I know what it feels like to leave home for higher studies or work, and that’s why I started bringing people together.
It started with creating a football (or American soccer) club. For us, football became the way to unite. Most people here either play or love the game of football, so we gather to play, cheer each other on, and build friendships. We give farewells to those leaving and warmly welcome anyone who wants to join our community. Everyone is welcome, and if they ever need help or support, I try to be there for them in whatever way I can.
Many of my colleagues say they don’t have time to play or support students beyond their classrooms.
I soon noticed many students couldn’t afford homely food, especially fresh vegetables. That’s when I decided to start a community garden behind my apartment. Now, we grow together, and anyone can take what they need.
The biggest problem I saw was isolation. Many students feel homesick or lonely after leaving everything behind in search of a better future. I have felt that too, and I don’t want anyone new to feel the same way. That’s why I make sure people know they are not alone. Over time, people started calling me “Coach.” I’ve never formally coached them, but it’s a name of respect, and it makes me feel deeply connected to them.
I also started a small club so international students could play in tournaments, offered free coaching for kids, and began training those interested in becoming football referees. I’ve organized different events, not just for internationals but also with local U.S. students, and now they are part of our community too.
My aim is simple: to continue building this community and supporting anyone who struggles with homesickness. What inspires me is seeing people come together, support one another, and smile. I don’t expect anything in return. For me, the reward is knowing they feel at home here, that they belong, and that they have someone to turn to.
It started with creating a football (or American soccer) club. For us, football became the way to unite. Most people here either play or love the game of football, so we gather to play, cheer each other on, and build friendships. We give farewells to those leaving and warmly welcome anyone who wants to join our community. Everyone is welcome, and if they ever need help or support, I try to be there for them in whatever way I can.
Many of my colleagues say they don’t have time to play or support students beyond their classrooms.
I soon noticed many students couldn’t afford homely food, especially fresh vegetables. That’s when I decided to start a community garden behind my apartment. Now, we grow together, and anyone can take what they need.
The biggest problem I saw was isolation. Many students feel homesick or lonely after leaving everything behind in search of a better future. I have felt that too, and I don’t want anyone new to feel the same way. That’s why I make sure people know they are not alone. Over time, people started calling me “Coach.” I’ve never formally coached them, but it’s a name of respect, and it makes me feel deeply connected to them.
I also started a small club so international students could play in tournaments, offered free coaching for kids, and began training those interested in becoming football referees. I’ve organized different events, not just for internationals but also with local U.S. students, and now they are part of our community too.
My aim is simple: to continue building this community and supporting anyone who struggles with homesickness. What inspires me is seeing people come together, support one another, and smile. I don’t expect anything in return. For me, the reward is knowing they feel at home here, that they belong, and that they have someone to turn to.
