The University of Essex was my first option because of their amazing Study Abroad scheme. It was an easy decision for me applying to this University as I knew exactly what I wanted to do. I worked hard during my first year because I knew my overall grade will play a part in me possibly going on to do year abroad. Fortunately, everything worked in my favour and in February this year I found out I was accepted to go to Sydney, Australia to study in the University of Western Sydney.

Naturally I was very enthusiastic and excited to go but everything changed in May when I was Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. This obviously came as a shock to me but the only thing that kept me going was knowing I had Australia in the near future. Everything got complicated from here on as I was unable to sit my exams and the stress of my health built up quickly. Furthermore, I was kept in the dark about what will happen regarding Australia and my exams for a month during the worst time possible. I had to go through the hassle of writing multiple emails trying to contact various people working for this university just to get answers that I should have already been given, and getting forwarded to departments that had neither information nor relevant answers. I did not get any support from anyone at this University, no consideration was given and the lack of professionalism is very evident.

After a long period of time, and a few sterner emails with the involvement of the office of the independent adjudicator, coincidentally, responses were more frequent. However, this is now very close to the time I should actually be going to Australia which only caused me more stress as I missed multiple deadlines to do with the University of Western Sydney, such as the application of the visa, accommodation, flight tickets etc. The University completely failed at trying to make adjustments. The University could have quite easily let me fulfil my dreams and continue with original plans to go to Australia, and let me take each exam when I'm back. But instead, they have shattered my dreams, and completely swiped the great opportunity of me going and exploring myself in Australia which is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I am devastated not only with their decision but the way they handled my situation, it was not only tiring, but also upsetting to think that the University of Essex completely had no sympathy towards my rare case. However, what is more upsetting is that they kept me in a position where I still had hope of going, due to the University not giving me complete answers.