Country of Origin: Peru
Degree: Master of Science in Information Systems

Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine — and now I’m living it.

What nobody tells you is how much this change can affect you emotionally. A year after arriving in Utah, I’m ready to share my journey as an international student — the most “out of my comfort zone” experience I’ve ever had.

Homesickness

This was my first time leaving my country. As someone very close to her family, not seeing them every day was hard. I felt excited but also sad, and during my first semester, I struggled to be fully present.

Before I left Peru, someone told me, “Don’t let your feelings interfere with your experience. Time doesn’t go back.” Easier said than done. To cope with homesickness, I went to the Counseling Center (free for all students!), which really helped. I also made time for activities I enjoy, like working out at the Student Life Center, cooking Peruvian meals, hanging out with friends, and calling my family often.

Impostor Syndrome

Coming from an International Business background, I was learning something completely new here. Comparing myself to others made me doubt my abilities — classic impostor syndrome. A piece of advice changed my perspective: “If you feel impostor syndrome, it means you’re being brave and doing challenging things.”

From then on, I focused on learning and giving my best. My Networking and Servers class was the hardest — at first, I didn’t understand a thing. But after studying hard, I celebrated even an average grade because it meant progress.

Now, I work on campus as a computer technician — a role I never imagined getting. With effort and consistency, I’m learning every day. There will be good and bad days, but feeling your emotions, reconnecting with yourself, and remembering how far you’ve come make it all worth it.

Advice to my peers: Socializing may be scary at first, but it will help you improve your English, boost your confidence, and make friends. Talk to professors, advisors, and classmates — and remember, you’re studying in another language, so give yourself credit!