Two suitcases, two worlds: A journey from student visa to Australian Citizenship
By Rinchaal Patel,
Mindset and Relationship
Coach, YOLO Academy
When I first arrived in Australia as a wide- eyed 18-years old in the 2000s on a student visa, my suitcase was full of Maggi packets, Parle-G, and familial expectations. I had no idea how profoundly this journey would shape me. Initially, like any other 18-year-old, I was relieved that I can now finally sleep-in and do things my own way and won’t have parents waking me up early to study for exams. I was finally going to be free.
Little did I realise that this move here would come up with its own challenges and would push me so far out of my comfort zone. Back then, “international student” wasn’t a lifestyle brand, it was a test of resilience. Today, as an Australian citizen looking back, I see both how far we have come and how much has changed for those arriving now.
To the younger migrants stepping off planes today: welcome. You are about to begin one of the most transformative chapters of your life. And yes, things are easier now in many ways. But in some ways, they are also harder.
When I arrived, there was no WhatsApp, no social media platforms that allowed you to make calls back home so freely. Calling home meant carefully rationed minutes on a prepaid phone card, often with a queue of other homesick students waiting behind you. Today, you can video call your parents while walking down street.
We did not have no Google Maps/ sharing live locations guiding you to your lecture theatre, or to places unknown. If you got lost, you asked a stranger or just accepted your fate. We learned how to navigate public transport without apps. There was a quiet pride in figuring things out the hard way. Today, technology has removed many of those barriers, but it has also made it easier to stay isolated.
So, here’s my first advise: Be present in the world you are in, rather than living in two worlds. Put your phones away and talk to the people around you who don’t understand your accent. Make friends outside your desi friends group and explore different cultures that make Australia a desirable place to live. Growth happens when you immerse yourself here. Your Australian experience shouldn’t just be academic; it should be deeply human.
Back in the 2000s, survival skills came before social life. We learned how to cook, out of necessity, ready-to-eat packs of curries only tasted good when we were hungry or in a bind, but the costs would start adding up, and eating takeout everyday was not feasible.
We learned how to budget every dollar, and it somehow is the same for those coming today, but there are options of having tiffin services that provide home cooked meals at a reasonable price. There are also more frozen food options now available. You can even learn to cook something watching Youtube vidoes, insta reels.
Even though the costs are higher, competition is tougher, and part-time work is more structured now, the principle remains the same: respect your money. Every dollar you earn represents your time, your effort, and often your family’s sacrifices back home. Budget wisely. Avoid the temptation to “live like an influencer.” Those $25 brunches on the weekend do tend to add up.
Here’s my second piece of advice: convenience can quietly limit your growth. Learn to cook, not just because it’s cheaper, but because it’s grounding. Say yes to invitations, even when they feel unfamiliar. Share our culture through food with strangers. Food has a magical way of turning strangers into friends. And yes, try vegemite at least once.
Another thing that hasn’t changed much is the emotional rollercoaster.
There will be days when you feel incredibly independent and proud and others when you wonder why you ever left home. That’s normal. I still remember my first Diwali, going to the temple, no firecrackers only sparklers, no loud music or fun with cousins. However,
I wasn’t alone in this experience. There were many others like me at the temple, sharing the magic of Diwali away from home, with friends and strangers who were feeling the same mixed emotions I was feeling, sad from being away from families but taking comfort that we could still celebrate it. It wasn’t the same as celebrating with family, but it was beautiful in its own way.
Here’s my third piece of advice: You are not losing your culture, you are expanding it. Yes, celebrations may not be the same as they were back home, it is about being part of the community and engaging in activities that nurture the feelings of belonging in us. Attend events hosted by different icons of the community and enjoy the modified taste of the culture.
Let’s talk about the pressure many of us felt in the early days. The pressure to “fit in”. Some tried to hide their accents, their food, even their names. Today, Australia is far more multicultural and accepting, but that doesn’t mean identity struggles have disappeared.
Here’s my last piece of advice? Own who you are. Your story, your migration journey, is your strength. Your bilingual brain, your adaptability, your ability to navigate different worlds, these are assets, not limitations. Don’t dilute them to blend in.
Years from now, you will remember the lifelong friends you made sharing the journey, your chosen family. You will remember the good days and the impact of every struggle had on your life choices. You will remember the resilience you uncovered and the person you became along the way. You will remember the moments that made you feel at home in a place that once felt foreign.
Australia gave me more than a degree. It gave me perspective, resilience, and a second home.
It will do the same for you, if you let it.
