Fisk House Voices & Reflections

Fisk House is a cooperative residence for women graduate students enrolled at BU that is supported & maintained by the BU Women’s Guild and administered by Residence Life. Some of the amazing residents that live there shared their reflections with us.

Profile photo of Sanaz BagheriSanaz Bagheri

MFA in Theatre Production Management
Class of 2026


Tell us about your experience at Fisk House.

Getting admitted to Fisk House was truly one of life’s miracles for me. As an international student, this opportunity not only made it possible for me to come to the U.S. but also helped me afford my living expenses.

I arrived at Fisk House straight from the airport, and the moment I stepped inside, I thought, Oh my God, I love this house! It immediately felt like home, and I knew I was incredibly lucky to be living in such a beautiful building with such wonderful people as neighbors.

Now, in my second year here, I feel grateful every single day for being part of this warm, respectful, and supportive community. Living at Fisk House has allowed me to form invaluable friendships with people from different cultures—some, like me, who are far from home, and others who are American. This experience has helped me adjust to my new life, giving me a broader perspective on how beautiful humanity is in all its diversity.


Profile photo of Purnima SainaniPurnima Sainani

Doctorate of Dental Medicine
Graduating class of 2028


Tell us about your experiences in the Fisk House.

When I first moved into Fisk House in July 2024, it was my first time living alone in a different country at just 21 years old. I was excited but also a little nervous about adjusting to this new chapter of my life. However, from the moment I stepped into Fisk House, I felt a deep sense of community and belonging. The incredible women in the house quickly became my first friends in Boston, and the friendships I formed over the summer have stuck with me. They helped me adjust to my new environment, showed me around the city, and created a support system that made the transition feel seamless. Some of us still have study hangouts, go on walks together, and share meals or tea, making Fisk House feel like a true home. More than anything, I am grateful to Fisk House and the Boston University Women’s Guild for giving me a roof over my head so that I can pursue my dream of becoming a dentist. Knowing I have a safe and welcoming place to live has allowed me to focus entirely on my studies, and I cannot overstate how much this has meant to me.


Profile photo of HannahSophie

DMA candidate in the Music Education program at the College of Fine Arts 
Graduation candidate for May 2026


Tell us about your experiences in the Fisk House.

I arrived at Fisk House in September 2024 as I was about to enter into a transitional period in my time at BU. I was finished with my coursework and most of my cohort would be leaving campus to work full time while they work on their dissertations and I was apprehensive about feeling lonely as an international student. Thankfully, at Fisk House, I have found a wonderful community filled with women who make me feel like I have a community of support. I enjoy late-night chats with my roommate and passionate discussions about anything and everything over dinner with other housemates.


Profile photo of GracieGracie Anderson

Occupational Therapy
Graduation Candidate for Summer 2026


Tell us about your experiences in the Fisk House.

Living at Fisk House has been a wonderful opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. The kindness and warmth of everyone here have made my grad school experience feel more supportive and uplifting. I’ve always appreciated community living, and I’m grateful for the meaningful friendships I’ve been able to build here.


Profile photo of HannahHannah Mefferd

Masters in international affairs with a focus in diplomacy
Graduation candidate for May 2026


Tell us about your experiences in the Fisk House.

I have loved my time in Fisk House so far. When I got into Boston University one of my first thoughts was, “How am I going to afford to live here?”. I come from a rural city in Tennessee where most people don’t leave for an undergraduate education, let alone a master’s degree. When Fisk House was presented as an option it felt like it was possible for me to achieve my dreams and move to Boston. The women I have met at Fisk House are some of the smartest and kindest people I know. I will always think so fondly of our conversations in the kitchen and laughter with my roommate.


Profile photo of Jennifer Jennifer Madu

Public Health
Graduation candidate for May 2026


Tell us about your experiences in the Fisk House.

Living in the Fisk House has been a comforting, trusting, and safe experience for me. It feels like a second home, providing a sense of security and belonging. The diversity and sisterhood within the house have been incredibly supportive, helping me navigate tough times and easing any worries I may have.