Growing up in Ethiopia, I never truly understood the weight of being different until I embarked on my journey to the United States for college. As an Ethiopian woman, I was accustomed to the comfort and familiarity of my home city, surrounded by people who shared my cultural background, religion, and experiences. However, the moment I stepped foot on my college campus, I was confronted with an entirely new reality – one where I stood out as the sole representation of my race, ethnicity, and faith. Adapting to college life is a challenge for most students, as they navigate being away from family, making new friends, and adjusting to the rigors of higher education. For me, these challenges were compounded by the profound sense of isolation and discrimination I encountered as an immigrant. Walking around campus wearing my traditional Habesha dress and my cherished Axumite cross, I couldn't help but notice the stares and glances from my peers. It felt as though my very presence was an anomaly, and this realization began to chip away at my confidence and sense of belonging. In the classroom, I found myself grappling with the overwhelming feeling of being an outsider. As the only student of my background, I often hesitated to speak up or share my unique perspectives, fearing that my contributions would be met with misunderstanding or indifference. The weight of representing an entire culture and identity on my own felt like an immense responsibility, one that I was unsure I could shoulder alone. Despite these challenges, I refused to let the discrimination and isolation define my college experience. I recognized that my immigrant background had instilled in me a resilience and determination that would serve me well in overcoming adversity. Drawing strength from my Ethiopian heritage and the sacrifices my family had made to provide me with this opportunity, I resolved to persevere and make the most of my education. I actively sought out resources and support systems on campus, connecting with other international students and joining cultural organizations that celebrated diversity. Through these connections, I found a sense of community and belonging that helped me navigate the challenges of being an immigrant student. I also reached out to professors and mentors who encouraged me to embrace my unique perspective and to view my background as an asset rather than a hindrance. As I continued to grow and adapt to my new environment, I began to see my immigrant experience as a source of strength and inspiration. The adversity I faced fueled my determination to succeed academically and to use my education as a means of empowering myself and giving back to my community. I became more vocal in class discussions, sharing my insights and experiences with confidence, knowing that my perspective had value and could enrich the learning environment for everyone. Looking back on my journey, I realize that my immigrant experience has not only shaped my educational goals but has also equipped me with the resilience, adaptability, and cultural awareness necessary to thrive in an increasingly diverse and interconnected world. While the challenges I faced were significant, they have ultimately strengthened my resolve to pursue my dreams and to use my education as a tool for positive change. As I continue on my educational path, I carry with me the lessons learned from my immigrant experience – the importance of embracing my identity, the power of perseverance in the face of adversity, and the value of diverse perspectives in creating a more inclusive and equitable society.