ABCDs with Joshita Aleti

Season 2, Episode 2 of ABCDs is a reflective solo episode! Join me as I dive into the ups and downs of my freshman and sophomore years at Purdue. From navigating a socially isolated COVID freshman year to finding my footing socially and academically sophomore year, I’ll share how these early college years shaped me. Expect some candid reflections, lessons learned, and stories about figuring out friendships, tackling new academic challenges, and the little things that made these years unforgettable. It's personal, unfiltered, and all about the journey.

Starting college from behind a screen was anything but normal. In this episode, we dive into the online side of freshman year, where Zoom calls and virtual hangouts became our “campus.” From making friends through DMs to late-night group chats for homework help, we navigated connections in ways we’d never expected. It was a world of virtual study sessions and creative ways to stay close, even from afar.

In this episode, we dive into the world of jugaad—India’s signature style of creative problem-solving and resourceful innovation. Alongside these ingenious fixes, we also explore the superstitions that shape daily life in surprising ways. Our guests share personal experiences with jugaad, from rural hacks to urban adaptations, while also delving into cultural beliefs that influence everything from sports rituals to music performances.

In this episode, we explore the journeys of two individuals who spent their early years in India and later ventured abroad. With preconceived notions shaped by media and culture, we discuss how reality met expectation and what it means to find balance between two different worlds.Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive deeper into their personal stories of cultural identity, adaptation, and much more!

In this episode of ABCDs - American Born Confused Desi, we’re stirring the pot on all the wild stereotypes about Indian food. Is everything just curry? Can we really handle the spice? Expect plenty of laughs, ridiculous food stories, and some seriously fun yapping as we roast these clichés and dish out the real flavors of Indian cuisine. Grab a snack and get ready for some spicy banter!

Ready to crash an Indian wedding, but not sure how to dodge all the auntie questions? In this hilarious episode of the season Indian Stereotypes, we’re spilling the tea on how to survive and thrive at Indian events! Whether it’s mastering the perfect head nod at family functions or figuring out when to actually show up to a party, we’ve got you covered. Expect funny stories, relatable moments, and tips to make you the life of the party (or at least avoid becoming the hot topic of gossip). Heads up: No video this week due to some camera drama, but the audio’s packed with all the fun you need!

Episode 1: Beyond Medicine and EngineeringIn this debut episode of "ABCD - American Born Confused Desi," we break down the stereotype that Indians primarily pursue careers in medicine or engineering. Joined by two close friends—one an aerospace engineer and the other a pharmacist—we'll dive into personal stories, explore alternative career paths, and discuss the pressures and expectations placed on Indian-American youth. We'll also reflect on how these stereotypes impact career choices and what it means to forge a unique path. Tune in for an engaging conversation that goes beyond the traditional career molds.