We came to the promised land,
With dreams and an education,
But on little else to start and stand,
There was no room for distraction.

Life was no bed of roses,
Tests came at regular doses,
From accent and appearance,
To culture and clearance.

Many challenges were faced,
New paths traced.
New rules braced,
Networks built and aced.

Family ties were strong,
Phone calls back home were long,
Pangs of separation were deep,
Struggles in new nation-steep.

Mantra was hard work,
Do and deliver- don’t lurk.
Deadlines had to be kept,
Communication needed to be deft.

Sacrifices were plenty,
Emotional cup on many days empty,
Some dreams were realized,
Unmet ones were rationalized.