When you move to a new country, you expect to feel like a bit of an outsider—it’s part of the experience. But one of the most surprising things I’ve encountered is how locals perceive my journey. I didn’t anticipate that they’d not only notice my efforts but also take pride in my achievements.

After landing my job in marketing (which came about in a roundabout way thanks to some bad advice—click here to read more about that!), I felt proud of all the hard work I had put in to get there. What I didn’t expect was how much the locals would appreciate that hard work too. It wasn’t just my accomplishment—it became a talking point for others, including the owner of the company. I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard him tell suppliers or other important contacts, “This is Jessica, our marketing guru—came here right after high school and worked her way up.” Every time, it made me smile.

It’s funny, I always thought I’d have to work hard to prove myself, that I’d be seen as just another foreigner. But instead, I found that locals admired my determination and even saw my success as a point of pride. Their positive perception of my journey helped me feel more connected and supported in my new environment.

One key lesson I’ve learned is that if you find yourself in a place where the locals don’t seem to be on your side, it might not be a reflection of you—perhaps it’s a sign you’re in the wrong place. When you’re in the right environment, people will recognize and celebrate your efforts, even if you’re not from around there.