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Freezing in New York: A Dream Come True...Sort Of

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New York had been my dream for as long as I can remember. Back when I had my heart set on Columbia University, I would often daydream about life in the city and even imagined what I’d shop for once I got there. Though life took a different turn—leading me to UT Austin instead, a choice I cherish deeply—this December, I finally had my moment in New York. It was mid-December, the city was buzzing with holiday energy, but to be honest, it wasn’t exactly how I had pictured it. Coming from Austin, a city that’s lively yet peaceful, New York was an entirely new kind of energy for me. Visiting during the holiday season was truly magical—the Christmas decorations were stunning, and the effort people put into making the city festive was incredible. Every street seemed to sparkle, and the holiday spirit was contagious. However, the crowds were overwhelming. The streets were packed with people, and the constant hustle made it a little hard to fully take in the beauty around me. Still, I’m glad I ...

Wrapping up my first semester at UT Austin

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When I moved to the United States, I had no idea what to expect. But Austin quickly became my home, thanks to the people here. There’s something special about Texans—their warmth and friendliness make you feel like you belong, even as a newcomer. Austin’s community is welcoming in a way that feels genuine, from the cheerful “Howdy!” you hear in passing to the locals who are always happy to share their love for Texas. One thing I’ve noticed is how proud Texans are of their culture, and that pride is contagious. In just a few months, I found myself settling in, feeling more connected than I ever imagined. My first week in Austin was anything but a dream. It was lonely, uncomfortable, and filled with uncertainty. My roommates and friends weren’t arriving until the following week, so I was left to figure things out on my own. The silence in my apartment was overwhelming, and every small decision felt like a big mistake. For the first time, I questioned whether coming here was the right cho...