Welcome to V.I.S.A Blog

We are excited to announce the V.I.S.A Blog!
This is a blog written from internationals to internationals.

Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines the word “international” as active, known, or reaching beyond national boundaries. We hope that international students and alumni will become an active part of making their cross-cultural experiences known through this blog. Moving to a new country brings new challenges, and we hope that the shared experiences and tips will make your life here easier. Our international friends will share insights on overcoming cross-cultural difficulties, homesickness, adjustment strategies, and ways to improve wellbeing.

Adapting to an unfamiliar environment can be a better journey when accompanied by friends. How many times have you said "Me too" to a fellow international friend in a conversation? Those two words hold a bond that strengthens when we intentionally sit together and share. Although we share unique experiences, we also have so much in common. Let us come together and build a bridge between the words me and we. This quote from international author Upile Chisala says it well:

“Sometimes we are exhausted, we are tired of all the homes that we have to bring with us to a room. All the languages in our bellies. The countries in our feet. The culture entwined with our backbones; Sometimes heavy, sometimes part of our bodies. But what a blessing it is. We come from many. We support many. We rely on many. We are many.”
-Upile Chisala

We hope that this blog will play a small role in internationals relying on each other, and helping each other learn to thrive in Memphis!