The Unexpected Journey

I was graduated from high school in 2018, then started the foundation course in Malaysia in April of the following year. Before that, studying abroad was something I never really thought much of. Until one day my parents asked me about my intention to study abroad in Perth as they were able to support me financially and my sister was there too. I know that studying abroad is actually one of the things on my dad’s bucket list as he lacked financial support when he was my age. Therefore, I decided to fulfill his dream as well as grab the chance to see more of the world and enhance my personal growth as I know that it can be a life-changing experience for me.

Unfortunately, the night before my last exam, also the last day of college, which is on the 16th of March 2020, the Malaysian government announced a nationwide lockdown due to the Covid-19 outbreak. From that day onwards, the Covid-19 cases in Malaysia increased gradually, and Malaysia’s Movement Control Order has lasted for 1 year, 7 months and 2 weeks. During that period of time, I feel anxious and lost in life due to isolation, endless restrictions and uncertainty about the future. To enrich my life, I started my career as an office assistant in registry department. That was my first office job and I finally understood why people say that they miss that time of study when entering the workforce. Through that experience, I feel most appreciated the opportunity to study abroad and truly cherished my university experience. I finally saw my hopes materialise when Malaysia had a direct flight to Perth after a long period of waiting.

6 March 2022 is when my youthful vacation began. From the time I packed my luggage until boarding, I felt like I was in a dream and I started to feel reluctant to leave my home. At the airport, I waved to my parents with a fake smile and avoided hugs to hold back my tears. However, my tears ran down my face while looking through the plane window. I told myself that I must cherish the hard-won opportunity to study overseas and enjoy every moment I have in Perth. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my parents for all the sacrifices they’ve made for me and my sister. This is how the unexpected study abroad journey begins.