1. WHY USA?

Because of its academic excellence and opportunities to gain hands-on experience through by
addressing real world challenges through internship, capstone projects and collaboration with
industry. As the global leader in education, the USA offers a robust curriculum and advanced
resources in cybersecurity. These will equip me with the skills and knowledge necessary to
contribute to my country's cybersecurity infrastructure upon my return.

2. WHY NOT IN NEPAL?

3. HOW LONG WILL YOU STAY IN USA?

My course duration is of 4 years plus I plan to purse few months of internship for hands on
experience and to learn how they tackle cybersecurity challenges. So my stay there will be
around 5 years. After that I’ll return and contribute to by country working as a chief info security
officer.

4. WHICH UNIVERSITY ARE YOU GOING FOR?

I am going for University of Idaho.

5. WHY THIS UNIVERSITY?

I choose this university of Idaho because of its strong reputation and excellence in STEM
program. And what’s truly impressive is that’s its computer science program is certified for high
standards, so I’ll be getting a quality education there. Plus the university offers many resources
like the state-of-the-art facilities and Center for Secure and Dependable system along with
experienced professors and clubs like Cyber Defense Clubs, It offers the perfect environment for
me to achieve both academic excellence and practical experience.

6. WHAT IS ABET?
It’s a globally recognized organization that accredits the STEM program in college and university
for their high standards.

7. WHICH MAJOR ARE YOU GOING FOR?

I am going to pursue bachelor degree in Computer Science with a specialization in cybersecurity.

8. WHY IS YOUR CONCENTRATION NOT LISTED IN YOUR I-20?

Because many US university including University of Idaho, issue i20 focusing on the main
program of study and the concentration is typically chosen after the start of the program, that’s
why
9. HOW TO COME TO KNOW ABOUT THIS UNVERSITY?
I found this university through a website called radio garden, basically it a website that lets you
listen to the live radios from the world.
Like what happened is, when I was exploring to the
radios, I got connected with a radio from Idaho, called KUOI FM, later found that, it’s actually a
student run station at UoI. That time they were discussing about the event happening at the
university called, I-hack 2024, which really piqued my interest since I was also planning for my
studies in USA. So, I started researching more about the university, and its excellence really
drew me in.

10. WHAT IF YOU CONNECTED WITH OTHER UNIVERSITIES?

While I got to know about some other universities too, but none of them meet the excellence of
University of Idaho.

11. WHICH MAJOR ARE YOU GOING FOR AND WHY THIS MAJOR?
I am going for bachelor in computer science with specialized in cybersecurity.
Because studying Computer Science, It will give me the diverse knowledge in how computer
works, how system software and network operate. Since I want to specialize in cybersecurity, it
will help me in understanding the core problems and develop effective solution.

And,
the main reason to choose cybersecurity
is because, I have realized how insecure we all are in today’s digital world. –like just imagine,
you wake up one day and find that your entire digital identity has been stolen, you bank account
are drained, your personal data is leaked and your privacy / all gone. You know the worst part?
You reach out to authorities for help only to find that, they lack the resource or expertise to
investigate because they are already overwhelmed with other similar cases.
No one want to be in such situation, but it’s the reality of many of us, business and even
governments—especially in Nepal, where awareness, expertise, and infrastructure to
tackle cyberattacks are still developing. That’s why I chose this field: I want to be part of
the solution by becoming a Chief Information Security Officer and addressing such
challenges to create a safer digital environment for everyone.

12. WHAT HAVE YOU PLANNED TO TACKLE THIS?

The diverse knowledge and skills I will gain from the USA will enable me to work as a Chief
Information Security officer in Nepal. With the expertise and experience I acquire, I will be able
to lead the team effectively, implement advanced solutions and strengthen Nepal’s
cybersecurity infrastructure.

13. WHEN DID YOU REALISED WE’RE INSECURE?

It was the time of lockdown, when I was bored sitting all day at home with nothing much to do,
So, I started watching tech tutorials in YouTube. But to my surprise I was able to break into my
own laptop without much knowledge. That’s when I realized, if I can do this, imaging what other
 with bad indentations can do. Plus the constant new of cyberattacks made me more aware of
such challenges.

14. HOW DID YOU MANAGED TO BREAK INTO YOUR LAPTOP?

It was not too complicated, I just used a tool called any desk, which give remote access to
computers, files and pretty much everything. In fact this is the same tool used by the scammers.

15. TELL ME ABOUT YOUR UNIVERSITY IN BRIEF?

UoI is a prestigious and one of the oldest university in the Idaho state. It was established in 1989
with a motto of “A legacy of Leading”. It is a big university spanning 1585 acres in featuring
Collegiate Gothic architectural style. It is known for its excellence in STEM programs. The
campus is vibrant and community is diverse and offers over 200 courses for both undergraduate
and graduate students. The latest program lunched by this University is Heath care program for
graduate.

