Sopheak’s Thoughts on International Sisterhood (and Valentine’s Day)
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Sopheak Thy is a freshman at Bucknell University. She reflects on her journey to the U.S. and the importance of sisterhood.
The redness of the roses, the puffiness of the stuffed bears, and the heart-shaped balloons are some of the distinct characteristics of Valentine’s Day. Growing up in Cambodia, I never adopted the traditional Valentine’s Day celebrations. It seemed more fitting for couples in romantic relationships. But three weeks into my college journey, I redefined Valentine’s Day as the celebration and embodiment of self-love and womanhood. |
In the midst of this challenging time, I was fortunate to receive caring support from my SHE-CAN mentors, sisters, staff members, and most importantly, other international students who have become a major part of my home here in the U.S.
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My biggest highlight of this time was meeting and getting to know a group of young empowered women who have persevered through many challenges in their own countries to achieve their goals. For the last few weeks that we’ve met, they have made my transition to my new lifestyle a lot easier.
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My first Valentine’s Day celebration was with these wonderful women that I’ve met. The whole weekend was well spent on small conversations, sharing meals, dressing up, and getting to know each other more. We spent the evening loving ourselves, supporting each other, and embracing the challenges and empowerment that comes with being women in a patriarchal society. It was a much needed weekend that everybody deserves. Now to me, Valentine’s Day is the strength of our heart, the persistence of our soul, the encouragement of our love, and the beauty of our existence.
