Krishna Kasera, a native of Lucknow and a student at BITS Pilani’s Goa campus, died by suicide recently in his hostel room. A probe is currently underway. Just days before his death, Krishna had spoken with student counsellors on campus.
Arjun Harmalkar, Chief Manager of Public Relations at BITS Pilani, shared, “Krishna was a dual degree student pursuing an MSc in Chemistry and a BE in Electronics and Instrumentation. Mental health is still not talked about enough, but it’s something everyone struggles with in some form. Details of sessions remain confidential and are only shared with a nominated individual, or the head of the institution if intervention is deemed necessary.”
With many students relocating from different parts of the country to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Goa, the challenges of living away from home—combined with academic pressure—can weigh heavily. While hostel life provides a shared space, students often face emotional isolation. Yet, there is a silver lining. One positive aspect is that students tend to quickly build friendships with their classmates. That initial support system can make a big difference in helping them cope.
Moving to Goa for academic opportunities
Students often come from states like Bihar, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana, to study in Goa while completing their undergraduate degrees and postgraduate studies.
“A majority of students opt for university hostels due to budget constraints. Not everyone can afford to rent privately, so they rely on hostel facilities. The most common concerns we hear are about hostel conditions and food,” says Dhruv.
But students often feel comfortable enough to share these issues, especially when they have a good rapport with their teachers. The university ensures that mental health support is available. “We do have university counsellors and make sure students know where to go if they need help. We pass on the message that there is always someone available to talk,” says Dhruv.
When Goa becomes a second home
When Sudhir Kumar arrived in Goa from Bihar to pursue a BA in Portuguese, he wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Initially, the quiet environment felt a little boring, but the natural beauty of the campus quickly won him over. Interested in studying a foreign language, he explored options at universities in Delhi such as JNU and DU, but a conversation in Delhi led him to discover Goa. Once in Goa, he slowly began to build a new support system. Although he made only a few close friends, their kindness made a significant difference.
“My friends here are very supportive. Some even bring me homemade food. I’ve been to their houses and had Goan fish curry and chicken curry. I never really felt homesick because of them.”
He adds that the professors at Goa University played a key role in his positive experience. “The faculty is very friendly. Some of my teachers give great advice and always make time to listen. One piece of advice at the right time can go a long way,” he said. Now, he’s applied for the Master’s program in Portuguese at the same university and plans to return in June for revision. Having explored places like Vasco and Margao, Goa has become much more than just a place to study.
Finding lasting friendships
Vivek Saini from Haryana, spent three years studying in Goa and is now back home looking for job opportunities. “My uncle, who was also my senior at the University, suggested I take up a course in Goa. Knowing he was here made the transition easier. If I ever missed home, I could always talk to him.”
“Ros omelette became a favourite. Before leaving, I made sure to eat it one last time,” he recalls with a smile. Despite being in a new state, the student says he never struggled with language or social barriers. “People here are friendly, especially your classmates. It was easy to talk to them and make friends. Language was never a problem.” Now, as he looks back on his time in Goa, he’s grateful for the memories, friendships, and support that helped him grow far from home.
Helping outstation students settle in
Vaishali Kerkar has been a student counsellor at Government College, Sanquelim for the past three years. One student from Kerala, had initially struggled with homesickness, sharing a rented room near the college with a classmate. “The biggest challenges are often language barriers and adjusting to food. Still, many adapt with time, especially if they’re focused on their studies.”
Students who are deeply dedicated to their education tend to stay immersed in academics, which reduces the space for homesickness. However, personal stress, isolation, and mental health issues still surface. “Teachers often refer students to me when they notice signs of sadness or withdrawal. Some even accompany the students, creating a safe space for them to open up,” she says.
Vaishali observes that many students rely heavily on AI tools like ChatGPT—even for simple communication. “Some students feel inferior in class because of economic disparities. They compare themselves to peers from better financial backgrounds and develop self-doubt. The good thing is that students are opening up, whether it’s to me or to teachers they trust,” she adds.