María Fernanda Beltrán Vanegas
Colombia
Hometown
My hometown and New York are two completely different worlds. I was born in Colombia, where people live closely connected and spend time together constantly. Growing up, I was surrounded by family, neighbors, and friends; we played together, explored parks, and enjoyed a strong sense of community. Quality time is a priority, and being close to others is deeply ingrained in Colombian culture. Life revolves around relationships, with family and friends forming an essential part of daily life. Later, I spent time in Argentina, where social life is also central but has a unique cultural twist. People gather frequently, often around barbecues and there’s always a reason to celebrate and be together. Quality of life is emphasized, and it’s common to take a nap in the afternoon. There’s even a “Friendship Day” where everything closes so people can spend time with their friends. Having a family doesn’t mean letting go of friendships; you continue to stay close to childhood friends. In Argentina, the idea of living well and enjoying time with others is a core part of life.
When I moved to New York, adjusting to the social differences was a challenge. Here, people tend to be more reserved and individualistic, with a strong focus on work and personal goals. The pace of life is much faster, and social gatherings don’t happen as naturally as in Colombia or Argentina. People often prioritize work or other commitments over meeting with friends, and sometimes, you need to reach out several times to arrange a get-together. The focus on
productivity and financial goals can make life feel very different from the community-centered environment I grew up in. During my first year in New York, I often felt lonely, especially during
the holiday season. December was particularly hard because it seemed like everyone around me was spending time with established friend groups and family, while I was still finding my place. Joining new social circles wasn’t easy, as many people had their close-knit groups that was difficult to break into. However, over time, I started finding a sense of belonging, especially through my boyfriend’s friends. Through his circle, I felt more integrated and connected to a new social scene. Although language can sometimes still be a barrier, I feel more comfortable now, especially as the women in his group tend to be more social and enjoy getting together, similar to Argentina.
Reflecting on these experiences, I’ve come to appreciate the close-knit, community-driven culture of Colombia and Argentina. New York offers a different lifestyle that values independence and ambitions, and while it was initially challenging, I am learning to balance my roots with the new social dynamics I find myself in.
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