Act without Expectations
Inspired by Daily Prompt: Expectation
While most couples expect to receive surprises from their loved ones on Valentine’s Day, I never truly expect that the my mailbox would surprise me with the Scholarship Letter of Offer on February 14! It is sure a great surprise! From now on, I am very much inspired to share about my NZAS milestones in order to inspire other aspiring scholars around the globe.
Coming from a financially challenged family, it has been a ‘ wish upon a star’ to study abroad with full scholarship but nothing is impossible for those who truly believe. Every morning, before I start my work at the office, I would always check international news for updates and current events. One morning, I came across a news article with New Zealand ASEAN Scholarship Award (NZAS) on it. I became interested (since ‘to be a full-time scholar abroad’ was part of my Vision & Goals for 2016). So, I challenged myself to apply for one. It was never easy. I never expected to make it to the end but my heart was at peace no matter what the result be. Thankfully, after several months the long wait is finally over. Indeed, it’s WORTH THE WAIT!!! I GOT THE SCHOLARSHIP! Glory to God. 🙂
TIMELINE OF APPLICATION
April 29: Submitted application
April 30: Received response to inquiry
June 03: Passed the initial screening
June 04: Moved forward to the next stage
July 11: Took online assessment
August 8: Passed online assessment stage
August 11: Schedule of panel interview
August 12: Submitted supporting documents
August 24: Took the interview
September 23: Shortlisting Outcome (RC)
December 19: Scholarship Team notification
January 31: University notification
February 2: Scholarship Team notification (PC)
February 10: New Zealand Scholarship Letter of Offer
Nothing comes easy. One thing for sure, it will teach you character (if you recognize it)–patience. Expect that there are many applicants–many are called, but few are chosen. What brought me here are: Prayer and constant supplication, Planning, Goal-setting, and Research. I prepared and set specific targets to achieve it step by step. Throughout the process of waiting, I’ve learned many lessons. My character while waiting has been strengthened and I am so glad that I have finally received the Scholarship offer the day I expected the least. When it seems to be hopeless, pray for patience, peace and joy. Keep moving, DON’T GIVE UP. (Jer. 29:11)
*I hope to help other aspiring NZAS scholars by sharing my personal experiences on my NZAS journey. ^_^ Everybody has a story.