On September 15, 2024, international students gathered at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandirs in Robbinsville, NJ, and Westborough, MA, for the International Student Shibir themed "Jivan Sutro: The Path to Success." The event aimed to provide crucial guidance and encouragement to students pursuing higher education in the USA.
In Robbinsville, NJ, the event took place in the presence of Pujya Jnanpurushdas Swami, Pujya Chaitanyamurtidas Swami, Pujya Haridarshandas Swami, Pujya Satyanishtadas Swami, Pujya Yogananddas Swami, and Pujya Nirdoshcharitdas Swami. Meanwhile, in Westborough, MA, Pujya Anandcharitdas Swami, Pujya Amrutmangaldas Swami, Pujya Ameypursuhdas Swami, and Pujya Rajendradas Swami guided the attendees. Both gatherings emphasized three fundamental principles for success:
- Niyamit Abhyas: Study regularly
- Niyam-Dharma ni Dradhta: Adhere to daily rituals without exception
- Niyamit Satsang: Engage in spiritual activities regularly
The keynote speech, "Goal: Dream, Plan, Achieve," delivered at both locations, provided invaluable insights into achieving success in personal, academic, and spiritual life. Pujya swamis outlined clear roadmaps for reaching one's goals, enriched with practical examples and strategies to overcome challenges.
The event featured dynamic panel discussions led by professionals from various fields, sharing personal success stories and strategies for balancing academic and spiritual growth. Students actively engaged in interactive sessions focused on improving communication skills and addressing common challenges like social media addiction, time management, immigration hurdles, dietary habits, and financial pressures. Engaging presentations, including skits, videos, and drama, brought the content to life. Workshops also encouraged participants to reduce social media usage by focusing on behavior drivers, improving focus and engagement in their studies and personal development.
Nisarg Prajapati, an incoming freshman at Sacred Heart University, reflected, “The sessions on Abhyas, Niyam Dharma, and Satsang gave me a clear direction on how to balance my academic life with spiritual growth. The practical advice, especially on time management and overcoming challenges, was incredibly valuable. I feel more confident in navigating both my personal and academic journey here in the U.S.”
The Shibir provided international students with the opportunity to gain insights, receive inspiration and guidance, and share experiences, fostering a supportive environment for their academic and spiritual success in the USA.