Speaking to NPR in his first media interview since his detention, lawful permanent U.S. resident Mohsen Mahdawi finds peace in meditation and hopes "America will fulfill its promise."

The Columbia University student has been in custody in Vermont since he was detained at a citizenship appointment two weeks ago.

In his first comments to the media since his April 14 detainment, Columbia student Mohsen Mahdawi said he had faith that he won't be deported.