Meet Alaine Obra from the Philippines, our newest student blogger

Mabuhay! My name is Alaine Marie Robles Obra, and I am from the Philippines. I am currently in my first semester at Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC), studying for an associate’s degree in computer science.

After finishing my associate’s, I aim to transfer to the University of Nevada, Reno for my bachelor’s degree in computer science (or engineering — I have yet to think it through).

How did I end up here?

Growing up, I had been exposed to an abundance of cultural backgrounds though coming and staying here was absolutely spontaneous for me. One random day, on an almost post-pandemic day in September of 2021, mid-year in my computer engineering program in the Philippines, my family and I visited grandma in Carson City — she had moved here with her late husband. We kept her company, toured, and visited some family friends.

Fortunately, I was given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. My parents asked me if I wanted to continue my studies but in the United States. And here I am! TMCC is not too far from Carson City, which enables me to still take care of my grandmother while studying full-time and working part-time.

Adjustment to my new normal

Life in America has been an eye-opener to more cultures than I’ve encountered before, as the diversity here is rich. Being in close proximity to beautiful nature like the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe, I’m experiencing new things I couldn’t in my hometown (snow is amazing!).

Currently, I work at the International Student Services at TMCC as an International Peer Mentor. It is exciting to learn more about cultures formed beyond American traditions, and helping other students connect and learn as I did is such a fulfilling role to adhere to.

Being able to share my experiences and relate to other international students removes the barrier of feeling alone in my cross-cultural journey and helps fortify the qualities of the Filipino inside me.

Alaine Obra from the Philippines is studying for an associate’s degree in computer science at Truckee Meadows Community College in Reno, Nevada.