Early this year, I received a text from a young lady around my age, distressed and looking for advice. Having recently arrived in the United States, an entirely foreign land to her, she came to find that life was not panning out the way she had anticipated.
Her ambitions were clear.
She wanted to pursue a university education, get a job and find her own place to stay. Adding to her motivation was the thought of her younger brother, who was also thinking of pursuing the so-called “American Dream.” He was looking to follow in her footsteps.
She was fortunate enough to have a family that offered her a place to stay, providing her with a roof over her head. However, despite their help, the family did not encourage her academic endeavors. After one semester of college and some substantial student debt, she took a step back from her education, eager to eventually return.
The host family then encouraged her to pursue a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) license, a path often taken by many immigrants seeking financial independence.
While she wasn’t particularly enthusiastic about this new direction, she realized that obtaining the license could at least provide her a potential means to support herself through school.
Her newest issue was now that despite having her CNA license, she struggled to secure a job. Her days were filled with chores around the house, leaving her feeling unfulfilled.
I could almost relate to the frustration, having moved abroad not too long ago. The despair of waiting for opportunities to present themselves and the emotional toll it can take.
Many people from developing countries harbor misguided beliefs about moving abroad. There’s a common misconception that by simply relocating to a developed country, you will have guaranteed success and a struggle-free life.
Reality is stark.
The challenges of adapting to a foreign culture while trying not to forget your own, finding your footing, learning a foreign language are just the beginning of it all.
Regardless of whether you are leaving home to start school, start a business, or for job opportunities, most foreigners start their journeys with gradual steps as they acclimate to their new environments.
I can speak from experience.
My advice to her was that life overseas is ultimately what you make of it. The mindset that equates living abroad with instant success is detrimental, especially when reality sets in and the challenges become apparent.
I encouraged her to build a sense of community. And that it may not always be as easy, but it can make living on foreign soil feel somewhat like home.
I look forward to sharing more insights on living life overseas for anyone who has taken the brave step to leave their home country in search of new opportunities.
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