My Journey as an International Student in Belgium
I moved to Belgium in 2022: uncertain, overwhelmed, but full of dreams. I didn’t know exactly what I was going to make of this new beginning, but I knew one thing for sure: I wanted more out of life, not just for me, but for my family. I’ve always been a dreamer, and my biggest dream has always been to bring stability into our lives and retire my parents early. With these hopes tucked deep in my heart, I stepped into this new chapter.
I consider myself lucky in many ways. My parents were already living in Belgium, so I didn’t have to struggle with finding shelter or worry about surviving alone. Just three months after arriving, I started working as a cleaning lady. It wasn’t easy, but it was a start. I did that job for six months, but deep down, I knew it wasn’t what I wanted. I wanted to learn, to grow, to go to school like everyone else here. I wanted to build something that would last.
Eventually, I shifted to a part-time job as a waitress. That came with its own set of challenges especially the language barrier. Taking orders in Dutch, interacting with customers, and speaking up terrified me at first. The fear was crippling. But every shift pushed me a little further out of my comfort zone. Slowly, I started to find my pace. And now, three years later, I’m no longer afraid to speak Dutch. I’m not perfect not yet, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come.
Over the past few years, I’ve placed myself in different environments at work, in school, and in public life just to understand the people, the culture, and how the system here works. The country that once felt distant and unfamiliar is no longer a stranger to me. Belgium has helped me discover a part of myself I didn’t know existed, the version of me that is strong, determined, and willing to fight for her future.
One of the key turning points in this journey was joining Bridges by Mentors, a project that connects international students and helps them navigate life in Belgium. Through this program, I not only found a sense of belonging but also realized the power of community and mentorship. It gave me a space to contribute, to learn from others, and to support fellow students who are on similar paths.
Making friends wasn’t easy either. At times, I felt isolated. But slowly, I began to build meaningful connections. Today, I’m grateful for the people who’ve stood by me during the hard times. They’ve made this place feel like home.
Now, I’m studying Marketing and Communication Support and that, to me, is a huge achievement. One of my dreams was to attend a regular school just like others here,
and it’s finally come true. I’m learning, growing, and most importantly, I’m open to every opportunity that comes my way. I want to network, gain experience, and absorb as much as I can in this chapter of my life.
Throughout this journey, I’ve learned what endurance truly means. I’ve learned courage the kind that shows up even when fear is loud. One quote that has stayed with me is:
“No fear is bigger than you.”
I carry that with me everywhere I go.
I still have a long way to go. But I believe in myself. I will continue to move forward with the same fire in my heart, and one day, I will fulfill every dream I’ve ever had for myself and for my parents.
