New Beginnings, New Challenges: My Path to Living a New Life in the US
Written by Brian Angkasa
For the first-generation journey, so that others can connect with the mental hurdles of finding belonging.
New Beginnings, New Challenges: My Path to Living a New Life in the US
At 16 years old, life in Indonesia felt perfect. I was a teenager in high school, surrounded by friends, a supportive family, and the comfort of a community that celebrated together often. Monthly family gatherings with my cousins were a highlight, filled with laughter and joy. I had a girlfriend, a group of close friends, and a sense of belonging that made life feel secure and happy.
Yet, amid this comfort, my parents and I shared a dream: moving to the United States. For my parents, it was about opportunities—better financial stability and the promise that hard work could lead to a comfortable life. For me, it was something different. I had a dream of becoming an NBA player, believing the US was the land where my basketball aspirations could take flight.
When I turned 16, the plan became a reality. My dad and I moved to New York, leaving behind everything familiar. I was excited, imagining a life of endless possibilities in America. But reality hit me hard when I arrived.
The Challenges of a New World
One of the first hurdles was language. I couldn’t even order food at a restaurant. My English, which I had spoken fluently as a child, was long forgotten. My parents, embarrassed by my English when I was younger, had discouraged me from speaking it in Indonesia. Ironically, as other families began teaching their kids English, I lost mine.
School was another challenge. I missed my big family and my cousins terribly, and making friends was daunting. My inability to communicate confidently made me an introvert. I’ll never forget sitting alone in the cafeteria, avoiding conversations because I was afraid of being laughed at. I’d go home and cry, feeling a loneliness I’d never experienced before.
Finding Connection Through Basketball
Things began to shift when basketball season started. I joined the varsity team and, for the first time, felt a sense of belonging. My teammates were curious about me, asking questions and drawing me out of my shell. Slowly, I started socializing, and basketball gave me a brief respite from my struggles.
That summer, I got a job at a Japanese restaurant where most of the staff were Indonesian. Finally, I found people to talk to, and it felt like a piece of home.
Rewriting My Story
But by my second year of high school, I faced a new struggle. My passion for basketball waned, and I decided not to rejoin the team. Without basketball as my bridge to connection, I found myself retreating again. I spent my lunch breaks in the detention room not because I was in trouble, but because it was quiet, and I could escape into my books.
There, I met two teachers who changed my life.The teacher in the detention room and my finance teacher, who is also the founder of this amazing community, took the time to encourage and guide me. She shared her knowledge about entrepreneurship and always made space for meaningful conversations. These moments helped me develop my communication skills and sparked my interest in building something meaningful.
Her commitment to this community inspired me to get involved and help her grow it. I saw firsthand how her passion for empowering others created a safe space for people to thrive, and I wanted to contribute to that mission.
Lessons from My Journey
Looking back, my journey was far from easy, but it taught me a powerful lesson: you don’t have to face your struggles alone. Finding people who are willing to listen and help can transform your confidence and skills.
If you’re struggling with communication, find someone who creates a safe environment for you to grow. Mistakes will happen, but in the right company, those mistakes become stepping stones.
My path to living in the US wasn’t just about adapting to a new country—it was about rediscovering myself. This community played a huge role in that journey, and I’m proud to be part of it. Together, we can create more opportunities for others to find their voice and realize their potential.
Your journey might have its share of challenges, but remember, you're not alone. Whether you're striving to improve your communication, find a supportive community, or pursue a dream, there’s always a way forward.
If my story resonates with you, I’d love to connect. Let’s build a space where growth, support, and opportunities thrive.
Let us know in the comments what part of this story speaks to you the most, or share your journey, we’re here to support and inspire each other!
