Exploring the West: A Journey of Discovery by Jiyoung Noh

At the Literacy Center of West Michigan, we help adults build the literacy and language skills they need to reach their goals. The Learner Spark is one way we celebrate that growth—it's our in-house magazine written by learners, for learners. Each story highlights the goals, challenges, and achievements of our learners in their own words. Read Jiyoung's story here:

Traveling has always been a passion of mine, and since coming to the U.S., I’ve had the opportunity to explore new places with my family. One of the most memorable trips we took was a road trip across the western United States. We started in Las Vegas, then made our way through San Diego and Los Angeles, experiencing the vastness and beauty of the country along the way. 

Driving through the seemingly endless highways, I couldn’t help but think about how huge and resource-rich the U.S. is. The landscapes changed dramatically as we moved from one state to another—from the neon-lit energy of Las Vegas to the coastal charm of San Diego and the bustling streets of Los Angeles. 

One of the highlights of our journey was visiting Joshua Tree National Park. Watching the sunset there was an unforgettable experience. The sky was painted in shades of pink, orange, and purple, casting a magical glow over the desert landscape. 

But the most breathtaking moment came at night. For the first time in my life, I saw countless stars twinkling above me, more than I had ever imagined possible. The vast, open sky made me feel incredibly small yet deeply connected to the world. 

It has been almost two years since I moved to the U.S., and through traveling, I have learned to see the world from a broader perspective. This trip was more than just sightseeing—it was a journey of personal growth and appreciation. I came back feeling even more in love with this country, grateful for the experiences that have shaped me. 

This trip reminded me that the world is vast and full of wonders, waiting to be explored. I look forward to more adventures, discovering new places, and embracing the beauty of different cultures along the way.

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