Self-Reflection on My Journey

Having spent nearly seven years in the United States, my relocation from Brazil was driven by a scholarship opportunity at an HBCU in Jackson, Mississippi. The experience was nothing short of a significant cultural adjustment, which I discussed in detail in a previous article.

This transition was marked by a stark contrast in surroundings; I moved from Mississippi, known for its low Human Development Index, to Massachusetts, where the HDI is among the highest in the country. Each shift presented its own challenges. When people ask me about my experiences in different states and how I navigate living away from my family, I often find myself reflecting on societal perceptions versus my own sentiments about being far from home. Despite our shared humanity, our diverse backgrounds shape our experiences and values.

In this article, I aim to share some of these reflections.

Myth 1: Living Abroad is Always Glamorous

Contrary to popular belief, residing in a foreign land can often feel isolating and daunting. Initially, I lived with a fellow Brazilian partner, which made the transition somewhat smoother. However, the reality was that we still felt quite alone, especially in Mississippi, where entertainment options were limited. Our focus was primarily on our studies, which somewhat alleviated the longing for social interaction. As a naturally sociable person, I often planned trips back to Brazil to reconnect.

Financial constraints as students made frequent visits home challenging. Furthermore, acclimating to a new culture demands patience and commitment.

Myth 2: Making Local Friends is Effortless

As I mentioned, my time in Mississippi was not without its difficulties. The Brazilian community was sparse, and our social circles mostly consisted of Americans and Indians. This diversity necessitated stepping out of our comfort zones and actively seeking social engagements to build connections.

Myth 3: Language Acquisition Happens Naturally

One of the most significant hurdles during my master's program was mastering not only the technical language and terminology but also the regional slang. The process of learning a new language is far from automatic; it requires dedicated effort and the willingness to embrace new experiences.

Myth 4: Financial Savings are Guaranteed

In my case, the first four years in the US were financially challenging. My initial two years were spent working at the university, where my earnings barely covered living expenses. When my final paycheck was delayed, I had to dip into my savings from Brazil to secure my diploma—a saga in itself!

If you're currently navigating a move abroad and feeling lonely, exhausted, or hopeless, remember that these feelings are common. You're not alone in your struggles. Trust the journey and reflect on the reasons that motivated your move—to explore new cultures, learn new languages, and forge connections in a different part of the world. This experience will undoubtedly enrich your life.

The first video, "7 Myths About Living Abroad," explores common misconceptions that many people have regarding the realities of relocating to a new country.

The second video, "Top 12 Lies Americans Believe About Moving Abroad," delves into the false narratives surrounding the experience of living abroad, specifically in the context of moving to places like Madeira, Portugal.