Landing in the U.S.

Hello! My name is Danna Iguchi and I’m from Peru. I’ve always dreamt about living abroad as an international student, meeting new people, sharing my culture with others, and trying new things. When I was in my 7th semester of university in Peru, the opportunity of doing a work and travel program in the United States came to me. My mom said she would lend me the money and I could give it back when I started working in the US, but a lot of uncertainty arose since COVID-19 was taking the streets and we didn’t know how everything would work with an ongoing pandemic. Spoiler: everything worked out. I would describe the J1 visa experience as one of the best experiences of my life. All the people I met from all around the world, all the friends I made, and all the adventures I lived took me to where I am today. My name is Danna Iguchi, a student at Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC), and I will tell you how I ended up here in Reno, Nevada.

Leaving my comfort zone

Eventually, after 3 years of the work and travel program in the US, I decided I wanted to do something else with my life. I had friends all around the country by this time, and one of those people I met while working told me, “Why don’t you come to Reno with me?” Reno? Where even is that? After some research (A LOT of research), I actually ended up liking the idea of moving to Reno, Nevada. The small city vibe and the closeness to Lake Tahoe really did it for me.

Turns out Reno is a perfect fit

When I came to Reno, the first thing that came to mind was “What did I just do?” Being in a new place that I had never been in before was definitely scary, but after living here for some months, Reno turned into my home—a place I never thought I would like but ended up loving with my whole heart. Reno is so different from all the other cities I’ve lived in.

People usually say “Reno has the energy of a small town,” and I think it’s true. Too big to be a town but too small to be a city, Reno, Nevada, is just that perfect in-between that I was dying to find.

Not just classes, but connections

Studying at Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) has been a great experience. I’ve met so many people not only from the US but also from all around the world. They have taught me so much, and I love being able to teach them about my country and culture too. I’ve learned so much, and even some classes have changed my life since I finally fulfilled my dream of learning how to draw and paint after taking some art classes at TMCC.

Even though I know this adventure has just started, I have had so much fun and lived so many experiences already. It is crazy how much my life has changed in the span of a year. I am so thankful for everybody I’ve met and for all the opportunities I’ve been given. Now you know how I ended up here—Reno and TMCC turned my whole life around, and I couldn’t be happier here. I am excited to be able to share more of my life with you!

Danna Iguchi is an international student from Peru studying at at Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno, Nevada.