A Rocky Start in Ann Arbor π’π
My journey began with visa delays β resigned on the 25th, flew to the U.S. on the 28th π«, everything felt rushed. I didnβt have time to pack properly, so Iβm still waiting for my sea-shipped belongings and living out of a half-unpacked suitcase π§³. School hit faster than I expected. After a long weekend lying around during Labor Day, I suddenly realized every class already had assignments piling up ππ³. Even the universe seemed to conspire against me β I ordered a bed frame and mattress online π¦, carefully checked the size, but they delivered the wrong one. Then my bank back home refused to mail my new card to my U.S. number. Having lived in Shanghai for so long, I was used to convenience and buzz. Here, everything feelsβ¦ quiet. Maybe too quiet ποΈ. But these slow days got me thinking. I miss my time in that small Southern town β the warmth and simplicity that made my student years so precious. I often talked about it after returning to China. Now, back on a campus, my mind has begun to calm, even though some recent dramas really threw me off π. Itβs surreal: two weeks ago, I was working an office job in Shanghai, dancing on weekends π. Now Iβm living in a house, taking school buses π, starting over. Itβs not my first time in the U.S., but rebuilding a life from scratch still takes getting used to. Iβm telling myself: Since youβre here, be here fully. A good mindset is everything π±. As a J-type who loves routine, I enjoy grocery runs π. Once Iβm settled, Iβd love to build a habit of cooking β maybe meet nearby friends for supermarket trips. Thatβs actually how I met my bestie years ago π! I also love skiing πΏ β just learned to link turns β so hopefully can find ski buddies soon! Iβm into nature and short trips too π². A bit embarrassed to say I donβt drive yet β always relied on friends before. But I do plan to get a license and a car π. Would love tips from those with experience! Iβm living at ReNew Ann Arbor β any recommendations for a nearby gym? I know my way around weights and just want to commit to going weekly πͺ. Of course, my main focus is on studying and job hunting π©βπ». Happy to meet for coffee and share progress, struggles, or just good energy! Okay β Iβve written a lot π . Call it a life diary. One day Iβll look back and remember these early days. #UniversityOfMichigan #LifeInAnnArbor #AnnArbor #Umich #Skiing #NewBeginnings