Dear all,

The story below was written about a year ago when I was still in the process of pursuing my dream school. It was one of the toughest periods of my life; it was also the most fruitful moment as well, as I learned a lot as a member of this world and as an individual who wishes to strive for his own good.

In fact, I was pretty nervous when I wrote that. Yet, somewhere in my heart, I just feel that I can definitely do it. Now, I present my way of visualization via sharing my experience as if I have realized my dream.

P.S.
{Please note that the story below was not well written as my English wasn’t as good as my current level. (Anyway, I am still improving it now.) Those comments with this [bracket] are added as I am sharing this now.}

“REAL STORIES

I was just an ordinary and typical Malaysian boy who blocked his imagination and dreams light years away from his mind. But, I changed my attitude when 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 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 was 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 afford for 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 counsellors who counsel students in applying to the top universities/ colleges in U.S.. I introduced myself via email and didn’t really pay too much attention on it. A few months later, they replied 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 for about an hour. I told them about my families financial status and I was so surprised and grateful that they promised 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 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 realise it. It’s so COOL!

After few more months, we finalized together my shortlist 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, aren’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 them sway me.

Before every night I slept, my e – calendar would remind me of flying to Annapolis on 2010, AUGUST 22 [Though eventually I was enrolled in the Santa Fe campus on August 18] 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 I would feel when I came to that day? [When the day arrived, I felt that I was still dreaming. It was really weird but fulfilling.]

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 Goodbyes 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 [I went to Albuquerque, the nearest big city from Santa Fe].
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 enlightened, they are also here to give me Goodbye 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 on my own.

I feel so happy and grateful now that my dream has come true. I have never wanted anything more in my life until now. I have never KNOWN something more intensely. I KNOW that St. John’s College is the place for me, is my home in the States (I guess the Universe knows too.)

Guan Tyng

Best wishes to all of you.