Recently, I was thinking about my graduation date and how much work I have to do until I get my diploma. I flashed back to all of my past all-nighters and how I walked like a zombie the next day. I recalled my morning classes and how several students basically rolled out of their beds and came to class. One of my most challenging classes came to my mind as well. I had to take several tutoring hours just so I could complete the course. My grade did not turn out badly even though I had given up on the idea of doing well. It certainly was not an easy journey and several times I was ready to book a ticket and go back home. Oftentimes people ask the international students, including myself, “Where did you find your motivation to go on?” I always tell people that I keep my goals, my family, and my future in mind.

Every morning when my alarm clock rings, I think about all of the daily activities that I need to participate in. Some students are privileged to only attend classes. Some of us have to work lots of hours, lead clubs, be a part of athletics, and so on. My goal was to leave my home country at a young age and pursue my dream of getting an American degree. I studied for two years in Lithuania prior to arriving in the United States. Although my target was the United States, I gave Lithuania a shot. After that experience, I have ended up calling three places home: Albania, Lithuania, and the United States.

I was told that some- times you need to do what you do not like so that you reach where you want to be. Lithuania was not my first goal, yet I ended up loving it and it lead to me getting to my dream place: Eastern Mennonite University. For so many people it may sound like just a college, but for some it is the accomplishment of a big dream.

My first and last thought of the day is the well-being of my family. I wonder how they are doing. Oftentimes I hear about how parents have a favorite child, and I always contemplate: “It had better be me.” I know how hard it was for my parents to let me go at a young age; I also know that they struggled with so many losses in the past two years, and I was not there to share the pain with them. They are definitely one of the biggest reasons why I decided to never give up on my goals. They are the ones who saw me through thick and thin.

Do you ever get anxious when you think about your future? I personally do, a lot. I have a mission and a vision. My mission is to help students like me to pursue their goals. I believe that sometimes we are the only role model that someone will have. Therefore, I would love to be able to mentor someone or several students. Some of us may have an issue finding solid ground on which to stand, especially if we come from other continents. I have found that my motivation to keep going further is remembering those who raised me, my goals, and the vision I have for my future and my nation’s future.