Rooted in tradition, driven by purpose: Nepali student pursues nursing to honor family

(EDITOR’S NOTE: This feature is part of a lineup of nursing-themed stories in the Erie Times-News annual “Nurses Week” publication. The national observance is May 6-12.)

In Nepali culture, family is the cornerstone of life, and elders hold a revered place in it. This deep sense of duty and respect guides Mercyhurst University nursing student Goma Kuikel, 21, whose life decisions remain rooted in her ancestral homeland despite spending most of her life as a citizen of the United States.

Goma and her multi-generational family—her mother, Dahn Maya Kuikel, and younger sisters Ayusha, Arpana, and Aryana—moved to Erie in 2023, settling into an eastside apartment. As the family’s primary breadwinner, Goma balances her first semester in Mercyhurst’s Associate of Science in Nursing program with a demanding job as a patient care technician at Saint Vincent Hospital, working two 12-hour shifts on weekends. Her education is partially funded through Allegheny Health Network’s (AHN) Talent Acquisition Program (TAP), which provides financial aid and mentorship to aspiring healthcare professionals.

Though her schedule is grueling, Goma never complains. Instead, she sees it as fulfilling a greater purpose.

“I am living my mother’s dream,” she said, beaming with joy. “She wanted to be a doctor or a nurse, but it didn’t work out. Now, I’m doing it for her.”

Goma’s aspirations extend beyond her own success. In line with Nepali values that emphasize collectivism over individualism, she hopes to specialize in geriatric nursing—a decision shaped by her experience caring for her grandfather when he fell ill.

“I like older people, and I want to give them support and care,” she said.

Her passion aligns with a growing national need. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to rise from 58 million in 2022 to 82 million by 2050, making up nearly a quarter of the population. Healthcare experts warn that this shift underscores an urgent demand for more professionals trained in geriatric care.

Despite the challenges, Goma credits Mercyhurst with helping her navigate her rigorous schedule, providing mentors, tutors, and resources that support her academic journey.

Her ultimate dream? To buy a house for her family—something they have never had since immigrating to the U.S.

“I want to give them a home,” she said. “A place that’s ours.”

PHOTO: This family picture features, left to right: Aryana, Dhan Maya Kuikel, Arpana, Ayusha, Goma, and Grandpa.