SPM results – done. Interview – done. What else is there to anticipate other than the results of the interviews I have gone through and Unit Pengambilan Universiti (UPU) applications I have submitted? Probably nothing else.
I couldn’t believe that this particular chapter in my life–where everyone parts way after secondary school to attend different universities and meet new friends – is actually coming faster than ever. A few of my friends had already gone to university and I know this may sound exasperating but I cannot accept the fact that we are growing up. I have always had the chance to meet my friends at school after certain holidays but now; everyone is all grown up and becoming more mature than ever. I cannot hide the fact that I wish everything would slow down just a notch.
Recalling my last year at school in 2017, I remember having had a conversation with my friends about what I wanted to pursue, which university I wanted to go to while still hoping that I would have all my friends by my side. However, reality is a sugar-coated dream that has a bitter filling. Just like what John Green said: “Life isn’t a wish-granting factory”. I haven’t really thought about continuing my life as a university student without my close friends around but that’s what life teaches us do to – to step out of our comfort zone, embrace the uncertainty that we all claim are frightening.
Our parents, seniors and teachers often say that a university qualification is the main key in securing a stable, promising career. Youths have a tendency to strive to stand out among others, forgetting to enjoy their remaining time being young and carefree. True, a university degree is important but so is staying happy. This state of happiness cannot be overlooked and in my opinion, the relationship between family and friends with us are the main influences that affect our mood.
It doesn’t matter that the university you attend is near or far from home, family is top priority. If we have the time, then why not spend it by checking up on our family?
Sure we would be busy with assignments and all those stuff at university but a call just to ensure that they are doing fine wouldn’t hurt.
Although engaging in social interactions with our new friends at university is what we look forward to, we must bear in mind that despite the fresh start we still have our high school friends that deserve remembering. People come and go, and that is only a fragment of what life has to offer, but the best stays even if storms and thorns come in their way. I have also lost a few friends over the years – who doesn’t? But the great thing is that some came back regardless of what people think or say to them, and I am forever grateful to be blessed with such understanding and motivating friends.
If people were to ask me what my feelings are when dealing with these changes then I would say I am sad yet excited to see what is in store for me. To seek a better me in the future for my own, well let’s just say everyone hopes for the same. Sure moving onto a new phase in life is difficult despite how attached you are to a certain person or memory is in the past but given the chance to have a new start, where new memories can be made with other people, well why not give it a go?
To my friends who are already in university or have just got into one or are waiting for offers, stay safe no matter where you are. And if any one of you feels like the weight of the world is anchoring you down, I am always there to share the burden with you. Despite the distance between us, I can promise each and every one that whatever happens, whomever I befriended – I will never forget the bond we shared together through thick and thin.
To others out there who will be friends or best friends with any of my friends, please do take care of them. They can be a pain in the ass most of the time but trust me, deep inside they actually have a kind heart and all it takes to see it is just your sincerity in being friends with them.
And to my beloved friends – more precisely, my batch Gloriafelicis – have fun exploring outside your comfort zone but be safe at the same time. Things are way different than what we are used to back in school and like I said previously, it is sad to see how far we had gone together, seeing everyone growing up but I trust that you guys will be fine out there.
I would also like to express a huge amount of gratitude to my teachers from my primary and secondary schools for shaping me into who I am today. Honestly, my friends and I could not have done it without all of your sacrifices and support.
Not to forget my teacher who uncovered a passion I never knew I had. I shall be forever grateful to Puan Roziana for giving me the opportunity to write. My biggest appreciation also goes to those who helped me throughout my journey, be it directly or indirectly.