"Lo
st in Translation" - Getting Lost and Finding Myself in a Foreign Language As an international student studying abroad, I had always prided myself on my English-speaking abilities. Growing up, I had attended an international school where English was the primary language of instruction. I had aced my English exams, attended English-speaking summer camps, and even participated in debate competitions. Needless to say, I was confident in my English skills and did not anticipate any major language barriers during my time overseas. However, the reality proved to be quite different. Upon arriving in my host country, I found myself struggling to keep up with the local accent and slang. I found it hard to express myself with the same level of nuance and depth that I was used to in my native language. Simple things like ordering at a restaurant or asking for directions became daunting tasks. It was as if my entire sense of self, my confidence and my identity were suddenly stripped away by not being able to communicate effectively. As a result, I started avoiding social situations and interactions with locals. I spent most of my time in my dorm room, watching movies and scrolling through my phone. I felt trapped and isolated, wondering whether I had made a mistake in coming here. Yet, over time, something shifted. As I began to immerse myself more fully in the language and culture, I realized that my struggles with the language were not a sign of incompetence but rather an opportunity to grow and learn. I started to approach every day as a new chance to practice, to listen, and to ask questions. I discovered the beauty of learning through mistakes and the power of nonverbal communication. More importantly, I discovered a new part of myself - a part that was resilient, curious, and open to new experiences. I learned that no matter how lost I felt in translation, I was capable of finding my way back to myself. In hindsight, my struggles with English were a blessing in disguise. They forced me out of my comfort zone and challenged me to see the world from a different perspective. They allowed me to connect with people in ways that went far beyond language. Most importantly, they taught me that the biggest obstacles we face in life often turn out to be our greatest opportunities for growth and self-discovery.