When Shrochis Karki was growing up in Nepal, he had plenty of chances to watch American television. But the TV images lost all relevance when he arrived at Kenyon in the fall of 2005. "The stereotype of Americans is that they are self-centered, but I found the exact opposite in Gambier," says the 20-year-old member of the Class of 2009. "Everyone at Kenyon was friendly and accommodating. They made me a part of the community. I feel at home here."

Karki is considering a double major in political science and international studies. He's active in model United Nations, and he keeps a close eye on political developments back home in Nepal. But one of his most memorable experiences at Kenyon began in a philosophy course. There was a class discussion of Zell Kravinsky, a wealthy philanthropist who has given away millions of dollars but who garnered some criticism--and sparked some complex philosophical debates-- when he donated his own kidney to help a stranger in need of a transplant.

Karki wondered what motivated Kravinsky, so he wrote him a letter. That led to an externship that allowed Karki to spend a week with Kravinsky in New Jersey and Philadelphia, talking about everything from real estate investment to philosophy. "He's as normal as you or me," Shrochis says. "He leads a very modest life and is dedicated to helping others. He's just a really cool guy."

If Karki enjoys delving into philosophical depths, he also welcomes the chance to scale decidedly physical heights. Before coming to Kenyon, he and some friends did a nine-day trek in the Himalayas, climbing to Base Camp on Mount Everest. Reaching 17,600 feet wasn't easy, but no one got altitude sickness. "It was an amazing experience and really strengthened our friendship," Karki says.

He says much the same thing about Kenyon. The College's Ohio hilltop can't compare to the mountains of home, but the experiences--full of amazement and friendship--are just as heady.