4: Advice (Jemima Borrego-Garza)

 Howdy!

      When I first arrived, I carried a mindset that everything needed to go according to plan. I wanted to adapt quickly to the culture, perform well academically, and make the most of every opportunity. I thought success here meant staying busy and constantly moving forward. Over time, that perspective began to change. I started to realize that the most meaningful growth often happens when you slow down enough to notice it.

      During these six weeks, I have become more open to reflecting on my experiences and more willing to accept changes in life as they come. This reflection often happened in simple, everyday moments. On the train rides to class, I would sit by the window and watch the city slowly wake up. I would notice people heading to work, students with backpacks, and the rhythm of the streets passing by. These moments gave me space to think about what I had learned so far and how I was changing. Visiting museums gave me a similar feeling. Surrounded by centuries-old art and artifacts, I found myself reflecting on the lives and stories of people who had come before me. It made my own worries seem smaller and reminded me that life is always moving and changing.

      Through these moments, I learned to let go of the constant need to control every detail. I accepted that things would not always go as planned and that unexpected changes were not obstacles but opportunities. This shift made my experience richer and more enjoyable.

      If I could give my pre-departure self one piece of advice, it would be to enjoy the experience fully and stop worrying so much. The challenges that I expected to be overwhelming often turned into moments of connection, learning, or self-discovery. This program taught me that growth comes not only from the major events but also from the quiet pauses in between, when you are present, listening, and open to whatever comes next.