The Ultimate Soundtrack for My Life Abroad: Songs That Define Each Chapter of My Journey Abroad
Music has a way of capturing the emotions and memories of different phases in our lives, and my journey abroad has been no exception. From the excitement and challenges of moving to a new country to the moments of triumph and adaptation, here’s a soundtrack that defines each chapter of my experience living abroad.
1. Moving to Australia Alone to Study and Work, Without Speaking the Language:
• “Don’t Stop Believin’” - Journey
This classic anthem reminds me to keep pushing forward, even when the odds are against me. It was the perfect motivator during those early days when I was navigating a new country and language.
• “Learning to Fly” - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
This song encapsulates the feeling of taking a leap of faith and learning to soar in unfamiliar territory.
2. Starting University Abroad and Feeling Lost in a Completely Different System:
A fitting song for those moments of confusion and adaptation. It reassures me that it’s okay to feel lost sometimes—eventually, I’ll find my way.
• “Here Comes the Sun” - The Beatles
A hopeful reminder that things will get brighter and better as I adjust to my new environment.
3. Starting to Work in My Field and Still Struggling with English, Yet Managing to Get By:
This track is my personal anthem for overcoming obstacles and getting stronger with each challenge.
• “Survivor” - Destiny’s Child
For every moment I felt like giving up, this song reminded me that I’m capable of pushing through and thriving, no matter the odds.
4. Moving to Portugal and Feeling Like They Were Speaking a Different Language:
• “Another Brick in the Wall” - Pink Floyd
A song that resonated with my feelings of trying to fit into a system that felt alien, even though the language was technically familiar.
• “Unwritten” - Natasha Bedingfield
A reminder that every new chapter is a blank page, and it’s up to me to write my own story as I navigate this new country.
Moving Abroad: Empowered from Inside and Out in a Foreign Land coming Spring 2025!
5. Falling in Love with Ireland After Moving There:
This upbeat track perfectly captures the charm and spirit of Ireland, a country I quickly fell in love with.
• “The Parting Glass” - The High Kings
A beautiful traditional Irish song that evokes the deep emotional connections I made with the country and its people.
6. Returning to Portugal and Finally Feeling Like Part of the Community:
• “Home” - Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
This song represents the feeling of finally finding my place and feeling at home, even in a foreign land.
• “Better Together” - Jack Johnson
A celebration of the connections and relationships that made me feel like I truly belong.
7. Moving to Switzerland and Still Trying to Adjust:
A song that perfectly reflects the experience of being new in a place and learning how to navigate a different world.
A gentle reminder to be patient with myself during this transition—after all, everything takes time, and there’s no rush to figure it all out.
Letting go of blame is the key to thriving abroad—find out how to ‘arrive’ as an expat by embracing life’s challenges with grace.