Learn • Prepare • Connect • Rebuild
#preparing
SO… YOU'RE PREPARING. WHAT NOW?
If your journey moves forward and you are preparing for departure, there can be a lot to think about.
This stage is about learning, planning and getting ready for the possibility of travel and life in America. You may receive official instructions, appointments or information about the next steps in your case. Follow the instructions provided by the organization handling your case. Preparing does not mean assuming. If official travel arrangements have been made for your case, follow the instructions provided and prepare carefully for the next step.
PREPARING ≠ GUARANTEEING
GET READY
KEEP YOUR IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS SAFE
DON'T MAKE DRASTIC DECISIONS
UNDERSTAND LIFE IN AMERICA
THE EMOTIONAL SIDE OF LEAVING
IT'S OKAY IF IT FEELS OVERWHELMING
Arriving in a completely new country can be just as emotional as the long journey it took to get here. While you might expect to feel pure excitement the moment you step off the plane, it is incredibly normal to feel a sudden wave of sensory overload, exhaustion, or even unexpected grief for the familiarity you left behind.
You are stepping into a different culture, navigating unfamiliar systems, and adjusting to a completely new rhythm of life.
Give yourself permission to feel overwhelmed. It isn’t a sign that you made the wrong choice; it’s simply a human response to a massive life transition.
Take a deep breath and take it one day, or even one hour, at a time. Your new beginning doesn't require you to have everything figured out today. You are welcome to join The Afrikaner American online community for emotional support.
The U.S. Office of Refugee Resettlement itself describes its approach in terms of health, well-being and stability, including culturally responsive and trauma-informed services.