A year after!

Spending a year abroad as an international student has been a transformative experience exciting, challenging, and full of life lessons. I came here for education, but in reality, this journey became the biggest upgrade of my life. It has shaped me into a more independent, confident, and self-reliant person. What once felt foreign now feels like home, and ironically, the thought of returning for a holiday feels more stressful than comforting.

Back home, starting something new always felt daunting. Whether it was applying for a job, making a simple request, or even wearing a certain outfit, the fear of judgment loomed large. But living far from home, managing everything alone, and navigating unfamiliar situations removed these unnecessary anxieties. I realised that people are too busy with their own lives to dwell on mine and even if they do, their opinions hold no weight in my journey.

Confidence isn't just about speaking on stage or leading a group; it's found in everyday actions. Asking someone to step aside in a rush, requesting a manager to correct a mistaken order, taking a well-deserved sick leave without guilt, and spending money on myself after long working hours all of these are small yet powerful acts of self-respect. These moments, often overlooked, are stepping stones towards personal growth.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is financial independence and smart money management:

• Resisting impulse spending and rewarding myself only after meeting personal goals.

• Saving diligently to send money home and contribute towards clearing family loans.

• Buying gifts for loved ones with my own hard-earned salary, making every purchase more meaningful.

Every decision around money became more intentional, teaching me discipline and appreciation for delayed gratification.

Living abroad redefined my friendships. Distance filtered out the superficial connections and strengthened the meaningful ones. Conversations became more honest, and opening up about struggles felt therapeutic. The miles between us didn’t weaken our bond they made it stronger.

• The freedom to wear what I want without fear of judgement.

• The joy of solo travel, proving that I don’t always need company to create unforgettable experiences.

• The understanding that self-care is not selfish whether it’s treating myself after a tough month or simply prioritising my well-being.

  
  

  This Is Life Learned

Looking back, this year abroad was never just about my studies. It was about stepping out of my comfort zone, embracing independence, and evolving into a more self-assured person. The biggest lesson? Life is about continuous growth, and the best part I am still learning.