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Starting the Iowa Writers' Workshop has been a transformative experience for me, combining my passion for storytelling with a deep exploration of my cultural and personal identity. As someone who was born in Canada but spent early years in Shanghai, returning to these roots after nearly two decades has opened a floodgate of emotions and memories that have deeply influenced my writing. The duality of navigating different cultures, the struggles of immigrant families, and the bittersweet sense of loss and belonging are themes I constantly wrestle with. One of the most profound realizations during this journey has been how grief and healing coexist. After losing my mother, I found solace in investing in experiences and items that remind me of her presence—whether it’s that expensive jacket I sometimes justify as her gift or the moments when I laugh at quirky new phrases I pick up around town. These fragments of life become the texture of stories I want to tell, adding layers of emotional authenticity. Participating in the Iowa Writers' Workshop has also been a lesson in community. Connecting with peers who are equally passionate about literature but come from diverse paths enriches my perspective. Whether sharing the anxiety of finishing undergrad or celebrating milestones like acceptance into graduate programs, these relationships push me to grow and refine my craft. For aspiring writers, I recommend embracing your personal history and emotions as wellsprings of creativity—they are unique and compelling. Also, don’t shy away from the messiness of the creative process; sometimes the best writing comes from candid, unpolished moments. Finally, seek out communities or workshops where you can receive constructive feedback and support—it makes all the difference in developing your voice. This path isn’t just about honing technical skills; it’s about understanding yourself better through the stories you tell and the lives you touch with your words.