A student on an F-1 visa recently shared her horrific story from 4 years ago at the Border which still haunts her as she reconsiders visiting her home country.
The international student took to Reddit to share how she still lives in fear after being denied entry to ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) years ago. CBP (Customs and Border Protection) officers at LAX allegedly tore through her life, mocked her tears, lied about her intent, and sent her back without letting her call her family.
She alleges that one officer even claimed her ex called her a liar. Then, when she followed up, the ex denied saying anything. Even her private texts were twisted into fake “evidence” that she wanted to work illegally.
The officers, after learning she is from Taiwan, allegedly ridiculed her nationality, by saying, “The US doesn’t recognize Taiwan as a country.”
A young mind once excited to start studies in the US was met with alleged torture and harassment from the officers. Three months after the incident, she returned to the country with an F-1 visa and was still detained at the border. However, she was let go after a few questions this time.
She hasn’t left the US since. Not even once in 4 years. She misses her family but the trauma still lingers in her mind.
The F-1 visa holder shared she is on medication for depression all because of one humiliating encounter at the airport.
This story is a dark reminder for everyone that the officials aren’t immune to being vile and racist. The student continues to live in fear in an alien country while missing her home that she might not visit till she completes her studies.
