A professor in Taiwan had read one of my research papers.
Her name was Professor Lin Yu-ting.
She worked at National Taiwan University and specialized in thermal transport, advanced materials, and precision manufacturing.
She invited me to apply for a graduate research program.
I stared at the email for nearly an hour.
Taiwan.
I had never been there.
I didn't speak Mandarin beyond a few phrases.
And I knew almost nothing about living in Taipei.
But the research opportunity was extraordinary.
Professor Lin's laboratory had access to equipment and manufacturing expertise I couldn't easily obtain in my current position.
More importantly, she seemed genuinely interested in the questions I wanted to explore.
I showed the message to Mom.
She read it carefully.
Then looked up.
“Taiwan?”
I nodded.
“Taipei.”
She considered that.
“That's a long way from Detroit.”
“I know.”
“Are you excited?”
I hesitated.
Then smiled.
“Terrified.”
Mom laughed.
“That's usually how the good opportunities start.”
I applied.
Months later, I received an offer.
The scholarship covered important academic expenses and provided some support, but it didn't mean I'd become financially comfortable.
Living abroad required planning.
Rent.
Food.
Transportation.
Insurance.
Research costs.
And the legal expenses associated with protecting an independent invention.
I knew it would be difficult.
But I accepted.
On the day I left Detroit, Mom drove me to the airport.
She hugged me beside the departure entrance.
Then stepped back.
For a moment, her eyes filled.
“You call when you land.”
I smiled.
“Of course.”
“And eat properly.”
“I will.”
“And don't spend all your money trying to prove you're independent.”
I laughed.
“Mom.”
She raised one eyebrow.
“I'm serious.”
I hugged her again.