Meet Alex, a shy but determined engineering student at the University of Waterloo. Growing up in a small town, Alex often felt like an outsider, preferring the company of books and computers to large social gatherings. Last summer, Alex landed an exciting internship at a prestigious tech firm in Menlo Park, California. Eager to gain experience, Alex navigated the complexities of the Bay Area's housing market, opting for a modest Airbnb to save money despite the high costs. Though sometimes doubting their decisions, Alex's adventurous spirit drives them to embrace new opportunities, hoping to build connections and confidence along the way.