Growing up as both Japanese and Brazilian, I have always felt like I belonged everywhere and nowhere at the same time. The uniqueness of my heritage often sparked curiosity, but it also invited uncomfortable questions. “Where are you really from?” “Do you feel more Brazilian or Japanese?” These questions, though often well-meaning, left me feeling boxed in, as if I had to pick a side.
It wasn’t until college that I began to see my unique identity as a bridge rather than a burden. Through the ups and downs of adjusting to a new academic system, adjusting to the coursework, navigating friendships, and finding my place in a diverse community, I learned to embrace the fullness of who I am. Today, I no longer feel the need to choose— I see myself as 100% Japanese and 100% Brazilian.
For many of us, college is a whirlwind— a time filled with challenges that stretch us in every direction. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the workload, homesickness, and the pressure to fit in. But these very challenges are what make this season of life so transformative. I discovered that every struggle was an opportunity to grow, and every awkward moment was a chance to learn—not only about others but also about myself.
When people asked me about my background, I began to shift my perspective. Instead of seeing their questions as intrusive, I started seeing them as doors— opportunities to educate, connect, and even reflect. It became a way to show the versatility that exists in so many people’s lives, especially those of us who have grown up as third-culture kids (TCKs) or within cross-cultural environments.
As I navigated the ups and downs of college life, there were moments when I felt completely out of place. But it was in those moments that I experienced the power of hospitality and friendship. I remember a time when a friend invited me into their home for a simple meal. What struck me wasn’t the food or the conversation but the way they made space for me to be myself. That small act of kindness reminded me of how Jesus welcomes us— just as we are.
Faith has been a cornerstone in my journey. When I felt lost in the complexity of my identity or overwhelmed by the challenges of college, I found comfort in knowing that God had a purpose for me. Through prayer and reflection, I began to see my unique background not as a source of confusion, but as a gift— a way to connect with and inspire others.
Another crucial part of my journey was finding a mentor who became like a second mom to me. She understood the struggles I was facing because she had walked a similar path as an international student. As the founder of an international organization, she not only guided me but also reminded me that I wasn’t alone. Her wisdom and encouragement became a lifeline during moments when I needed direction and reassurance.
I also surrounded myself with like-minded individuals— other international students who understood the unique challenges and triumphs of our experiences. Together, we created a safe space to share our struggles and celebrate our successes. These connections became a source of strength, helping me to navigate the complexities of college life while embracing my identity.
College turned out to be the perfect environment to challenge myself and lean into self-discovery. The friends I made, the classes I took, and even the late-night existential crises all helped me to piece together my identity and embrace the unique role God has molded for me in this world.
Through this process, I’ve come to realize that we know our own experiences best, and we are the ones who can advocate for them most effectively. Every time I shared my story, I became more confident in my identity and the unique perspective I bring to the table.
To any international student, TCK, or cross-cultural individual reading this: your story matters. Your experiences, though sometimes messy and hard to articulate, are what make you stand out. It’s easy to feel like you don’t fit into the box, but maybe it’s because you were never meant to.
So, here’s my encouragement: lean into the hard seasons. The more we stretch ourselves, the more we grow. College, with all its challenges, is one of the safest spaces to do this. It’s a time to not only earn a degree but also uncover who you are and how you fit into the world.
Life is a journey of discovery, and every season has something to teach us. There is purpose in the way you’ve been uniquely created. Stand tall in the spaces where you feel you don’t belong because it’s in those very places that your story will shine the brightest. And to those who see someone struggling— whether they’re adjusting to a new culture or simply finding their place— know that your kindness could be the lifeline they need.
Let’s carry that spirit forward and make room for each other’s stories. After all, we’re all learning and growing into the unique roles God has molded for us in this world.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
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