societal expectations, limited career guidance, and the emotional weight of being the first in my family to leave home for studies.
I prepared for CUET entirely through self-study because I believed I could manage my learning best on my own. I didn’t attend coaching; instead, I relied on online resources and YouTube lectures. I had dreamt of studying at Delhi University, but due to delayed CUET results, I missed that chance.
My parents’ unwavering support made all the difference. Even when relatives and neighbors questioned the point of sending a girl away for higher education, my parents refused to be swayed. That faith gave me the confidence to focus on my goals rather than the doubts around me.
Deepa: How has your university experience been so far—both academically and socially?
Nandani: It has been eye-opening and transformative, but not without its challenges. I’ve met people from diverse cultural backgrounds, which has broadened my perspective. But adjusting to the academic pace while battling imposter syndrome was tough in the beginning. I had imagined university to be a more inclusive and supportive space, but in reality, you have to carve out your own place and constantly prove yourself. Students from backgrounds like mine often face invisible barriers in classrooms—hesitating to speak up in discussions because of language gaps or lack of confidence.
My Hindi accent and less “polished” English made me self-conscious at first, and socially, I sometimes felt out of place, especially in conversations about expensive hobbies or foreign travel. Over time, I’ve learned to embrace my identity, realizing that my lived experience is just as valid and valuable as anyone else’s.
Deepa: Has your background shaped the way you’ve navigated university life?
Nandani: Definitely. Coming from a modest background means constantly feeling the need to prove yourself, not just academically but socially. There’s also the double burden of studying and trying to “fit in” with peers who may not understand the challenges you carry. I’ve faced subtle biases—comments about how I speak English or about the simplicity of my clothes.
They’re not always malicious, but they remind you of the social gaps. At the same time, my background has given me resilience. I’m more determined to work hard because I know what my education means to my family.
Deepa: What has helped you build a sense of belonging here?
Nandani: My hostel has been a lifeline. Living with other students from somewhat similar backgrounds has created a small but strong support network. We share our struggles and celebrate each other’s wins, and that makes the journey less lonely. I’ve also been fortunate to find a mentor in one of my professors, who understands the challenges of being a first-gen student, and a senior who guides me through academic and career decisions. These relationships have been vital in helping me navigate an unfamiliar system.
Deepa: How do you manage stress and academic pressure?
Nandani: I’ve developed a routine that balances study with self-care. I journal regularly to process my thoughts, practice mindfulness, and take mental breaks when I feel overwhelmed. I’ve learned to reach out for help—whether to friends, faculty, or the counseling services offered on campus. These small practices have helped me keep going even during tough times.
Deepa: Let’s talk about the practical side—how do you finance your education?
Nandani: My education is funded through a mix of scholarship support and contributions from my family. My parents have made sacrifices to make this possible, and I’m deeply aware of the effort it takes for them. That knowledge is a constant motivator to make the most of this opportunity and give back in the future. At the same time, I’m actively looking for paid internships so I can cover some of my daily expenses myself. Even small earnings from such opportunities would give me a sense of independence and reduce the burden on my family.
Deepa: What were your goals when you started university, and have they changed?
Nandani: Initially, my only goal was to graduate and make my family proud. Now, I want to pursue a Master’s in Organizational Psychology and eventually work in HR or policy-making, focusing on creating inclusive workplaces. I’ve realized that representation matters, and I want to be part of systems that welcome diversity rather than merely tolerate it.
Deepa: What does success look like to you now?
Nandani: Success means being financially independent, mentally at peace, and serving as an example for other students like me. It’s not just about my career—it’s about being able to look back and know that I’ve made it easier for someone else to follow a similar path.
Deepa: Have there been moments when you questioned your place here?
Nandani: Yes, there have been times when I felt like I didn’t belong—especially when my grades dipped or when I couldn’t connect with peers’ experiences. But I stayed because I know I represent more than just myself. Every step I take forward is not only for me but for the younger students who might look at my journey and believe they can do it too.
Deepa: What have you discovered about yourself through this journey?
Nandani: I’ve realized I’m far more resilient than I gave myself credit for. In the beginning, I doubted whether I could handle university life, especially away from home. But each challenge I’ve overcome has shown me that I’m capable of adapting, learning, and thriving in spaces that once felt intimidating.
Deepa: And what advice would you give to other first-generation students?
Nandani: Believe in yourself, even when it feels like the world is questioning your place. Seek help when you need it and don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s—you’re starting from a different place, and that’s okay. If I could change one thing about higher education, it would be to make it truly inclusive—financially, socially, and culturally. Mentorship is the most important thing a first-gen student can have: someone who believes in you and helps you navigate systems you don’t yet understand can change your path entirely.
Deepa: Thank you for sharing your story, Nandani.
Nandani: Thank you, Deepa. Talking about my journey has reminded me of how far I’ve come and how much further I want to go.
This is an ongoing series of profiles documenting the experiences of young people across India. Stay tuned for more stories from first-generation students across India. Follow us on social media for more updates.