November 8, 2016.
A date millions were either anxiously expecting or nervously dreading. Election day.
This year's election was tougher than most of us could foresee. Now that we have our results, many of us are living in the uncertainty of what will happen next.
In the past week, I've heard and learned so much about the election that I've felt trapped in the contradiction of not knowing what to do about it and not wanting to not say a word at all. However, I decided to write this article, since even though I am not a citizen of this crazy amazing country, I must admit I owe so much to it, I've come to consider it my second home.
And that's the scary part. Last week, after election night, I didn't feel comfortable. It felt like so many people supported Trump's vision of "making America great again", that it left so many others out. And while I'm just a student, I think the very reason that makes America great is that everyone belongs here. That there is place for everyone. That's not something any other country has in such a great degree. That is the America that's so great to me, and maybe that's why I felt so confused.
Anyway, I'm not here to either oppose or support the Democrats or the Republicans. I'm here to let you know how us international students were feeling this past week about the election results, here's 14 thoughts I had during election night!:
1) Wait...does this mean that I have to leave?
As the night progressed, a tiny fear crept up out of nowhere about my status in this country as a foreigner. Panicking, I google searched if other international students were feeling the same way. According to article after article, they were.
2) No, I'm good
To the international students community: we're good fam.
3) Is this presidential election actually real?
So much anticipation, it's even sad to see it end. Honestly, I've never witnessed such an interesting and entertaining election, when sadly there was so much at stake.
4) I wonder what they're thinking back home.
Not everyone realizes how much of an impact the U.S. election has in other countries. As American policies change, so will situations in our home countries.
5) God, I am afraid now.
Three hours later, and I still dont know what's going to happen.
6) Look at all that red!
When this is yout first time seeing the map change colors and suddenly most of it is red.
7) Well, I couldn't do anything about it.
When you can't vote because you are an international student but you still feel personally affected.
8) This is insane.
The number of votes for each candidate in almost every state were only hundred thousands of people apart. Crazy to think about.
9) Gosh this election is never going to end.
2 a.m. in the morning and still too close to call. I didnt know it took this long!
10) Is he actually going to win?
People said it wouldn't happen. Polls made us doubt. But it did.
11) This is actually very sad.
Politics can cause a lot of tension. Self-reminder: spread love.
12) This is too overwhelming, I am going to bed. Nevermind. Repeat to self.
That akward moment when you remember you have an 8:00 a.m. class to wake up for the next day so you better let America do it's thing.
13) This is affecting me more than I thought.
Especially if you don't tend to follow up on politics that much. Truth be said, an election has never affected me this much.
Note: I have nothing but love and respect for America, and thus the president that gets chosen by its people. I truly hope for a successful upcoming four years!
