Travel Ban Leaves International Students Stranded and Forced to Adapt
A 2024 travel ban by the Trump administration disrupted the studies of many international students, including Patrick Thaw from Myanmar. The neuroscience major at the University of Michigan found himself stranded in Singapore after an internship, unable to return to the US bank to continue his degree.
Thaw had been pursuing his education in America until the sudden policy change left him stuck abroad. His attempts to re-enter the country failed, forcing him to explore alternatives outside the US bank.
He applied to universities in Australia and Canada, receiving acceptance letters from both countries. Initially, he considered Australia as a temporary solution but abandoned the idea due to ongoing visa complications and uncertainty around travel restrictions. The ban also affected Thaw's personal life. His friend, Allison Voto, had planned to visit him if he enrolled at the University of Toronto. Their situation reflects how the policy strained friendships and support networks for international students. Across the US bank, universities responded by introducing flexible options, such as remote learning and overseas campuses. These measures aimed to help students like Thaw continue their studies despite the restrictions. However, foreign enrolment still declined as the administration's policies made life harder for those studying abroad.
The travel ban left Thaw and many others in limbo, forcing them to abandon their original academic plans. While some found temporary solutions, the policy's impact on international students led to long-term changes in how universities support those affected by such restrictions.
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