Hello there, future world traveler! First, congratulations on taking the brave step to study abroad. Trust me, this experience will change your life in ways you can’t even imagine. I know because I’ve been there. I’ve navigated the thrill, the challenges, and the self-discovery that come with studying in countries far from home. Through it all, I learned one essential truth—holding onto your cultural identity is like carrying a piece of home with you wherever you go, and it’s a source of strength and pride.

My Own Journey of Self-Identity

Growing up in Ghana, my cultural identity was clear to me. I was an Ashanti child deeply rooted in my community. But all of that was challenged when I moved to the United States. Suddenly, I wasn’t just Ashanti anymore—I became the “African girl” or “Black student.” It was eye-opening. People who didn’t know my story or background wanted to define me by their labels or categories. Honestly, it was confusing, and at times, I felt lost.

Things got even more complex when I studied abroad again, this time in China. Now, I wasn’t seen as African or even Black. To those around me, I was simply American because of my U.S. passport. It didn’t matter that at home in America, I still didn’t fully feel like I fit into their definition of “American.” Can you imagine the identity crisis I had?

There I was, in an entirely new environment, trying to figure out who I truly was amidst all these external perceptions. At one point, I had to stop and ask myself, “Who is Leticia? Am I Ashanti? African? American? What does all of this mean?” It wasn’t easy, but the process of self-reflection became my compass, helping me rediscover myself and celebrate my cultural identity no matter where I was.

Now, as someone who founded Expanding Boundaries International to help others like you explore the world, I want to share some tips I learned along the way. These might help you as you prepare to live, learn, and grow in a new country.

Why Your Cultural Identity Matters

Your cultural identity is part of what makes you unique, and it’s something to be proud of. It’s more than just where you’re from—it’s your traditions, your values, your experiences, and the way you see the world. When you study abroad, people will be curious about you and your story. Sharing your culture with others is a powerful way to connect and educate.

At the same time, it’s important to protect your sense of self. Some people might not understand your background, or worse, they might try to box you into categories that don’t feel right. That’s why it’s so crucial to define yourself for yourself before anyone else tries to do it for you.

Practical Tips to Stay Rooted in Your Identity

1. Ask Yourself “Who Am I?” Often

Before you leave, take time to reflect on your identity. For me, this process started with asking questions like:

• What cultural values and traditions do I want to keep alive while abroad?
• What makes me feel connected to my heritage?
• How do I define myself beyond labels others may give me?

These answers become your foundation. They anchor you when identity confusion creeps in.

2. Share Your Story Confidently

There will be moments when someone asks, “Where are you from?” or “What’s it like to be from your country?” Use these opportunities to tell your story in your own words. Share the beauty of your culture, your unique experiences, and your perspective. Back in China, I took every chance I could to teach my classmates about Ghanaian traditions. It became a way to stay connected to my roots while opening their minds to something new.

I’ll never forget one particular incident during my time in China. One of my classmates, an Indian-American student, had a rather unsettling encounter with a local man. It all started innocently enough when the man asked her where she was from. Without hesitation, she answered, “The U.S.”

The man froze for a moment, his face clouding with disbelief. “No, no,” he said, shaking his head. “You don’t look American. You look Indian.”

At first, she tried to explain. She shared how she was born and raised in the United States, how the U.S. is home for her, and even pulled out her U.S. passport in an effort to clear his doubts. But he wasn’t having it. For over 30 minutes, he insisted that she couldn’t possibly be American simply because of the way she looked.

I remember watching how composed she stayed despite the man’s refusal to accept her reality. For her, this wasn’t just a casual misunderstanding—it was a moment that questioned her identity, her belonging, and everything she knew about herself. It wasn’t just frustrating—it was exhausting to have to prove who she was to someone who had already made up their mind about her.

This encounter left a mark on all of us in the group. It was a stark reminder of the deep cultural differences we face when traveling and the assumptions people might make based solely on appearance. It highlighted the biases, however unintentional, that can come into play when people try to box identities into their own framework of understanding.

But it also served as a powerful lesson. Experiences like these teach us the importance of holding on to who we are, even when the world challenges it. They remind us to stay patient and kind when faced with ignorance and, most importantly, to respect and celebrate the many ways identity can exist.

3. Celebrate Your Culture Every Day

Living abroad doesn’t mean leaving your culture behind. Carry it with you in small, meaningful ways. Cook your favorite dishes, celebrate holidays from home, or listen to music that reminds you of where you come from. I still remember making jollof rice in my tiny apartment in China. The smell filled my space with memories of home and was an instant comfort on tough days.

4. Find Your People

Look for communities or groups that share your heritage or are curious about it. When I was in the U.S., meeting other Ghanaian students helped me find a sense of belonging I really needed. Even if you can’t find someone from your exact background, there are often cultural clubs or organizations that welcome diverse experiences.

5. Stay Connected with Home

Technology is a blessing when you’re far from home. Make the effort to call your family, share photos, or even just chat about how your day went. Staying connected to loved ones reminds you of who you are and where you come from, no matter how far you wander.

6. Be Open to Growth Without Losing Yourself

Studying abroad will inevitably change you, and that’s a good thing. You’ll pick up new habits, perspectives, and even parts of the culture where you’re living. The key is to integrate those experiences without letting go of the heritage that makes you unique. Growth doesn’t mean losing yourself; it means adding more layers to your identity.

It’s Okay to Not Have All the Answers

I’ll be honest—there will be moments when you feel misunderstood. Times when, no matter how much you explain, others will still see you through their own lenses. That’s okay. What matters is that you know who you are. You’ll learn to find peace in knowing your identity doesn’t have to fit into anyone else’s expectations.

A Final Word of Encouragement

Studying abroad will be one of the most transforming seasons of your life. There will be challenges, sure, but there will also be incredible moments of self-discovery and celebration. You’ll learn that your cultural identity is both your anchor and your gift to the world.

Remember that you are the only one who gets to decide who you are. Your uniqueness makes you stronger, and the way you carry your heritage adds value in every situation.

Step into this adventure with an open heart, and know that no matter where you go, your culture travels with you. Celebrate it. Share it. Hold it close. I’m cheering you on every step of the way.

With pride and encouragement,
Leticia Nortey
Founder, Expanding Boundaries International