Over the past year, one way I have grown is in my ability to be more independent. I used to rely heavily on my parents and family for guidance and support in my daily life. However, traveling to a different continent for school and being immersed in a completely new culture forced me to learn how to navigate and take care of myself on my own. This experience has taught me how to problem solve, budget my finances and make decisions for myself. I have also learned how to adapt to new environments and make friends in unfamiliar places. One of the biggest challenges I faced was the lack of familiar food options. Coming from a culture where certain types of food were a staple in my diet, finding and adjusting to new types of food was difficult. I had to learn how to cook for myself and try new things, as well as learning where to find the ingredients I was used to. I also had to learn how to navigate different food options and how to eat out in unfamiliar places. This experience helped me to be more adventurous when it comes to food and I have discovered some amazing new cuisines that I now love. Another challenge was the cultural difference. I had to understand and adapt to different customs and social norms. This was difficult at first, for example, the way people greeted each other, the way they showed respect and the way they communicated. But with time and by interacting with locals, I was able to learn and appreciate the new culture. I had to learn to be more open-minded and flexible. I also had to learn how to appreciate and respect the cultural norms and customs that were different from what I was used to. This experience helped me to broaden my perspective and understand the world more. And don't even get me started on the struggle I had with the climate difference *sigh* While I have grown in my independence, I still have moments where I feel homesick and miss the support and familiarity of my family and friends back home. However, I have also come to appreciate the value of independence and self-reliance. Through this journey of self-discovery, I have learned that stepping out of my comfort zone can lead to personal growth and valuable life experiences. I have also learned that independence is not just about standing alone, but also about learning how to interact and connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures. This experience has helped me to become a more self-sufficient, resilient and confident person.