Displaced is a story about living in a place without ever really fitting and the reason I chose this story was to mirror how my college years have made me feel.

 

I moved to Texas from India for college and though I met a lot of people it’s never really felt like without family. I struggled with loneliness which led to depression that to date has been the biggest challenge I have faced.

 

Rose Klein is a friend I met freshmen year and we instantly bonded over feeling like a couple of misfits both from different worlds and yet the same brought together seeking companionship. Fast forward to senior year and we’re still a close.

 

As I got to know Rose better I realised that many college students experience loneliness and it isn’t commonly talked about.

 

According to The foundation of art and healing, about 64% of college students experience loneliness.

 

From personal experience, I suffered very much my freshmen and sophomore year until I realized the best way to meet new people is to face the scary and push yourself out of your comfort zone and join clubs or organizations that may spark your interest.

 

Knowing the situation, I wanted to capture the need for human connection in this story and show how humans are such social creatures thriving off society.

 

Rose has had a difficult time and yet she’s so hopeful for the future which is so inspiring and hopeful for those who feel like they’re stuck and having troubles finding their place. I am so thankful to have a friend like her, this is my way of letting her know that I want her to know she’s heard and that she’s made my college life so much better by just keeping me company with her stories, laughs and late night talks.

 

Her story is an inspiration to me all those looking for it because it always helps to know you’re not all alone in this ride we call life.

 

What’s your advice on tackling loneliness?