RANKING: #179 in National Universities

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 79%
GRADUATION RATE (4 years): 41%
Student Faculty ratio: 17:1

16. EXPLAIN YOUR MAJOR?

My major is Computer Science with specialization 4 year bachelor degree. In my fist year, I learn
the basics of Computer, Mathematics, and Hardware Components and in the second and third
year, I will dive deeper into cybersecurity, studying topics like Data Structure, Network Security,
OS, Cryptography and Ethical Hacking. The final year focuses on practical learning through
capstone projects, internships and co-op opportunities, preparing me for real world
applications.

17. Why do you want to study in this State?

Because my university is in this state and is home to top cybersecurity companies like, Idaho
National Laboratory and Micron Technology. Plus the environment here is peaceful and not that
crowded.

18. WHATS THE DURATION OF YOUR COURSE?

Its four years, starting from August 25, 2025 and ending in 10 May , 2030

19. WHATS YOUR FUTURE PLAN?

After graduating from the University of Idaho, I plan to pursue few months of internship with
companies like Micron Technology or Idaho National Laboratory to gain hands-on experience
and learn how leading companies tackle cybersecurity challenges.
After that I’ll return to
Nepal and give the CISSP certification exam. After passing the exam, I’ll work as Chief
 Information Security Officer with the governments National Computer Security Incident
Response Team and safeguard Nepal’s Digital Assets, individuals, and critical infrastructure from
Cyber threats and attacks.

20. INTRODUCE YOURSELF

I am Saugat Sapkota, a .. year old confident and passionate learned with strong interest in
Cybersecurity. I am a son of Mr and Mrs. \ and brother to \. I am a permanent resident of …..,
Sindhupalchok. I completed my high school in 2023 in science background from Himalayan
White House International Secondary School. Talking about my personality, I’m quite an
introvert with a strong hobby of …..

21. DO YOU HAVE ANY PETS?

Yes, I do have a ……

22. WHAT IS YOUR NEAREST AIRPORT FROM YOUR UNIVERSITY

Pullman Moscow Regional Airport – 5 miles away from University
Spokane International Airport – 90 miles

23. TELL ME ABOUT YOUR ACADEMICS

#
24. DID YOU APPLIED TO OTHER UNIVERSITIES?
Yes, I did applied to 3 other universities, Wilkes University, Minnesota State University Mankato
and St. Cloud State University.

25. WHY DID YOU APPLIED TO THREE UNIVERSITIES?

I applied to three universities to test my eligibility and see if I could get accepted. These
universities are also among the best for computer science, so I wanted to challenge myself.

26. WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS DURING YOUR VACCATION THERE?

During vacations, I plan to explore the local attractions like, Shoshone Falls and Hell Cannon. I
will also work on my personal projects, assignments and internships to enhance my skills. During
long vacations, I intend to visit my parents, whenever it’s possible.

27. WHAT IS COMPUTER AND WHAT IS COMPUTER SCIENCE?

Computer is an electronic device that process data, perform task and executes program fed by
the User.

28. WHICH YEAR PASSOUT ARE YOU?

I graduated my high school in 2023 August.

29. WHAT HAVE YOU DONE SINCE?

…..

Did you face any attacks?

 yeah, during my time at antarikshya, I encountered a phsing attack, where the sent us a fame
email to trick staffs into clicking the link and sharing sensitive data. We prevent it by isolating
affected account, resetting passwords and blocking the emails. We also introduced multi factor
authentaication to prevent further attacks.

Tell me about cybersecurity vulnerabilities ?

are the weakness in system software or network that attacker may exploit to gain unauthorized access,
steal data or distrupt servers. Common examples are, outdated software, weak passwors, misconfigured
steeings, pshing attacks. Man in the middle, While user are server are transmitting data, if any
unauthorized person gain access to the data in the middle. Its called Man in the middle.

To prevent
keep system updated, using strong passwords and multi factor authentication, regularly scanning for
vulnerabilities, anitviruses, train users, backup data to prevent data loss, and restrict access to sensitive
information.

what is domain?
is a text based label that identifies a website
what is http and https
it’s a internet protocols, hypertext transfer protocol secure. If the website is not running on https then
don’t visit the website, attacker may gain access

30. How can attcakers attack someone.

31. WHAT WAS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY THERE?

32. DO YOU HAVE ANY SIBLINGS?

33. WHAT IS SHE DOING NOW? WHERE IS SHE?
34. WHY SHOULD I APPROVE YOUR VISA?
Because, I am a passionate and determined student with a clear goal of becoming CISO and
protect Nepal from cyber threats and attacks. Studying in USA will give me the knowledge and
skills I need to achieve this. For that, I need your support, officer. (bow while saying this)

35. WHAT IF I REJECT YOU?

Well, I’m confident in getting approval to study in USA, But even If such thing happens, Dropping
my education or extending a long gap in my education is not an option for me, That’s why I will
either reapply or Pursue my education in other country offering the same quality education like
USA. My goal is clear and I am determined to achieve this, not matter what!

36. WHAT WILL YOU DO IF I APPROVE YOUR VISA?

First I will share the news to my sister, - she is waiting outside for me. Then I will call my parents
and share my experience.

37. WHY LOW GPA?

38. WHO ARE HACKERS?
39. WHAT IS CAPSTONE PROJECTS?

40. HOW ARE YOU GOING TO ADAPT THE CULTURALS DIVERSITY OF THE USA?
As I came from a diverse community with people from different cultures and religion, I am
already familiar with interacting with people from different background. Even if that’s not
enough, I will make friends there in the University, So it won’t take me a long to adapt.

