The idea of the “American Dream” has long drawn people worldwide, but for many, living it proves far more difficult than imagined. Recently, an Indian woman’s tearful farewell to the United States struck an emotional chord online, highlighting the challenges faced by international students and professionals in pursuit of long-term stability.
After completing her master’s degree in Biotechnology at Northwestern University in 2024, Ananya Joshi began her career under the F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme at a biotech start-up. However, a company-wide downsizing led to her layoff, and as her OPT period neared its end, the pressure to secure new employment intensified.
“By Far the Hardest Step in This Journey”
Despite months of applications, interviews, and networking, Joshi struggled to land a suitable offer. Eventually, she decided to leave the US and shared a video of her departure that quickly went viral. In it, she described the moment as “by far the hardest step in this journey” and admitted that nothing had prepared her for saying goodbye.
Her caption read, “America was my first home as a financially independent adult and that will always be a special thing to me … Though short-lived, I really appreciate the life you gave me. AMERICA, I LOVE YOU.” Through her posts, she confirmed she had relocated to Dubai to begin a new chapter.
Mixed Reactions on Social Media
The farewell video, posted on Instagram, drew widespread attention and sparked mixed reactions. Some users offered heartfelt support. One wrote, “Watching your video had me in tears … the ache, the tears. I can understand how tough it must be for you … may you … achieve that dream again.”
Others, however, questioned the framing of her struggle after noting the video was filmed inside a first-class or business-class cabin. One comment read, “Left the American dream to pursue the Dubai dream and weeping in a first class, such a tough life.” Another added, “Oh to cry in an Emirates business class flight to go from America to Dubai. Living the dream I see. Hope my kids will be as privileged as you are today.”
Some dismissed the ordeal as a “privileged struggle,” noting that not everyone has the resources or opportunities to make such a transition.