“X” arrived in the United States eager to get a masters degree and further his education so that he could return to ****** where he could better help his country. But life as an international student took several unexpected turns including the birth of his second child and, more alarmingly, a new American government hostile to immigrants.
When we first proposed to tell the story of “X”, the plan wasn’t to hide his face and any identifying details. That was back in January when everyone expected things to be bad, but not as bad as things have become. As a precaution, his face will be blurred for the entire video, and certain details have been bleeped out.
Public Media Network believes in the First Amendment and in telling important stories when they need to be told. We chose to protect “X” because he and his family shouldn’t be endangered for the sake of “a good story.”
In this 17-minute video, “X” shares what motivated him to come to the U.S. as an international student, what it’s like to leave a comfortable life at home to pursue an advanced degree in another country, his hopes and fears for his children, and the glint of hope that keeps him going.
We hope you find the story of “X” insightful and inspirational. Please share it with your friends and family as hearing the stories like his matter now more than ever.
