Seumas' Life Through Words

Thursday, December 4, 2008

It is ok to plan for the future. Set your pathways, and create many many choices for yourself. It is undoubtedly a good move. But to be honest, it sure brings a headache, especially when you're in a junction where you can only choose one way to go.

I was caught in the twilight of my future for a rather long period than usual. And i can say it got me nausea.

It all started months ago, even before my trial exams. I was already planning to join my other cousins in Australia. And since my family are Permanent Residents, it was like one of the major choices, compared to UK and other parts of the world.

Dad and I went to an education fair and we checked out a couple of schools especially foundations in various colleges around Australia. The first question we would ask is "Are PRs allowed to do foundation?". But we would get a NO! After trying a few places, we got tired as the answers were all the same. We didnt bother asking the remaining ones.

I wanted to do Dentistry as it is my first choice followed by Medicine. And foundation would be easier as the exams are easier compared to Year 12 in Australia. But then the con for foundation is that you would have a much more limited choices of Universities. You are most likely to get into the Uni where the foundation programme is offered.

Later, there was a source that told us about UNSW offering foundation to PRs and Citizen on a condition that they have never been in any kind Australian Education System. We were unsure at first so we went to check it out. And it somehow turned out true. It was really nice to know that. But (there is always a but) the thing is UNSW has no Dentistry only Medicine.

Even though it was such. We thought it would be a good pathway. As I stand a better chance to Medicine through this. And if I'm really interested in Dentistry, I can change courses to Dentistry. And another thing is that there is only 3 Unis in Australia offering Dentistry as a undergrad programme. If I do manage to get into Medicine, it would be easier to branch off after the first year of medic if I'm really interested as they will see me as a First year medic student.

So, we went to apply, done all my procedures. Did this, did that. I was accepted. But later on there was a twist. They soon revoked my acceptance letter and said that there is a policy, 'Who so ever is a PR and doing Foundation and is aiming for medicine cannot be accepted'. I was devastated, I had already imagine myself as a student over there. YEAH, it was a pain in the arse!

So then, the other choice, was to opt back to the sure accepted first plan. Which was to do year 12 in a local high school. The pros were that I can do it for free and that I would have a wider choice of Unis. As for the cons, it is harder and I have to wear uniforms....hahahaha

Anyway, we checked out a few schools in Sydney - Cherrybrooke and also Pennant Hills - My dad was even in Australia checking them out as he visited my sister. And I was to live with my aunt. It was a rather easier process, as I could just sit back and relax, as a place is already there for me. Just do simple procedures. And the good things is that they cant say NO!

So I did my job by filling in the application with some good references and they were sent to the schools. But I didnt get a reply from either of them. But no worries, even if I get there late and I'm staying in the area, they are forced to accept me.

So it was the metal part that was taking a toll on me. I started to imagine my future and settle out the possible outcomes. It was rather gruesome. I was lethargic after every deep thinking. But then I came to a fast conclusion that I was soon to be a Year 12 student. I was so planning to be, but I still wanted to be a foundation student.

So days went by, weeks, and even months, and right after my SPM! I mean that afternoon after the last paper. I had a phone call. I picked it up, and the agent that was in charge of my application for the foundation for UNSW was very enthusiastic and joyful. She told me she had good news and I asked what was it. "UNSW finally abolished the policy and you can do the foundation. They are offering you a Medic Foundation!". She also asked if I was interested.

Hell yeah I was,
I discussed it with my parents and my my my, they were as happy as I am too. I guess due to the economy slow down, the Uni is trying to get any students they can get. And my case was brought up to the board of directors and they approved of me. It was joy! My fees were even waivered!

I even got a letter from UNSW asking me if I was still interested and explained the current situation. It was euphoric! I asked a few questions, got my things finalized and now, I'm off to UNSW!

I was really thankful, have to thank everyone in the process of making it possible and also GOD. He made it possible, it was like a miracle! Like my aunt said, "Better than striking lottery!" He made the impossible, possible - literally!

So now the thing to do is to change my flight ticket, that means I dont get to stay for Chinese New Year as class starts on the 23rd of January! And start packing which is a daunting process!

So come to think of it. No matter what you plan, how many pathways you make possible. It all comes down to fate and destiny. If you are destined to get it you get it. But to keep options open is still a very good thing!

But I have to say that this whole process, accepted than rejected than reaccepted again was like an epiphany for me. Now I'll appreciate this rare opportunity! And if I do get into Medic, that would be there cherry on top of the cream!

Wish me luck.....

SYNDEY, UNSW, HERE I COME

flying the Airbus A380 on the 17 of January 2008

do send me off guys :D

silenced at 12/04/2008 03:54:00 AM