Geneva Nodland
Animal Core Coordinator, North Dakota State University
Hello, my name is Shashi, I am an active learner and have a gifted analytical mind. I came to Fargo in 2019 for my graduate studies at North Dakota State University. I graduated with a PhD in Biosystem Engineering last year and am now working in the field of Pancreatic Cancer Research. My job at NDSU has allowed me to connect with many individuals who are achievers who want to bring change in the world.
The moment I came to Fargo, I explored the possibility of helping the community. Initially, I worked with the Great Plains Food Bank and then Feed My Starving Children voluntarily to support their noble cause. I am actively involved in regional and national science fairs. It’s my fourth year where I serve as a judge and evaluate kid’s school science projects.
I am a people person and love to connect, share, and grow. I love long walks, hiking, and photography. Currently, I am brushing up on my cooking skills as I am a foody. I love to cook and share with family and friends.
Why be an Icebreaker?
“I believe in the Butterfly Effect. The world is a complex system where even a small thing or act can have non-linear impacts. I want to reach out to people and support them in their journey so that we build a neighborhood that believes in mutual growth and has the feeling of connectedness. I found the Icebreaker program unique and felt it connected with my idea of community, so I chose to participate.” – Shashi Bhushan
Shashi’s typical day in Fargo…
You want to relax?
Long walk around the downtown, or a movie at Marcus Theatre.
Coffee and/or breakfast?
Twenty Below Coffee Co., Starbucks, Caribou. I am getting herbal tea or caramel espresso.
Mid-morning break?
Thrift store or Best Buy. See what people are selling, and what’s new in the market. New configuration of laptops and devices.
Need creative juices flowing?
In my house. I dedicate a room for meditation and regard it as my mental palace, so I mostly use this space.
It’s lunchtime and you’re hungry.
Mostly, I go to NDSU Memorial Union as well as the dining center. But, If I have some extra hours I go to Passage to India, HuHot, or KFC. I love Indian and Chinese.
Afternoon pick-me-up?
I would go to the food court in West Acres Mall. First, I’d eat and have a hot coffee, and after that, I’d spend some time at Best Buy to observe new electronic devices.
It’s early evening, the sun is out?
I will go downtown to The Silver Lining Creamery and have a vanilla ice cream! This is my favorite place and I think they are the best in town.
You need to blow off steam?
I will go to the wellness center at NDSU and use the sauna and Jacuzzi.
The dinner bell is ringing?
Spitfire and Denny’s are good choices.
Late in the evening, but you can’t sit at home?
Late at night, the downtown area is good. I will go for a short photography trip!
Uh oh, your sweet tooth is kicking in! You’ve got the late-night munchies?
Insomnia cookies in downtown!
Did You Know?
Fargo Fresh stocks foods from India, Nepal, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. This specialty grocery store provides everything from unique spices and halal meats to fresh produce and traditional snacks. Swing by Fargo Fresh for a unique shopping experience that brings a world of flavors to your neighborhood!
Shashi’s Top 10 can’t-miss things in the FM area!
In no particular order…
- Ice cream at The Silver Lining Creamery
- Friday night in downtown
- Lunch at Passage to India
- Grocery shopping at Fargo Fresh
- Movie night at Marcus Cinema
- Buy electronics at Best Buy
- Aquatics at NDSU main campus
- Herbal tea at Twenty Below Coffee Co.
- Cowboy Jacks for Friday night DJ
- Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
24 Hrs in Fargo – Shashi’s Quick Recs
Where are you going for local food?
A food truck in downtown, Passage to India, or West Acres food court. They serve quality food with a sense of belongingness!
Where are you going for local shopping?
Downtown Fargo and West Acres mall. You can find almost everything that one is looking for.
Where are you going for local nature?
I love parks. From my place, the nearest is Trollwood Park. It is peaceful, clean, and safe.
Where are you going for local community spaces?
The NDSU main campus is a great place to start. It has a wellness center, food court, and space to sit comfortably and chat, connect, and collaborate.
Where are you going for local networking?
Brewhalla. This place provides [space for] people to come and join in innovative talks and start-up pitches.
Q&A with Icebreaker Shashi
Q: What and why do you enjoy living, working, and playing here?
A: No traffic. From one end to another end of Fargo, it doesn’t take more than 20 minutes. The streets are safe, cops are friendly, and the neighborhood is very welcoming
Q: What is on your “Fargo-Moorhead Bucket List?” What haven’t you done or where haven’t you been that you’d like to go?
A: North Dakota Renaissance Fair and the Farmer’s Market.
Q: If you moved here from somewhere else—what was your perception of this area before? And, how has that developed or changed since living here?
A: I read a lot about Fargo before I came here. The biggest challenge was cold. I came from a tropical country—India, and haven’t seen snow before. I was also worried about the living space and clothes. Eventually, I got settled and all of my questions were answered by my academic adviser. Now, Fargo feels like home!
