The weight of the world: Iranian students in Australia face unique challenges
Aida's story is a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by international students, especially those from Iran. As an Iranian postgraduate student in Australia, Aida's excitement for the new academic year is overshadowed by the stress of managing her studies, work, and the overwhelming fear for her loved ones back home.
Aida, whose name has been changed for her safety, is one of over 800,000 international students in Australia. She juggles her academic pursuits with earning an income, a common challenge for many students. However, her situation is uniquely difficult due to the recent violent events in Iran.
But here's where it gets controversial... Aida, like many other Iranian students, is dealing with the emotional trauma of witnessing a violent crackdown on protesters in her homeland. The restricted phone and internet access has only added to her fears, leaving her unable to contact her family and friends, unsure of their well-being.
"We could not message our loved ones, and we didn't know if they were alive or not. It's a constant worry," she shared.
Aida, on a scholarship, is pursuing her PhD in science while working an office job to make ends meet. Despite her busy schedule, her worries about friends and colleagues in Iran never cease.
"Students in Iran have lost friends, and many are still fighting. We, the Iranian students outside of Iran, are trying our best to be their voice," she explained.
And this is the part most people miss... The recent protests in Iran have had a profound impact on the health and well-being of Iranian students abroad. Aida, for instance, has been unable to sleep for over 20 days, constantly receiving notifications of deaths and arrests.
"It's a difficult time for us. Many of us have no family here in Australia. We came to pursue our dreams, but we're on our own," she said.
Parisa Glass, a senior lecturer at the University of New South Wales who fled Iran as a teenager, understands the emotional and financial struggles of Iranian students. She believes the ongoing stress may affect their academic performance.
"Many parents sell everything to send their children abroad for education. But with the collapsing currency and economic chaos, their funds don't go far. Students are working multiple jobs, impacting their academic performance," Glass explained.
Limited internet access in Iran has also affected prospective international students, making it difficult to apply for studies abroad.
Elli Irannezhad, a member of the International Community of Iranian Academics, appeals to Australian universities for leniency, suggesting extensions for deadlines, financial support, and free counseling services.
"My hope is for a democratic Iran, where all Iranians can lead normal lives, like in many other countries," Irannezhad said.
For Iranian students like Aida, watching events from afar is a private battle. "We're ashamed we can't do more for our loved ones. We wait anxiously for news, hoping our loved ones are still alive," she shared.
What are your thoughts on the challenges faced by international students, especially those from Iran? How can we better support them during these difficult times? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
