Music has a way of capturing the emotions and memories of different phases in our lives, and my journey abroad has been no exception. From the excitement and challenges of moving to a new country to the moments of triumph and adaptation, here’s a soundtrack that defines each chapter of my experience living abroad.

1. Moving to Australia Alone to Study and Work, Without Speaking the Language:

• “Don’t Stop Believin’” - Journey

This classic anthem reminds me to keep pushing forward, even when the odds are against me. It was the perfect motivator during those early days when I was navigating a new country and language.

• “Learning to Fly” - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

This song encapsulates the feeling of taking a leap of faith and learning to soar in unfamiliar territory.

2. Starting University Abroad and Feeling Lost in a Completely Different System:

• “Lost” - Coldplay

A fitting song for those moments of confusion and adaptation. It reassures me that it’s okay to feel lost sometimes—eventually, I’ll find my way.

• “Here Comes the Sun” - The Beatles

A hopeful reminder that things will get brighter and better as I adjust to my new environment.

3. Starting to Work in My Field and Still Struggling with English, Yet Managing to Get By:

• “Stronger” - Kanye West

This track is my personal anthem for overcoming obstacles and getting stronger with each challenge.

• “Survivor” - Destiny’s Child

For every moment I felt like giving up, this song reminded me that I’m capable of pushing through and thriving, no matter the odds.

4. Moving to Portugal and Feeling Like They Were Speaking a Different Language:

• “Another Brick in the Wall” - Pink Floyd

A song that resonated with my feelings of trying to fit into a system that felt alien, even though the language was technically familiar.

• “Unwritten” - Natasha Bedingfield

A reminder that every new chapter is a blank page, and it’s up to me to write my own story as I navigate this new country.

5. Falling in Love with Ireland After Moving There:

• “Galway Girl” - Ed Sheeran

This upbeat track perfectly captures the charm and spirit of Ireland, a country I quickly fell in love with.

• “The Parting Glass” - The High Kings

A beautiful traditional Irish song that evokes the deep emotional connections I made with the country and its people.

6. Returning to Portugal and Finally Feeling Like Part of the Community:

• “Home” - Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

This song represents the feeling of finally finding my place and feeling at home, even in a foreign land.

• “Better Together” - Jack Johnson

A celebration of the connections and relationships that made me feel like I truly belong.

7. Moving to Switzerland and Still Trying to Adjust:

• “New Soul” - Yael Naim

A song that perfectly reflects the experience of being new in a place and learning how to navigate a different world.

• “Vienna” - Billy Joel

A gentle reminder to be patient with myself during this transition—after all, everything takes time, and there’s no rush to figure it all out.