Growing up, I had the privilege of having access to quality education. Looking back now, I am thankful for all the good and bad experiences I had while in school and for all the blessings I have enjoyed so far in my life. It made life quite interesting.
Leaving home as a teenager to an entirely new environment in the quest for education was not new to me since I had attended a boarding school in a different state. But this time around, it was an entirely new world to me; I had to live alone, make decisions, and have no senior prefects or house mistress to wake me up in the morning or chase me to class. I will be independent; I will have the freedom I have always wanted; I can do anything I want without anyone cautioning me.
The first few weeks were difficult, from having to rush to the lecture theatres as early as 6.30am in order to get a good seat and not stand for hours during lectures, to having to listen to lectures from lecturers who were never audible, the workload was overwhelming, and having to endure the never-ending loud noise in the hostel even at night, to having some of my roommates who never cared about attending any lectures for reasons known to them. I had to make a decision whether to endure it all and just focus on my studies or choose not to attend any lectures at all. I had to discipline myself if I wanted to create the future I had envisioned for myself.
I had the privilege of attending schools that exposed me to people who came from different walks of life and taught me about acceptance and tolerance. I was able to see and learn more about the different tribes, cultures, and religions.
I was fortunate to have had roommates who were like sisters to me.
I met friends who shared the same goals, interests, and values. It was easier for me to make friends; I was not the quiet type; I was very outspoken for someone with a small stature like mine, so that made me quite popular, not just in my department but the whole faculty. My friends did make my stay in school fun and interesting; they didn't only inspire me, but they also made it easier for me to hold on to my values and navigate and balance my academic, social (all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy), and religious lives without anyone. I made lifelong friends in school鈥攆riends who have become family.
IMAGE IS MINE
Learning should not just be within the four walls of a classroom; hence, I had to find a place where I could develop and polish some of my skills with extracurricular activities since I was not the type to spend long hours reading (I easily get tired studying for long hours). I found out about ENACTUS (an international non-governmental organisation that engages the next generation of entrepreneurial leaders to improve the world using innovative business ideas) and had the opportunity to be part of a group of smart people who created new and innovative things. Being a member of ENACTUS gave me the opportunity to explore new places while travelling with other members. ENACTUS gave me a life-changing experience; it shaped my whole perspective on life, which I am grateful for. It taught me confidence; I can address anyone without fidgeting and communicate effectively because of ENACTUS.
My journey through school was not difficult in terms of finances and support from home. My mum is super supportive; she was a speed dial away. I never had any reason not to focus on my studies due to financial needs. I got a specified amount of stipends every month all through my stay in school, so it was easier for me to plan how I spent the money.
School taught me self-discipline, contentment, and the beauty of diversity. I was able to discover some of my hidden talents, build my confidence, and above all, it gave me sisters and brothers from different parents (friends). It has opened so many doors of opportunity for me. I am not where I hope to be yet, but I am working towards getting there.
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