The Vedas represent the oldest layer of Sanskrit literature and the oldest scriptures of Hinduism. Derived from the root word Vid (to know), “Veda” literally translates to “Knowledge.” They are not considered the compositions of human authors but are categorized as Shruti—that which is “heard” or revealed. According to tradition, ancient sages (Rishis) perceived these eternal truths in states of deep meditation and articulated them into the hymns we study today.
Saving tax probably won’t let you retire at 45. It probably won’t make you a millionaire. It might, at best, upgrade you from a regular latte to the one with oat milk and a fancy sprinkle of cinnamon.
Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (UCCs) provide quick, convenient medical care for a wide range of health problems, ones that are not a life-threatening emergency.
If pregnant, clinics may also offer opportunistic syphilis testing, which helps protect both the mother and the baby.
I’m delighted to begin this April edition of the Australian Indian Times by acknowledging a significant date in our calendar, 111 years since Australian and New Zealand troops first landed during the Gallipoli campaign. ANZAC Day offers us a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by soldiers and animals who served with courage and dedication.
This year, I will be marching and attending the Forest Lake RSL Sub Branch ceremony at the Lake Parklands in Forest Lake. I still recall attending this service when I was around four years old, which makes it especially meaningful to return and take part alongside my school friends and community leaders. I encourage you to attend a local service or simply place a candle at dawn and pay your respects from home. For more information, please contact your local RSL.
This is a significant day in our national calendar. The Australian and New Zealand Army Corps was established in 1914 in Egypt, bringing together the Australian Imperial Force and the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. The name “ANZAC” has become a lasting symbol of mateship, resilience, and sacrifice. It is also important to recognise the contributions of Indian and British soldiers who fought alongside the ANZACs. Around 16,000 Indian troops served in the Gallipoli campaign, with approximately 1,600 losing their lives. Their bravery remains an important part of our shared history.A highlight from last month was participating in the Cancer Council fundraiser coordinated by Kylie Gates. A heartfelt thank you to Mandeep Kaur, Vice President of GOPIO Brisbane, for taking part in the walk. I’m also grateful to readers of the Australian Indian Times as one participant shared that they discovered the event through this column.
Originally from South India, Will has lived and worked across the world—from Dubai to regional Australia—before settling locally. Fluent in multiple languages, he has created a welcoming pharmacy environment that reflects the diversity of our community. His approach is simple yet powerful: a smile, genuine care, and a commitment to building one-on-one relationships. I was honoured to join him as he celebrated his first year anniversary in business, marked by community education, a family-friendly petting zoo, and plans for future events.
I’ve been incredibly encouraged by the positive feedback from readers. This is why I also want to highlight a growing local and international concern—the rising cost of fuel. Reports, including coverage from multiple news outlets and everyday observations across our communities, suggest that fuel supply pressures could lead to increased costs when buying groceries or dining out, impacting households and farmers alike. Increased transport costs inevitably flow through to everyday expenses, placing added pressure on families.
During these times, I encourage everyone to explore practical ways to ease financial pressure—whether it’s checking eligibility for community transport support (Council cabs), considering carpooling, looking into electric vehicles and salary sacrificing, or even growing your own vegetables at home. Personally, I’ve started walking more, gardening, and sharing produce with neighbours. These small steps not only help financially but also strengthen community connections. Now more than ever, compassion and mateship are what define us as Australians.
Please also take care of your mental health. I’ve recently joined the Wolston Park Cricket Club social cricket sessions—just $10 a game, open to all ages and abilities. It’s a fantastic way to unwind, stay active, and connect with others. In a world full of pressures, it’s important to pause and remember what truly matters—our families, friends, and community. I also had the pleasure of attending the 2026 City of Logan People’s Excellence Awards, where I caught up with Cr Nathan St Ledger and Cr Scott Bannan, both of whom are passionate about youth mental health and its importance.
A special mention also goes to community champions and organisations supporting International Women’s Day celebrations, including ISCA, led by Roshni Sharma, and the many volunteers who made these events so meaningful. These are the groups that strengthen our multicultural community and provide support for both the mind and soul.
An engaging gathering at Mt Ommaney Library highlights values-based living, intergenerational learning and community connection Brisbane, 21 March 2026 — The Connect @ Mahamane gathering, held at Mt Ommaney Library, brought together community members for an evening of interactive learning, cultural reflection and meaningful connection. The event showcased how values-based initiatives can strengthen communities while empowering individuals across all age groups.
One of the most engaging segments of the evening was the interactive activity “Act the Value”, where participants expressed values through short role-plays. This was followed by “Guess the Value”, where attendees identified values from real-life scenarios, sparking thoughtful discussions and collaborative learning.