September 2013... I had thoughts of choosing another company more than once. My inner voice and intuition told me to go back to the International Exchange Center. And here I am in the office again. I remember Zhuldyz asking, "Dinara, are you sure?!" Back then, I didn't care if I was going alone or with someone else...

April 2014... Interview at the embassy at 10 AM. I was very worried because I had been rejected before. Pulling myself together and not letting my spirits drop, I walked into the consul's booth. By the way, I had improved my English by then, passed the IELTS, and it was better than before. I understood all the questions clearly and answered specifically and briefly. Of course, he asked me about what happened last year. I explained everything as it was; there were problems with work and the interview took place very late. And you know what?! I GOT THE VISA!!! When the consul said, "Ok, your visa is approved," I was on cloud nine. Outside, tears of happiness were already streaming down my face. No one knew this time that I had applied again, except for my family. I immediately called my dad to share the joy and tell him that this time I was definitely going to the USA.

May 29th... Flight at 06:25 AM. That summer, I was supposed to complete my internship in Astana for my major. Luckily, everything worked out, and I left to chase my dream...

At the US airport, at customs control, before they stamp your visa, you go through an interview just like at the embassy. I was worried about that too; I thought about it the entire flight. I had heard stories about some students being turned back to their home country right there. Only after passing through passport control did I realize: NOW I AM IN AMERICA!!!