Sagar Chapagain
CCBC 2015 Graduate
President’s Distinguished Graduate Award recipient
“I believe you make your own limitations. When you push yourself, you can work miracles.”
Born in Nepal, Sagar Chapagain came to the United States in 2011 and enrolled at CCBC in 2012. As a first-generation college student, he found it challenging to learn the culture, adjust to the language and navigate the American educational system. But, his determination far outweighed any challenges he faced.
“In the beginning, I would describe my CCBC experience as an uphill walk,” said Sagar. “The first year was very difficult until I encountered Phi Theta Kappa and the Honors program. I became actively involved as an officer and met with many students like me with diverse cultures and educational backgrounds.”
As time progressed, Sagar not only thrived, he excelled. While working full-time, he managed to take a full course load, remain involved in campus activities and maintain a 4.0 GPA. For his dedication, he received the President’s Distinguished Graduate Award.
This spring, Sagar graduated from CCBC with two degrees -- an Associate of Science and an Associate of Arts. He is the recipient of the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship worth up to $40,000 which he will use when he enters Cornell University in the fall. His ultimate career goal is to become a cardiothoracic surgeon.
“I believe you make your own limitations,” expressed Sagar. “When you push yourself, you can work miracles.”