Halfway Across the World

Name: Somya Patro

Year: 2nd Year

Major: Biology

Growing up in Singapore for 18 years, my dad thought that it would be best for me to gain exposure and experience by receiving an education in the United States. Upon searching for universities in the U.S, I stumbled upon and was instantly drawn to UCR at first sight, and after touring the campus I was determined that I would be a future Highlander.

Coming from a small country, I was excited to start a new journey in my life. I didn’t have a great high school experience, and the thought of being able to start fresh really excited me. Having traveled to the U.S. twice prior to coming to UCR, I wanted to explore and step out of what I was used to. All my life I have had everything done for me at home, but I knew I would have to get used to being on top of my tasks and responsibilities.

One of the biggest hardships that I faced transitioning from Singapore to America was communicating with my parents. With Singapore being 15 hours ahead, it was a struggle for both my parents and I to either stay up late or wake up early to FaceTime each other. In addition to communication, the distance away from my home and family took a huge toll on me, and I fell into a state of loneliness my first week here. Everything hit me all at once so suddenly, but I found comfort in opening up to RA’s and hallmates, many of whom I am proud to call best friends today.

Short holiday breaks such as Thanksgiving were always a bit awkward for us international students. We had no choice but to remain in the dorms over the breaks because the cost to fly back home was too high. It was a ghost town in the dorms - with everyone gone and the dining halls and restaurants closed. When I did have the chance the go to Singapore in the winter and summer, I experienced the same feelings of loneliness that I had when I first transitioned into UCR. What’s funny is that even though I was back home with my friends and my family, I felt so lonely because I missed all of the friends and the people that I made throughout the year.

Overall, coming to UCR has been one of the best decisions that I have ever made. Not only have I been able adapt to life in the United States, but my communication/social aspects, independency, confidence, and responsibility have skyrocketed. My friends have made it so much easier being 9000 miles away from home and have grown into my second family. I am fascinated by the great diversity, culture, and ethnicity here at UCR and in the United States, and seeing everyone around me drives me to want to become more independent.

If there is one tip that I would recommend, it’s don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. You’re here for a reason, so make the most of your time, experience the American college life, it’s different than the colleges back home in other countries. Experience everything that you can.