As back-to-school season approaches, Agnibarna and Maira share a conversation they had earlier this year, in the middle of midterms. They acknowledge that they are not in the conventional/stereotypical university programs their cultures expect of them and as a result, they've definitely gotten their share of side glances! But what actually makes a good degree, and what makes someone “intelligent”? Coconuts are often caught between a rock and a hard place; on one end they want to please their families, and on the other end, a part of society is telling them to chase their own dreams, sans background noise. Can there be a way to please both?

Maira and Agnibarna chew over the double standards between food and beauty. They contemplate healthy eating in North America compared to South Asia, as well as the absurdity of the social constructs that make being conventionally "beautiful" an unachievable dream. Topics include eating disorders, BMI, race, and a lot of psychosocial perspectives. Not to mention oils.

In the first edition of The Hidden Coconuts, Maira and Agnibarna attempt to break the ice by introducing themselves, treading on topics for later discussion, and attempting to be vulnerable. We hope you enjoy and stay tuned for more!