Claire Chung, a senior from Kaohsiung, Taiwan, shares her emotional journey from Taiwan to Baltimore for college at Johns Hopkins University. Initially overwhelmed by homesickness, Chung missed the familiar comforts of her childhood, including family and favorite foods. However, during her junior year, she experienced a shift, realizing that her friends in Baltimore had become her new family, providing support and joy. To cope with her feelings of homesickness, she and her friend Enoch recreated traditional Taiwanese dishes, which helped her maintain a connection to her culture. Chung describes the warmth and chaos of her friendships, highlighting shared moments of laughter and support. As she approaches graduation, Chung reflects on the deep bonds she has formed and expresses gratitude for the people who have embraced her, stating that they remind her of home. This narrative emphasizes the transformative power of friendship and community in navigating life’s challenges.