My Early Years Living Abroad in Indonesia

Growing up as an expat kid, I experienced a life that was far from ordinary. My early years living abroad in Indonesia shaped my perspective in ways I never could have imagined. It wasn’t just about where I lived—it was about the cultural immersion, the diversity of experiences, and the richness of connections that expanded my worldview.

Living Abroad During My Formative Years

“I think as an expat lifestyle, you look at the diversification of things you experience, people you meet, even the foods you taste. It was just so much richer than a whole year that you would be back in the States.”

Those words sum up what it meant to live abroad during my early years. My parents worked for the US Embassy and later for an oil company, which brought our family to Indonesia. From fifth grade to twelfth grade, I attended Jakarta International School, an environment that connected me with kids from all over the world.

While many of my peers back in the US grew up with a more traditional life, I spent my childhood navigating cultural diversity, tasting unfamiliar cuisines, and adapting to a new way of life.

The Impact of Living Abroad on My Worldview

Living abroad didn’t just expose me to different people—it taught me about the beauty of diversity. Whether it was joining celebrations with local friends or appreciating the variety of food, life in Indonesia offered a global perspective that many don’t experience until later in life.

When I returned to the Bay Area for university, I realized how much those formative years abroad shaped who I had become. The experiences gave me an edge: an ability to adapt quickly, a love for exploring new cultures, and an openness to embrace change.

Why Living Abroad Was Transformational

The opportunity to live abroad as a child was invaluable. I witnessed firsthand the ways different cultures coexist and thrive. It prepared me for the global lifestyle I would later lead in my professional career.

Looking back, living abroad as an expat kid wasn’t always easy, but it was enriching. Those years in Indonesia not only broadened my horizon—they instilled in me a love for global living that remains with me to this day.

My early years living abroad taught me that the world is full of opportunities to grow, learn, and connect. Whether it’s through the foods we taste, the friendships we build, or the challenges we navigate, living abroad offers an experience unlike any other.