Framed by my background and the stories of people I hold dear, transcending borders is a photographic project aimed to capture the experiences of international students and immigrants living in the United States. Through the photographic lens, I explore how these individuals adapt to a new culture while maintaining their cultural identity from home.

Exploring a new city is a unique experience that can be both exhilarating and daunting. For international students and immigrants, this experience is often magnified as they grapple with the challenges of adjusting to a new country, language, culture, and way of life. This project seeks to capture the daily lives of individuals and families as they navigate the complexities of living in a foreign land.

To bring this project to life, I took trips around the city with friends, exploring the different neighborhoods and experiencing the city through our eyes. Here, the concept of “home” is frequently depicted. What does "home" mean for us? Is it the place where we were born and raised, or is it where we feel the most connected and comfortable? How does one reconcile the feelings of homesickness and longing for their country of origin with the excitement and opportunities of a new home? How does one build a sense of community and belonging in a new place, while also maintaining connections with family and friends from home?

For me, home means the sound of my mother's voice, the scent of fish sauce in my comfort meals, or the sights and sounds of the streets I once tread.

In addition to providing a glimpse into the dilemmatic lives of international students and immigrants, the project serves as a celebration of the beauty in culture chronicles and the resilience of individuals who are away from their homes.

Home is not a building nor just a place, it’s the love that fills its borders that make it a sacred place in our hearts.

Though I am far, and sometimes feel alone, I know in my heart that as long as I keep going, I’ll be alright — for home is always waiting. Though miles may stretch between us, and time may pass us by, my heart remains tethered to the place I call my "why.”