Anya

1. Where are you from?

Brest, Belarus.

2. How long have you been in the USA?

I have been living in the USA for 11 years.

3. What do you feel — where is your home now? Or what is your home now?

It is a tough question. I do consider the U.S. my home now, but at the same time, my family and friends are still in Belarus — so it’s going to be my home forever.

4. If you feel that the USA has become your home, how long did it take to feel that way? Did you do anything to help make it feel like home, or did the feeling come naturally over time?

It took me about five years to start feeling that the USA was my home. At first, it was challenging because everything felt so different — but exciting at the same time.

As I started hanging out with people and finding spots I liked, it made me feel better. Over time, it just felt more natural.

5. What helps you feel at home in a new place?

I’ve realized that relationships with people who make me feel accepted, loved, and understood help me feel at home.

Creating routines and finding places that I enjoy — like a favorite café or park — also makes a big difference.

6. Has your sense of home changed over time? What does “home” mean to you now, after moving to a new country?

Yes, my sense of home has definitely evolved. Initially, I thought of home as just a physical place where I grew up. But after moving, I realized home is more about where I feel safe and comfortable than just a place on the map.

Now, home is a mix of people, experiences, and places that together make me feel like I belong.

7. Who or what makes you feel like you belong somewhere? Why? For example: Parents? Friends? Culture or language? Nature? Or maybe something else?

Friends and close family make me feel like I belong. When I’m with people who understand me and share the same language or culture, it helps me feel connected.

8. Do you think it’s possible to have more than one home? Why or why not?

I do believe it’s possible to have more than one home. People can build meaningful lives in different places. Home isn’t just a single spot — it’s where your heart feels full, which can happen in more than one location.

9. What advice would you give to someone who is trying to feel at home in a new country?

I would say: just be patient and don’t rush it. Try to meet people, keep some things from your old life, but also dive into new things. Find little routines or places that feel comfy. Feeling at home takes time — and that’s totally okay.

10. How do you say “home” in your native language (using English letters)?

Dom