Student visa to citizenship

Hi everyone, I wanted to share a small piece of good news and a bit of perspective for anyone who might need it.

I moved to Australia on a student visa. From the very beginning, I was clear about one thing: I wanted to do research and eventually pursue a PhD. I knew it wouldn’t be the easiest or most predictable path, especially from an immigration point of view, but it was the work I genuinely cared about.

I gave my absolute best during my master’s degree, and based on academic merit, I was fortunate to receive a full scholarship for my PhD. Between my master’s and PhD, I was on a 485 visa; during the PhD, I was again on a student visa. Later, like many others, I also spent some time on a COVID visa. There were moments of uncertainty, and plenty of well-meaning advice along the way including suggestions to change fields or choose something “simpler” that might lead to PR more easily. I understand why people make those choices, and they are completely valid. But I chose to stay true to what I believed in and the field I loved, even when the road felt long and unclear.

During my PhD, I worked at the university, which helped me gain relevant experience and a positive skills assessment. After completing my PhD, I had a strong points score of 100, and last year I was granted permanent residency as a university lecturer. And today, I officially became an Australian citizen.

Looking back, the journey involved multiple visas, a lot of patience, and moments where nothing felt guaranteed. But it also involved growth, purpose, and doing work that genuinely matters to me. I now love the job I do (Lecturer and an Executive Officer) and feel deeply grateful for how this chapter has unfolded.

I’m sharing this not to compare paths, but simply to encourage anyone who feels torn between following their passion and taking the “safe” or faster route. If you believe in your work and stay committed, even when it’s hard and uncertain, the journey can still end beautifully.

To anyone feeling discouraged or doubting themselves — keep going, trust your instincts and don’t lose sight of what brought you here in the first place. Sometimes choosing your dreams really is worth the wait. ❤️