Almost exactly one month ago, I successfully defended my thesis. Since then, I've been putting off the remainder of the graduation procedures, mainly due to visa concerns. You see, the minute I officially graduate (ie. turn in my completed thesis, print the hardcover copies and receive my diploma), I will forfeit my student status and therefore, will be forced to leave Taiwan 2 weeks later. It truly sucks that a joyous occasion like finishing my program is also a cause for visa concern.
However, it was always a goal of mine to finish before my 29th birthday. So, with my birthday 4 days away, I've decided to just turn it in and then deal with the consequences. This means, I'm going to have to leave the country probably by the 1st week of February due to my expiring visa. Once I do that, I can come back to Taiwan on a "landing visa" and then I'll have an extra *90 days to look for work.
As much as I'd like to say that I'd probably stay in Taiwan for those 90 days, the other issue I then face is MONEY. How will I ever financially support myself for those 90 days? Sure, I could teach english. BUT, teaching takes time away from LOOKING FOR WORK (which is my main priority). Such a conundrum huh? Anyway, this is what I'm dealing with recently.
And although I've had this visa issue on the back of my mind, I've been feeling great otherwise. Even my parents noticed last night, on our weekly skype date. They couldn't stop saying how happy I looked, and you know what, they're right. For now, life is good. And I'm a happy girl.
*ETA: After some research, I realized I was sadly mistaken about Taiwan giving me a 90 day landing visa. It's actually 30 days...HUGE difference. This just adds more stress and more pressure. Just awesome.
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