41. WHERE WILL YOU STAY IN THE USA?

I will be staying on-campus. Because it will allow me immerse in campus life, connect with other
students, and use the university resources conveniently and focus on my studies in safe and
supportive environment.

42. HOW OFTEN DO YOU CHOOSE CHATGPT?

43. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME AND WHY YOU USED THAT?
44. OHH, YOU GOT HIGH COA? YOU CANNOT AFFORT IT

45. IF YOU GOT HIGH PAYING JOB IN USA? WILL YOU AFFECT THAT?
I have my own plans and dreams. And the USA already has plenty of expertise and resources to
tackle cybersecurity challenges, But Nepal lacks this expertise. That’s why I won’t take the offer,
instead I’ll return and contribute to my country, where my skills are needed the most.

46. WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS FROM THIS UNIVERSITY?

I expect to gain high quality education there and hands-on experience in the field of
cybersecurity. With the resources like Center for Secure and Dependable Systems and clubs like
CDC, I hope to build skills and grow through collaborating with experts and peers.

47. TO YOU, WHAT IS HIGH QUALITY EDUCATION

That balance both Theory and Practical learning guided by experienced professors and also that
fosters critical thinking and problem solving skills.

48. WHAT CHALLENGES WILL YOU FACE IN USA?

I don’t think I will be facing a lot challenges but I may be facing challenge like Difference in
Education system, like adapting to mere practical and researched based approach.
But I will counter it by actively participating in classes, and collaborating
with professors and peers.

49. ARE YOU TOUCH WITH ANY PROFESSORS?

50. TELL ME ABOUT YOUR STATE?
Idaho state also known as gem state and became the 43rd state of usa in 1890. It is famous for its
stunning landscapes and buety and is one of the top potatoes producer in the world. Th has
many prestigeiuos uni including university of Idaho and organizations lke Idaho national
laboratories. It has many attractions like Shoshone falls, gells cannon and crater of moon
 national monument

51. WHY IN THIS STATE?

52. WHAT IS CYBERSECURITY
53. FIREWALL
54. ETHICAL HACKING
55. ENCRYPTION
56. DECRYPTION
57. DATA BREACH
58. CYBERCRIME
59. COMMON CYBERTHREATS AND THEIR PREVENTION
60. NETWORK SECURITY
61. WHY IS CRYPTOGRAPHY IMPORTANT
62. HOW WILL YOU PROTECT US FROM CYBERTHREATS
63. RANSOMEWARE
64. MALWARE
65. PHISHING
66. WHO WILL FUND FOR YOUR EDUCATION
67. WHAT DO THEY DO
68. HOW MANY EMPLOYEES WORK THERE
69. HOW MANY ROOMS AND TOILET ARE THERE?
70. WHAT DID YOU STUDIES IN HIGH SCHOOL?
71. WHY LOW GPA IN MATH?
72. HAVE YOU GIVEN ANY EPT TEST?
73. WHAT WAS THE SCORE?
74. WHY LOW SCORES?
75. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVOURITE SUBJECTS?
76. WHAT DID YOU STUDIED THERE?
77. How long did you wait for this interview?
78.

Who I am talking to?

I’m Saugat Sapkota.

What is the meaning of your first name?

Its gift/present officer.

What have you bought today for us?

Myself officer, A passionate and intelligent student.

What is the meaning of your second name?

Did you give any EPT test.?

Yes, I have given IELTS exam.
And how much did you score?
I’ve scored an overall 6.5 with no individual band less than 6.

Why low score?

Officer, I gave my IELTS almost 2 years ago. Back then, I wasn’t really confident and didn’t have
much exposure beyond my studies. Plus, I had to take the computer-based test instead of the
paper-based one, which I had practiced for. Even though the content was similar, I wasn’t
familiar with its format, functionalities, or system, which made me nervous and less focused.
But I have the skills in me, and I’m confident that if I take the exam again, I can easily score 7–8
bands overall.

So, why didn’t you gave exam again?

Because, I found this is acceptable score and there’s still validity left. But most importantly, I
know I have the talent and skills in me, so I didn’t consider re-taking the exam.

Who signed your I-20?

Kathleen Gallenthine, International student adviser.
I got my deferred I-20 on November 2nd. I think

What’s the most interesting part of your job?

The most amazing part of my job was witnessing the energy and enthusiasm of fresher’s. Their unique
and creative approaches to problem-solving truly impressed me and often inspired me to think
differently.

VO: Sorry, I am not approving you visa.

Me: Fine, officer. I will pursue my education in another country and will make sure, one day my name is
will be printed in the books for my achievements. With my success, you’ll realize your mistake in not
approving my study permit one day. Thank you officer, for filling me with tons of motivation to succeed.

Me: Would you like to reconsider your decision?

VO: Okay, I’m approving your visa.

Me: Thank you officer, I promise I won’t disappoint you. I’ll work hard, achieve my goals, and make a
positive impact through my education, I will gain from USA.