I was just an ordinary and typical Malaysian boy who blocked his imagination and dreams light years away from his mind. But, I had changed my attitude until I found The Secret – The Law of Attraction. It really lifted up my imagination and inspired me a lot.
Before 2008, October, I had never thought of studying overseas just after my high school. I started to change my mind set while I saw my buddy, Ghoon Hoong had gone all out to fight for his dream to study in the United Kingdom. Then, I found out about the education system of the United States where it would be the paradise for me to discover deeply about my passion and a perfect platform for me to learn from multiracial people from all over the world. Furthermore, the most exciting thing is that the liberal arts education system provided there and I was glad that I found it out.
After months of thorough research and deep thinking, I had made up my mind and I told my parents that I wanted to go to the States for my undergraduate degree. I remember that my parents were surprised of my intention and felt sorry because they could not effort me to be studying there. I explained to them that I would be funded by the college or the university itself if I am admitted. I went to so many talks, exhibitions, education fairs and seminars (anything about studying in the United States.) – That’s how bad I wanted it. I found out that U.S. colleges/ universities will not accept someone merely because they got a good score on the SAT. It takes so much more like the application essays, teacher evaluation letters, school report transcripts as well as the short questions’ answers. My chance was slimmer which I was definitely applying as an international student who applies for financial aid as well. The chance of getting a place is like finding a specific needle in the Pacific Ocean. But, I knew everything it took and I used the knowledge to my advantage.
Not long ago, I met a couple of counselors who counsel students in applying to the top universities/ colleges in U.S., including Ivies. I introduced myself via email and didn’t really pay too much attention on it. A few months later, they replied me and I was really exuberant when I saw their email pop up in my inbox. It was really a gift for me. Later on, we met up and chatted about an hour long. I told them about my family financial status and I was so surprised and grateful that they promised in giving me comprehensive counseling for FREE! On that day I met them, I knew I had attracted them into my life because I had been thinking for it intensely for quite some period. I knew I had opened my path to my dream and they are the key people who would help me realizing it. It’s so COOL!
After few more months, we finalized together my shortlisted of schools that I am applying. In my heart, my first choice on my list was St. John’s College. I love it due to its unique philosophy of liberal arts education. I told everyone I talked to, new friends and old friends that I would be attending the St. John’s College. The response was almost ALWAYS the same: “Wow, isn’t U.S. universities expensive? Don’t you have to be very smart? Isn’t it hard to get in?” They would wish me good luck in a “you really need it” tone. I never let this sway me.
Before every day I slept, my e – calendar would remind me of flying to Annapolis on 2010, AUGUST 22 for St. John’s College 2010 FALL intake. I felt elated with power every time and slightly wet in my eyes. (because I could FEEL the JOY with so much intensity – how would I feel when I came to that day?)
When it came time for me to apply, I was more stressed out than I had ever been in my life, but I still continued to tell people that I would be going there. Sometimes a thought would creep in my head, saying: “What if I’ve been telling people that I am going there and then I don’t get in?” Every time I’d stop and say “No, I will not let myself think those thoughts and I would continue to imagine and feel the feeling of coming home and seeing the acceptance letter sitting on the table. I would also imagine the dramatic moment, when I would have my family and friends saying Good Byes when I am about to board the plane to Annapolis for St. John’s.
On 2010, AUGUST 22, I was in KLIA Airport waiting to board the plane to Annapolis. When I read back what I am writing today, I felt every feeling that I had felt previously in my mind – only magnified.
My parents, who have been supporting me even they did not really understand what I am pursuing, they are now here for me and waiting together with me for my plane to depart. My best buddies, who have been my spirit light to keep me enlighten and stepping on my spiritual feet, they are also here to give me Good Bye Hugs. Last but not least, even my lovely and helpful counselors are here to wish me luck. Seriously, without their support, no matter emotionally, physically, or spiritually, I would not reach where I am now by my own.
I feel so happy and grateful now that my dream has come true.
Guan Tyng
Written: (9/21/09, 0138 hr)
Edited/ Typed: (9/22/09, 0220 hr)
