“Focus on belonging, not prestige. “

The greatest piece of advice I could give anyone is that the perfect university for you is more than its name. It is the summation of your passions, your potential, and your path in life.

When I was younger, I would sit by my father as he engaged in his favourite hands-on activities. I distinctly remember how my mind would fill to the exclusion of all else, thinking, ‘How can connecting two to three wires make the whole room light up?’

My curiosity and inquisitiveness were effervescent, and from then on, I just knew what I wanted to pursue in my life. My major is now cybersecurity, and Pennsylvania State University, where I pursue it, feels like exactly where I am meant to be.

Origins and Aspirations

I am originally from Singapore, where I attended Global Indian International School (GIIS) throughout middle and high school. During my school life, I dabbled in an array of extracurriculars, including Model United Nations and debating, community service, and blood donations at the Red Cross. Furthermore, I was always deeply committed to sport, participating in football, track and field, and even representing Singapore’s national cricket team for the Under-19s ICC World Cup.

Despite loving my life back home, with my family and friends, I chose to venture abroad to broaden my horizons and immerse myself in a new environment. Compared to a small city like Singapore, the United States is vastly different, and I found myself rediscovering what it means to be independent, to be courageous, and to be me.

Pennsylvania State was the ideal choice for me because of its well-rounded options that authentically catered to my interests. As one of the few universities that offered cybersecurity as a major, it made its way to the top of my list. Moreover, as a largely sport-centred university, it allowed me to continue my love for athletics. I am currently a part of the Thumbell Student Association and have recently won the National Championship, as well as the Collegiate Cricket League (CCL). This helps me keep my life balanced, as I juggle pursuing my courses, my part-time job, my extracurriculars, and my social life. I do truly feel like over here, I can have it all. 

Applications and Essays

 As an international student, I faced the ‘problem of plenty’ as I thoroughly researched the numerous universities on offer abroad. I organised my options on an Excel document early on and meticulously noted the requirements for each, considering finances and living expenses. As I had taken most of my assessments during the pandemic, I was unable to complete the SATs, but this was not a major prerequisite for many universities. I had a cumulative GPA of 3.40 and a 140/160 for the DET (Duolingo English Test). Supplementing these scores, I had letters of recommendation from my school principal and my academic coordinator. Currently, my cost-of-living ranges from 60-70K USD, including tuition and accommodation. Though I do not have any financial aid, I believe there are options available on the university’s website, with a separate application form.

 I applied for Penn State, as well as the University of Toronto and British Columbia, over a 10-month process. This process is highly rigorous, and I recommend that you begin as early as possible. Apart from school grades and stats, recognize that personal essays are highly significant. I fuelled these introspective statements by reflecting on my personal growth and passions, and emphasising that my father was my primary inspiration. Now, I strongly encourage all students to understand that their achievements are just dot points on a paper. This may hurt to hear, but they are replaceable. Instead, universities want you, the organic, authentic character that hides behind a banner of ticks and trophies.

Aside from the university process, the student visa application consisted of a form and an interview, where I was asked about my future plans, including further studies, career pathways, and my intentions to stay in the United States. As I plan on working overseas, preferably in Singapore, and later continuing my education with a Master’s, I was able to secure a visa easily and received it within a week.

Life at University

 Another aspect of Penn State that I highly appreciate is its welcoming nature and inclusivity. I understand firsthand that traveling halfway across the world alone is extremely daunting, especially with the expectations of university being the best time of your life. But Penn State’s organisation of numerous expeditions, get-togethers, and even kayaking, helped me foster new connections, mesh with groups of people, and find my community. It helped that there is a diverse range of ethnic groups here, as sometimes finding those who share the same culture can make a place feel more like home. Currently, I fundraise for the Thumbell Student Association by shovelling snow, arranging events, and welcoming new students. Activities like these have bolstered my extroversion, helping me mesh well with students from students all over the world. In my experience, everyone is in the same boat and hopes not to be alone during their educational journey. Remembering that helped me dilute my fear of judgment and represent myself without any filters.

I recognise that in high school, everyone dreams of the day they can leave for university and be independent. But the weight of constantly having to nudge yourself to fulfill your commitments, act responsibly, and depend on yourself can be stressful. This is why it is crucial to organise your time well early on, avoid an overly hectic schedule for the first term or two, and balance your work with social activities. I am currently a part-time worker for the university’s Information Technology department, as international students are only allowed to work on campus, and I can handle the pressure with my other commitments.

Advice and Recommendations

To end on a thoughtful note, do not be convinced by a fancy institution for your perfect university. Consider the majors involved, the extracurriculars offered, and the social culture. It should align with your characteristics, your dreams for the future, and the type of lifestyle you lead. I see people seek to transfer out of Penn State, and it is understandable. Yet, I know that I will always be content with my decision.