It’s been a year and a half since I arrived in Australia. Reflecting on the many challenges I’ve faced, I feel genuinely proud and give myself a well-earned pat on the back. The Visa and Airport Hurdles My university programme started in February last year, but even though I applied for my student visa in October the previous year, I still hadn’t received a response as the start date drew closer. Without a confirmed visa, I couldn’t book flights or accommodation. To be ready to depart as soon as possible, I packed my belongings early and spent months living next to four fully loaded suitcases in an empty apartment. During this time, I kept in regular contact with the university department. I’m genuinely grateful for the support they gave me during such a stressful and uncertain period. (Calling the Home Affairs Department to ask about my visa is another long, long story) The visa finally came through on the last day of February. I left as soon as I could, but the hurdles didn’t end there. At the airport’s check-in counter, the airline was unable to find my valid visa and had to contact the Australian authorities for an authorisation…
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