When I moved abroad, my mother was fearful and jealous. It strained our relationship, but I had to chase my dreams.

• 08/19/2024, 9:50 AM
• businessinsider.com

Courtesy of Courtney Cardini

At 20, my parents were not thrilled about me studying abroad. They encouraged personal growth but were aware of the potential consequences of traveling alone. I believed that growth required stepping out of my comfort zone, and my naive ambition couldn't be deterred.