solitude. It's a feeling that I, along with many other international students, have come to know all too well. The quiet streets, the lack of bustling night markets, and the prevalence of cars over people - it can be overwhelming at times. But as I look back on my experience, I realize that this sense of loneliness has also been a catalyst for growth.

It's not just the physical environment that has challenged me; it's also the cultural differences and the need to adapt to new ways of thinking and living. For instance, adjusting to American cuisine was a struggle at first - who needs butter when you can have ketchup? And don't even get me started on salads! But these small challenges have taught me resilience and resourcefulness.

The language barrier is another obstacle that many international students face. No matter how proficient we become in English, there are always nuances and idioms that elude us. This can lead to feelings of frustration and isolation - but it's also an opportunity for growth.

One thing that has surprised me is how much Americans value mental health awareness. It seems like everyone is talking about their struggles with anxiety or depression - even those who appear successful on the surface may be hiding their own battles behind a facade of confidence.

I've learned so much about myself during my time here - from coping with loneliness to adapting to new environments and cultures. It's not always easy, but it's worth it in the end.

As I prepare to leave America behind (for now), I'm grateful for everything this country has given me: from its vibrant culture and diverse communities to its challenging academic system and supportive network of people who understand what we're going through as international students.

Of course, there are still moments when homesickness washes over me like a wave - especially during holidays or special events when family gatherings feel more important than ever before. But even these moments remind me why I came here in the first place: because life is full of experiences waiting to be had outside our comfort zones.

So if you're reading this from afar or considering making your own journey across seas or continents someday soon (or maybe you already are!), take heart: though leaving home may seem daunting at times (and trust me when i say they will be), embracing solitude could become one heckuva transformative adventure!