The 16th of February 2009 was my day of departure. I had to leave my country, in which I had lived for 20 years with all of my family and friends. I was overcome by my emotions and, at the same time, excited to discover a new world. On the way to the airport, I wondered why I was leaving. I thought – I’m going to be by myself somewhere I know nothing about, and where I know no-one… I started to wisely say to myself that it would probably be the best adventure of my life and that I had to take that opportunity for all of the others not able to leave France. I had to pass the security check and say goodbye to all of my lovely family and friends. It was hard and emotional, but I had faith and so I left for Perth.

After a 22 -hour flight, I finally arrived in Perth. I was very tired and lost. I had an extreme heartache as I thought about everything that I had left behind in France. But thankfully, the homestay family whom I have lived with since I arrived is fantastic. I have built really strong bonds with them, as if they were my real family. After one week, I had already found a job, made friends and settled into my new University.